Brain Storming for a Church Without Borders |
My church, Charis Methodist Church is currently undergoing extensive renovations. When completed we aspire to be an 'Attractive Community' to our neighbours and become a church without borders. We could learn from St John's short third epistle to his friend, Gaius. This letter is about relationships within and without the church, amongst Christians and neighbours.
The action, described in this letter is of welcome and hospitality. It is not just a principle or theory but a practice and skill; the ability to make a stranger feel welcomed and well looked after.
'We therefore ought to show hospitality..' 3 John 1:8
Hospitality contributed to the success of the early church. The early church grew by the witness and preaching itinerant believers, early missionaries going about to various cities and villages preaching and witnessing in order to spread the Christian message. These itinerant preachers were poor and could ill afford to stay in hotels and inns. They were dependent on the believers in cities to welcome them into their own homes and provide free board and lodging.
What is Christian Hospitality? It is that action of being welcoming and helpful to friends and even strangers, lending assistance in practical ways. John wrote,
'Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you.' 3 John 1:5
Welcoming strangers. When we think of hospitality, we picture having family and friends over for a pleasant meal. Or we think of the ‘hospitality industry’ of hotels and restaurants which are open to strangers so long as they can pay. But Churches could give shelter and support to the homeless, poor and needy - people who cannot return the favour.
“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers for by doing so some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” Hebrews 13:2
Share your meal with others. The church father Jerome challenged the medieval church to “let poor men and strangers be acquainted with your modest table, and with them Christ shall be your guest” He warned that Christian leaders may be likely to entertain only the powerful and the rich but Jesus advocated the opposite.
'Then Jesus said to his host, "When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives or your rich neighbours; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind and you will be blessed." Luke 14:12-14
Give generously to those in need. It was this early and continuing teaching in the New Testament which sparked off the generosity in Christians which then established many charitable organisations that serve the poor and needy. Many institutions were started simply at first without much resources, by persons who were led by God and who were conscience- stricken to heed the call to share what little or plenty they have with people in need.
'Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.' Romans 12:13