The Welcome Test

Growing up, I never liked group projects.
It wasn’t because I didn’t like people—it’s just that we all had different ideas about how things should be done. I was the "get-it-done-early" kid. Someone else wanted to wing it last minute. Another thought the idea needed more glitter. And let’s be honest… someone always didn’t show up.

Looking back, it wasn’t the work that made it hard. It was the differences.

Now fast forward to church life—and it’s not that different.

We often expect disagreement from the world, but what hits harder is when we don’t see eye to eye with other believers. Paul addresses that exact tension in Romans 14:1 (MSG): “Welcome with open arms fellow believers who don’t see things the way you do.”

Notice who he’s talking about—fellow believers.
That means: people who love Jesus, read the Bible, and still disagree with you.

And the instruction? Welcome them anyway.

Here’s how we can practice the spiritual posture Paul is calling us to:

1. Open Arms = Open Hearts

You can’t welcome someone with crossed arms. Loving other believers—even the ones who think differently—is part of our spiritual maturity.
Action Step: Instead of avoiding or judging, start a conversation. Ask, “Can you help me understand where you’re coming from?”

2. Open Arms = Open Ears

Paul warns against “jumping all over” people when they don’t agree with us. Listening doesn’t mean you’re compromising—it means you value the person more than your point.
Try This: Next time a fellow believer expresses something different, don’t interrupt or try to “fix” it. Just listen fully.

3. Open Arms = Less Judging, More Reflecting

Judgment is the shortcut. Reflection is the real work. Instead of assuming others are wrong, ask why their view challenges you.
Heart Check: What is this disagreement bringing up in me? Is it pride? Fear? Control? Let God speak into that.

4. Open Arms = Everyone at the Table

Church isn’t a club for the spiritually identical. It’s a family. Families don’t agree on everything—but they still eat together.
Practice This: Invite someone different from you (age, background, belief) to sit with you, serve with you, or share a meal with you.

Disagreeing with other believers doesn’t make you less spiritual.
How you handle that disagreement, that’s what shows your spiritual depth.

Make It Personal:

• Who have I kept at arm’s length because of a difference in opinion?

• Have I valued my position more than the person?

• What would “open arms” look like in my life this week?

Prayer:
Jesus, help me love like You do. I confess that sometimes I choose pride over peace, and comfort over connection. Teach me how to live with open arms—especially toward fellow believers who see things differently. May my posture reflect grace, not judgment. Unity, not division. Help me welcome others the way You welcomed me. Amen.

What’s one way you can practice open arms this week? Let me know below.