Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Importance Welcoming, in the biblical context, refers to the act of receiving others with kindness, hospitality, and love. It is a fundamental aspect of Christian living, reflecting the love and acceptance that God extends to humanity. The practice of welcoming is deeply rooted in the teachings of both the Old and New Testaments, emphasizing the importance of community, fellowship, and the extension of grace to others. Old Testament Context The concept of welcoming is evident in the Old Testament through the practice of hospitality. Abraham's reception of the three visitors in Genesis 18:1-8 is a notable example, where he eagerly provides food and rest for his guests. This act of hospitality is later commended in the New Testament as an example of faith and righteousness (Hebrews 13:2). The Law also instructed the Israelites to welcome strangers and foreigners, reminding them of their own experience as strangers in Egypt. Leviticus 19:34 states, "The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the LORD your God." New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, welcoming is elevated as a hallmark of Christian discipleship. Jesus Himself modeled this behavior, often dining with tax collectors and sinners, demonstrating that the kingdom of God is open to all who seek it. In Matthew 25:35, Jesus highlights the importance of welcoming others as a reflection of serving Him: "For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in." The Apostle Paul also emphasizes the importance of welcoming one another in the body of Christ. In Romans 15:7, he writes, "Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring glory to God." This acceptance is not merely a passive tolerance but an active embrace of others, fostering unity and love within the church. Practical Application Welcoming others is a practical expression of Christian love and is encouraged throughout the New Testament. Hebrews 13:2 advises, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." This verse underscores the spiritual significance and potential blessings of welcoming others. The early church exemplified this practice, as seen in Acts 2:46-47, where believers met together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. This spirit of welcoming and community contributed to the growth and strength of the early Christian movement. Challenges and Encouragement While welcoming others can sometimes be challenging, especially in a diverse and divided world, Christians are called to rise above societal barriers and extend love to all. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) serves as a powerful reminder that true neighborly love transcends ethnic, cultural, and religious boundaries. In practicing welcoming, believers are encouraged to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength, remembering that their actions reflect the love of Christ to a watching world. As 1 Peter 4:9 exhorts, "Show hospitality to one another without grumbling." Conclusion The biblical mandate to welcome others is a profound expression of God's love and grace. It is an essential aspect of Christian discipleship, fostering unity, community, and the spread of the Gospel. Through welcoming, believers participate in the divine mission of reconciliation and demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel in their lives. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Welcome.Greek 1926. epidechomai -- to accept as true, to receive besides ... 1926 (from 1909 , ", fitting" and 1325, " welcome") -- properly, receive (welcome) , emphasizing what naturally the welcoming (note the prefix , ). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1926.htm - 7k 1209. dechomai -- to receive 588. apodechomai -- to accept gladly, welcome 5264. hupodechomai -- to receive under one's roof, to receive as a ... 594. apodoche -- acceptance, approval Library Simeon's Swan-Song Meditations of the Blessed State of the Regenerate Man after Death ... With the Entry of Angela's Great Picture "The Coming of Christ" ... The Springs of Social Life. The Yoke of Jesus. The Right to Privacy He Essays to Speak of the Well-Nigh Divine Endowments of Origen in ... Early Battles Felicitous Phrases Letter viii. To Demophilus, Therapeutes. About Minding Ones Own ... Thesaurus Welcoming (2 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Welcome. Multi-Version Concordance Welcoming (2 Occurrences). Luke 9:11 But the people ... /w/welcoming.htm - 7k Welded (1 Occurrence) Welcomes (5 Occurrences) Resources Is Celebrate Recovery a biblically sound program? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the right hand of fellowship (Galatians 2:9)? | GotQuestions.org What is biblical homemaking? | GotQuestions.org Welcoming: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Welcoming (2 Occurrences)Luke 9:11 Acts 28:30 Subtopics Related Terms |
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