Denominational differences are hindrances to the oneness of believers. Breaking down this wall can happen when believers go out of their way to greet and fellowship with other diverse believers. When Jesus Christ taught us to love in Matt 5, he said, ‘If you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?’ Matthew 5:47 NIV

Today, we will discuss what greeting and hosting do not entail in breaking down denominational barriers. This discussion is to avoid misunderstandings and misconceptions. In Romans 16, after Apostle Paul asked the believers in Rome to greet one another, he urged them to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in their way that are contrary to the teaching they have learned (Romans 16:17). This is because it is inevitable that some people take advantage of the concept of greeting for their selfish interest. So, what is greeting and hosting not?

1. Greeting is not a strategy to convert or recruit members from other denominations to ours. It is not a way of ‘winning’ people to our ministries or denomination. It should be to become familiar with other believers and to fellowship with them.

2. It is not about compromising our convictions or changing our doctrines to that of others. It is about choosing to love, accept, and fellowship with other believers who do not belong to our denominations.

3. Greeting and visiting other believers is not an opportunity to debate and argue on doctrines and theologies. Instead, it is a platform to discuss Jesus Christ, the subject of our faith.

Greeting and hosting should be rooted in genuine love and desire to be one with other believers. The Bible says: “Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.” Romans 15:7

Author: ceiadmin