**we apologize for some audio issues with the Pastor's microphone today**
Chances are, the people whom you feel closest to are the people who make you feel like you matter, that you are important, and that they want to be with you. This feeling of openness and welcome keeps you coming back for more. This is why the Bible speaks numerous times about the importance of welcoming each other as a crucial piece of church cohesion, yet it is often not talked about. On Sunday, we will be opening wide the front door in “Do You Want to Have Good Friends? Welcome Them” – part of our Strengthening Church Relationships Series.
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MESSAGE STUDY NOTES
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WARM UP
While growing up, did your home feel like it had a closed door or an open door to strangers? Why?
SCRIPTURES USED
Romans 12:12, 16:16; I Corinthians 16:20; II Corinthians 13:12; I Thessalonians 5:26; I Peter 4:9, 5:14; Hebrews 13:2
MESSAGE POINTS
1. Greet people
2. In love
Our idols: Pride, Belongings, Time, Comfort
FRIENDSHIP COVENANT: “I Will Welcome You Enthusiastically”
GENERAL QUESTIONS
1. Out of 5 stars (5 being highest), how would you rank your greeting effort on a Sunday morning? Why?
2. Which of the four idols listed is your biggest barrier to being more hospitable?
APPLICATION QUESTION
What do you think God would have to change in you in order to practice greeting and hospitality more?
MENTORING QUESTION
If Christians practiced greeting and hospitality more, what effects do you think this would have on the church?
