FOCUS SCRIPTURE: Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. ~ Hebrews 13:2
SUMMARY: In the sermon Embracing the Stranger, we are reminded of our calling as the body of Christ to embrace others with God’s love. The first step in this journey is to Embrace the Stranger, which begins with God embracing us. In Genesis 18:1-5, God appears to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre, setting the example of how we should extend hospitality and love, even to those who are spiritually distant. Hebrews 13:1-2 encourages believers to not forget to entertain strangers, as showing kindness to others is a reflection of God’s love. God’s unconditional love for us, despite our status as strangers to Him, invites us to do the same for others.
- Embrace the Stranger
- It is about welcoming those who are distant or unfamiliar, as God first welcomed us into His family. This starts with us being embraced by God, as shown in Genesis 18:1-5.
- Wrestle with the Stranger
- This wrestling represents the uncertainty and difficulty of trusting God fully, but it is through surrendering that we grow in faith.
- In Genesis 32:22-32, Jacob’s wrestling with the angel illustrates the internal struggle we face between faith and our current circumstances.
- Befriend the Stranger
- Moving from doubt to obedience, as shown in John 15:14, we are called to be friends of God through obedience.
- In Luke 1:26-38, Mary exemplifies this by trusting and obeying God’s message, leading to her being used for His divine purpose.
Supporting Scripture(s): Genesis 18:1-5; Genesis 32:22-32; John 15:14; Luke 1:26-38; Romans 5:8
Affirmation: I Welcome Others with God’s Love and Kindness