S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Hospitality can be defined as "the quality or disposition of receiving and treating guests and strangers in a warm, friendly, generous way." In the New Testament, the Greek word translated "hospita...

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July 01 2013 • 1 response • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

What does the Bible say about hospitality?

The Bible consistently portrays hospitality as a core Christian duty and spiritual practice, not a mere social custom. It is an expression of love for God and others, explicitly commanded in both the Old and New Testaments, especially toward strangers, the needy, and fellow believers.

The New Testament Greek word for hospitality, philoxenia, literally means "love of strangers". This is a central theme, as commanded in Hebrews 13:2: "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares".

Biblical hospitality is distinct from modern "entertaining," which can focus on impressing guests. Genuine hospitality is about selfless service, creating a welcoming space where people feel valued and cared for, regardless of the host's personal comfort or the level of elaboration of the provisions.

The Book of Acts in Its Graeco-Roman Setting states: "What is known of such facilities in the literature presents a rather unhappy picture. The available literary and archaeological sources generally witness to dilapidated and unclean facilities, virtually non-existent furnishings, bed-bugs, poor quality food and drink, untrustworthy proprietors and staff, shady clientele, and generally loose morals." Understandably, a morally upright traveller would avoid staying at such inns whenever possible.

When we think of those conditions, it is not surprising that the Scriptures repeatedly exhort Christians to extend hospitality to others. Paul urged Christians in Rome: "Share with the holy ones according to their needs. Follow the course of hospitality." (Romans 12:13) He reminded the Jewish Christians: "Do not forget hospitality, for through it some, unknown to themselves, entertained angels." (Hebrews 13:2) Peter exhorted his fellow worshipers to "be hospitable to one another without grumbling."​—1 Peter 4:9.

Scholar Frederick F. Bruce observes: "These friends and co-workers, hosts and hostesses, had no other motive in being so helpful than love of Paul and love of the Master whom he served. They knew that in serving the one, they were serving the other." This is an excellent motive for being hospitable.

Conclusion:

The Bible teaches that hospitality is a practical, sacrificial, and joyous way of life that reflects God's welcoming nature and creates opportunities to share the love and truth of the Gospel. 

The Shunammite woman proactively built a room for the prophet Elisha, providing ongoing shelter and care, which led to the blessing of a son (2 Kings 4:8-17).

The Good Samaritan demonstrated hospitality by caring for a wounded stranger —an enemy in his culture —covering his costs and ensuring his safety (Luke 10:30–37).

A Reflection of God's Welcome: Believers are called to welcome others just as God, in Christ, has welcomed them (Romans 15:7). God, as the ultimate host, provided for humanity's needs and brought people into a relationship with Himself.

A Command, Not an Option: Scripture is clear that hospitality is a required action. Paul tells the Romans to "Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality" (Romans 12:13), and Peter instructs, "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling" (1 Peter 4:9).

2 days ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report