Presence Matters
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor Léonce B. Crump Jr. discusses the importance of biblical hospitality in his sermon "Presence Matters" as part of the "Unreasonable Hospitality" series. He emphasizes how showing hospitality can impact guests and the Church positively, drawing from biblical teachings. Crump uses personal experiences and scriptures to challenge listeners to prioritize hospitality, despite conflicting cultural norms. He calls for the congregation to embrace a culture of hospitality by being present, early to church, and unreasonably welcoming to all, believing it can transform lives and draw more people to faith.
Discussion Questions 💬
How do you think the lack of hospitality affected the pastor and his wife's experience when they visited a church in Nashville?
Crump shared a personal experience in which they were deeply disappointed by the lack of hospitality at a church in Nashville.
Can you recall a time when someone's hospitality or lack thereof impacted your experience? How did that make you feel?
In what ways can biblical hospitality impact both guests and the church as a whole?
Crump stated that being a good host is essential to following Jesus' example and creates a positive perception of the church.
How can you intentionally practice biblical hospitality in your own life and within your church community?
Why is it important to be early for church as a form of hospitality?
Crump compared arriving late to church to arriving late to a party, making guests feel excluded and unwelcome.
What are some practical steps you can take to ensure you are early for church and other gatherings to create a hospitable environment?
How can being part of a life-giving church have an impact on our priorities and our commitment to hospitality?
Crump emphasized the need to prioritize prayer, scripture, and creating hospitable environments over personal accomplishments and a 'slow Sunday.'
What are some ways you can set aside time and energy to commit to a life-giving church and prioritize hospitality?
How does Hebrews 10:24-25 relate to the importance of hospitality and the spiritual discipline of gathering regularly with other believers?
Crump referenced Hebrews 10:24-25, which encourages believers to motivate one another to acts of love and good works and not to neglect meeting together.
What are some practical ways you can encourage others within your church community and ensure you are regularly meeting together?
Prayer 🙏
Start by asking for any personal prayer requests from the group members.
Ask God to help us embody the culture of 'Unreasonable Hospitality' in our daily lives.
Pray for open hearts to show hospitality to everyone we encounter, making them feel welcomed and valued.
