Welcome One Another
The welcome we have in Christ creates a culture of welcoming others for the glory of God.
“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (Romans 15:7).
Romans 15:7 moves from gospel doctrine to gospel culture. Because Christ has welcomed us (gospel doctrine), we now welcome one another (gospel culture).
Grace received becomes grace extended. Peace made with God becomes peace practiced among one another. The vertical reconciliation we enjoy with the Father reshapes our horizontal relationships with people around us.
Christian community is not built on shared preferences, similar personalities, or cultural comfort. It is built on a shared welcome. Every one of us came in the same way—by grace alone. And that levels us. Grace leaves us no room to boast except in Christ alone.
When we remember how Christ welcomed us, impatience begins to lose its grip, coldness thaws, and distance narrows. We become a people who reflect the heart of the One who saved us, and we seek to remove barriers that would prevent others from experiencing the welcome of Jesus.
When we consider the magnitude of the welcome of Jesus for us, we can’t help but make room for others. Therefore, brothers and sisters, welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”