Hospitality and the Good News of Jesus
Christian hospitalityis a friendly and generous reception of others so they will meet Jesus.
In 1 Timothy 5:10, we see that a Christian woman who is being considered for continual help from the church must have demonstrated “…a reputation for good works… has shown hospitality, has washed the feet of the saints, has cared for the afflicted, and has devoted herself to every good work.”
The men considered to oversee the spiritual welfare of the church must be,“…hospitable, able to teach…” (1 Timothy 3:2)
Hospitality is to mark every believer in Christ. Luke 14:13 “But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind…”
Recently we asked MCC to give us some feedback about some areas of Sunday Gathering ministry and hospitality. We learned 70% prefer the music to be blended with some hymns scattered in frequently. And 70% would like to have a time of hospitality with refreshments on Sunday at the Gathering.
Some of the comments included:
- Let’s be concerned about the lost and welcoming new people.
- However, let’s not become a watered-down church/ministry. (Refreshments served on Sunday were seen by several people to be one step in a decline of Biblical ministry)
- If you provide the double blended vanilla Frappuccino with cool whip, I will be there. (This is my favorite coffee drink, so I resonate with this one)
- This will give me a good chance to have Gospel conversations. (My favorite response)
Hospitality reflects the Good News of Jesus! Let’s pray to live a life of hospitality at the Gatherings on Sunday and as a way of life where God places each of us. How hospitable are we willing to be for the sake of the Good News of Jesus? Are we having people to our homes so we can show them authentic hospitality? How are you using hospitality to spread the Good News of Jesus?
