The Purpose of our Visitation Program

1.   What does it mean to visit?

      a.   From the Greek episkeptomai (Strong’s #1980), to inspect, look out, relieve [cf episkopos - (Strong’s #1985) = bishop, overseer]

            i.   Luke 1:67-80 – of John the Baptist and Jesus

            ii.  Acts 6:3 – “look ye out” among yourselves

            iii. Acts 7:23

            iv. Acts 15:36

      b.   True visitation requires effort and willingness to help.

2.   Why should I visit?

      a.   I need to visit for the sake of the BRETHREN:

            i.   Sick – Matthew 25:34-36

            ii.  Those in spiritual NEGLECT

                  (1) Galatians 6:1-2

                  (2) Hebrews 3:12 - 4:11

            iii. Those needing ENCOURAGEMENT – Hebrews 12:12-17

            iv. Visiting builds relationships & strengthens – Ecc 4:9-12

      b.   I need to visit for the sake of our VISITORS:

      c.   I need to visit for MY benefit:

            i.   HEAD opener

                  (1) my eyes are opened to others’ needs, especially brethren

                  (2) my ears are opened to others needs

                  (3) my mouth is opened to lift another’s spirits

                  (4) my eyes are opened to my own blessings

            ii.  HEART opener – 1 John 3:17-18

            iii. HEAVEN opener: Matthew 26:31-40

                  (1) Matthew 25:31-40

                  (2) James 2:14-26