Turning Warmth into Fellowship

In James 2, James confronted Christians with the truth about their unjust ways. They were in the habit of giving a warm welcome to visitors who appeared very rich, and of kicking to the side visitors who appeared impoverished. They had forgotten that a person’s earthly status does not change God’s desire to save them, nor does it diminish their value in His sight. Today, many religious organizations have gotten very good at giving a warm welcome to everyone, which is good, but not if the desire for warmth comes at the cost of the truth of God’s message.

James did not intend for Christians to overlook sins that need to be addressed, just to make people feel good. Instead, James encouraged the Christians to “speak and act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty” (James 2:12). The law of liberty is not concerned with a person’s earthly status as much as it is their fellowship with God, which is restored and maintained as they respond obediently to His Word (James 1:21-25; 2:14-26).

Scriptures like Romans 12:18 teach Christians that they are not out for blood. Christians do not crave conflict. Instead, they hope to make peace with all, especially regarding their relationship to God. However, even Jesus announced that the gospel, though intended to provide eternal life, will ultimately divide families and turn friends into enemies because not all will obey (Matt. 10:34; John 12:50).

Christians are responsible for approaching all people with the same regard for their souls. No person’s earthly riches or poverty changes the value of their soul or their need for salvation. The church welcomes visitors warmly always. Whether true fellowship is born of that kind greeting depends on every person’s response to God’s Word. Give a warm greeting, followed by the truth that invites every person into fellowship through the blood of Christ.