As followers of Christ, we must show love to those around us in many ways. One way to show the love of Jesus is by practicing biblical hospitality. What is Biblical hospitality and how do I practice it?? you might ask. Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. This will give you the basics Biblical hospitality along with some resources you can dive into and learn more. It’s also worth noting that some personality types have more difficulty with the idea of hospitality, but don’t worry! It’s not just about having people at your home all the time.
Verses about hospitality
What does the Bible say about hospitality? There are actually several verses in the Bible that talk about hospitality. In fact, it is a commandment in the Bible to be hospitable (Romans 12:13 NIV). We tend to be so busy with our own lives that we are unwilling to step out of our comfort zone to think about how we can be hospitable. Even if we wanted to, we don’t have time! However, like us simplify our scheduleswe will have more margin in our lives. More time to live out our faith. As the next few verses remind us, by serving others it is as if we are serving Jesus directly, or perhaps we are entertaining angels!
“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing so some have received angels unexpectedly.” Hebrews 13:2 ESV
‘For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.” Then they also will answer and say, “Lord, when did we see you hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and not serve you?” Then he will answer them and say, ‘Truly I say to you, as you did it not to one of the least of these, neither did you do it to me.'” Matthew 25:42-45
The next few hospitality Scripture remind us to do good to everyone, especially other Christians. We are to love and serve without complaining. Wouldn’t you like to have the reputation of the woman of 1 Timothy?
“Therefore, if we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.” Galatians 6:10
“Show hospitality to each other without grumbling.” 1 Peter 4:9
“and having a reputation for good works: if she has reared children, shown hospitality, washed the feet of the saints, cared for the afflicted, and devoted herself to every good work.” 1 Timothy 5:10
Biblical definition of hospitality
Whatever you want to call it Christian hospitality or Biblical hospitality, there is no exact definition given in the Bible. However, we can conclude what it is based on what we read in the Bible. In short, biblical hospitality is welcoming others, Christian or non-Christian, into our home or sometimes “welcoming” them to show the love of Jesus. We treat friends and strangers alike, with Christ at the center.
Hospitality in the Bible
The art of hospitality has diminished in our culture, but in Biblical times hospitality was incredibly important in the culture. But as we have already seen, Christians are commanded to be hospitable. There are several examples of hospitality in the Bible. For example, indoors Genesis 18:2-8. Abraham and Sarah were quick to show hospitality to the “men” who came to them. Gideon (Judges 6:11-24) and Manoah (Judges 13:6-20) also served their angel visitors. Isaiah reminds the Israelites that they are to care for and help those in need.
“Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and to bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?” Isaiah 58:7
Even in the New Testament (Acts 2:42-47), the new Christians sold their things, lived in community and shared with anyone in need. They ate together, worshiped together, and prayed together. How can we live more like this?
What does Biblical hospitality look like?
Now that we’ve covered what Christian hospitality is, along with some examples, let’s summarize that information in one: Biblical view of hospitality. As with all things, we must use the Bible to form our beliefs and convictions. As we will see, biblical hospitality looks different than simply entertaining others into your home. What does it look like? Biblical hospitality:
- Serves with pleasure. It is not entertaining, where you as the hostess are central.
- Bless others. Consider who is the center of attention. Is it you and your house, or are they your guests?
- Listens more. This can be difficult if you’re a talker, but take the time to listen to the needs of others. Steer the conversation toward spiritual matters.
- Invites people who need help or love. It’s easy to have friends who are like us. We encourage each other. However, with Biblical hospitality, we are willing to step out of our comfort zone and invite someone we would not normally take the time to get to know or encourage.
- Put rejections and grudges aside. There may be people who say no to our offer, or do something that pricks our pride. However, as followers of Christ, we must forgive and set aside that pain so that we can continue to serve others who need us. Don’t give up if things don’t go well at first.
- Points to Christ. Our hospitality should point others to Christ. It shouldn’t be about us at all.
- Maintains relationships. Relationship is the key in Biblical hospitality. We need to build quality relationships with others and nurture relationships with Christ.
- Serves with pleasure. Biblical hospitality, as previously mentioned, is not about us. Be happy to serve even if you feel uncomfortable.
- Models what God has called us to do. Our children are watching, so find ways to show them what it means to serve others.
As mothers, unless we prioritize our relationship with God, it can easily fall by the wayside. Learn more about grow closer to God. As we grow closer to Him, we also become better wives and mothers.
Biblical hospitality tips
Remember, practicing Biblical hospitality is not about practicing Biblical hospitality You. However, it does require some effort and planning on your part. I mean, there’s nothing wrong with spontaneously inviting your neighbor for coffee, but most of the time we have to be more conscious about it. These Christian hospitality tips will help you get started. I’ve linked some great ones too biblical hospitality books.
- Keep it simple. Have a list of simple meals, desserts, drinks or snacks that you can easily put together.
- Make a list of potential people you can invite to your home or bless in some way. Think of those in your church, neighbors, or others in your community who could use some love or encouragement. Perhaps there is another young woman or mother you can mentor.
- Cover it in prayer. Pray about who to help or invite and pray before the event. Ask God to give you a listening ear and wisdom to know what to say.
- Intentional conversation. The purpose of Biblical hospitality is to point others to Christ. What you talk about can do that. Try to focus the conversation on spiritual matters.
- Read a book about biblical hospitality. The turquoise table, Just open the doorAnd The Gospel comes with a house key are some options to get you started. I’ve read the first two myself, and they are fantastic!
- Think of small, practical needs. Hospitality doesn’t just have to be in your home. Write an encouraging card, bring a meal to someone, offer to babysit, or serve in other ways in your local community.
- Invite others to do something you already do. Maybe you go for ice cream with your kids. Invite someone to join you. Are you working on a craft project? Invite that elderly widow from your church. Hospitality doesn’t have to be about a meal. Inviting others to join you in an activity is especially helpful if you are more introverted. . . then you don’t have to worry so much about talking!
Are you currently practicing Biblical hospitality? What scares you most about serving others in this way? I know this can be difficult for me as an introvert, but there are many ways to serve others without putting too much pressure on yourself. Let us be the light of Jesus to those around us!
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