The Powerful Church - Hospitality

Hospital - ity

Defined - Friendly, generous, receptive entertainment of visitors, guests, and strangers

Patti went to hospital to pray for man dying.

Man dying went to church.

He ministered to an atheist.

Powerful Churches Do Life Together

Acts 2:42 NKJV

And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Acts 2:46–47 NKJV

So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

What were they doing? Gathering in the homes doing life together.

Rob’s Rules About Hospitality

We never know what someone is going through. Err on the side of grace. Everyone has an invisible sign around their neck that says make me feel important.

We want to give people a reason to stay. If they stay long enough, they’ll grow to be more like Christ.

Say something sincerely affirming. It costs nothing yet means the world. We have 10 minutes to make a first impression.

Be grateful people came to visit. For first 10 minutes pretend we don’t know anyone but the new person. Immediately after the meeting ends, go to the new person.

New people are usually last in and first out.

GYM - man who came to church.

Jesus Moved With Compassion

When Jesus saw the crowds, he was moved with compassion - Matt 9:36

I feel compassion for those who remained and have nothing - Matt 15:32

Jesus felt compassion for the sick and healed their sick - Matt 14:14

Moved with compassion, He touched their eyes - Matt 20:34

We have a high priest who can sympathize with our weakness - Heb 4:15

What was the condition of people then? Weary, scattered and without a shepherd.

What is the condition of people today? They need Jesus.

Powerful Churches Are Motivated By Love

Known by their love - John 13:35

Let brotherly love continue - Hebrews 13:1-2

Given to hospitality - Romans 12:13

Empathetic with the hurt and wounded - Matthew 12:20

What are true disciples known for? Expressing God's love