The ideal congregation is receptive to visitors and outsiders. A classic example of failure in being receptive to outsiders is recorded in Galatians 2:11-14. It says, “But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. For prior to the coming of certain men from James, he used to eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he began to withdraw and hold himself aloof, rearing the party of the circumcision. The rest of the Jews joined him in hypocrisy, with the result that even Barnabas was carried away by their hypocrisy. But when I saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in the presence of all, “If you, being a Jew, live like the Gentiles and not like the Jews, how is it that you compel the Gentiles to live like Jews?”” Paul withstood Peter to the face because he withdrew and separated himself from those who differed ethnically. Fear motivated Peter to so conduct himself and his example led others to follow in his steps. A personal error began to affect others in the congregation.
Our receptivity to outsiders, whether they differ ethnically or in some other meaningful manner, will be enhanced as friendliness is the norm rather than the exception. A spirit of friendliness should be extended from each member to each and every individual who graces our assemblies with their presence and support. As we set various prejudices aside (Acts 10:34-35), our receptivity to outsiders will be further developed. Additionally, may we realize the value in actively seeking to establish relationships beyond the bounds of clannishness and personal cliques so that we create multiple opportunities to broaden our field of acquaintances and friends, thereby opening ourselves to growth in our reception of outsiders. May we value each soul as highly as our Lord who freely died for all.
The ideal membership sets an example for others in Christian living. The apostle Paul exhorted the evangelist Timothy to “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers…” (1 Tim. 4:12a). Paul’s exhortation also detailed general and specific areas wherein our example should be developed, including our speech, manner of life, love, spirit, faith, and purity (1 Tim. 4:12b). Since our Lord is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34-35), each individual Christian must strive to follow the Pauline exhortation to which reference was made above.
As we set an example for others in Christian living, we should influence our families unto greater and better service to God (Eph. 6:1-4). The impact of such successful efforts may not be measured except in eternity. Included in our efforts to spiritually impact our families should be wise and timely efforts to lead our spouse to be a faithful Christian. Though difficult, the potential good is certainly worth our investment of time, energy, and concern. Additionally, may we also gain the courage to influence other Christians to improve their service in the kingdom of God (1 Cor. 11:1). By efforts such as these we may perhaps become a Nehemiah in our own time!
