Romans 15:7 (KJV) “Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.”
The New Living Translation says it this way: “We should accept one another, just like Christ has accepted you.” Aren’t you glad you have been accepted into the Beloved? Other translations say, “Welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you.” As a matter of fact, the Amplified uses both words, “welcome” and “receive.”
We are supposed to welcome, receive, and accept people. Now, don’t let anyone misuse this Scripture. The Word is not talking about accepting sin and sinful practices, but it is talking about accepting every believer where they are and loving them.
One reason this was written is because there was a Jewish church and a Gentile church, and they often did not mix because of past religious traditions. Remember, the Word says, “There is neither Greek nor Jew, neither male nor female in Christ.” Our identity is found in Him, and we need to receive each other based on that identity of being “in Christ” and no other identity.
Yes, we are different and have had different life experiences, but we are now in Christ; and as far as the church is supposed to operate, we are to receive, welcome, and accept one another. This is another form of the love of God at work.
When we walk in this, just as Christ received and welcomed us into the Body, and we receive others, it brings glory to God. Only God can do such a thing. How He can take people of all different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences and bring them into one Body, and it functions—that is a miracle!
When you receive and welcome someone, it brings the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, and there (unity, harmonizing, like a symphony) is where the Lord can command His blessing.
Let us make sure we are receiving, welcoming, and accepting one another in the Body of Christ.