How does Exodus 18:7 reflect the importance of hospitality in Christian life?

Setting the Scene

Exodus 18 opens with Moses leading Israel through the wilderness when Jethro, his father-in-law, arrives. Verse 7 snapshots their first moments together:

“​So Moses went out to meet his father-in-law and bowed down and kissed him. They greeted each other and went into the tent.” (Exodus 18:7)

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Hospitality on Display in Exodus 18:7

• Moses “went out” – he takes the initiative; hospitality starts with proactive welcome.

• “Bowed down and kissed him” – a posture of humility and affection; it communicates honor, not mere duty.

• “They greeted each other” – mutual warmth; hospitality flows both ways.

• “Went into the tent” – Moses shares his personal space; true hospitality opens doors, not just mouths.

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Key Elements of God-Honoring Hospitality

1. Initiative – don’t wait for guests to prove worthiness; step toward them (cf. Luke 15:20).

2. Honor – esteem others as higher than ourselves (Philippians 2:3).

3. Affection – biblical love is tangible; a warm embrace or handshake matters (Romans 16:16).

4. Shared life – hospitality invites others into our daily rhythms, symbolized by entering the tent.

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New Testament Echoes

• “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some have welcomed angels without knowing it.” (Hebrews 13:2)

• “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.” (Romans 12:13)

• “Show hospitality to one another without complaining.” (1 Peter 4:9)

The pattern Moses models is fully endorsed—and intensified—by Christ and His apostles.

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Practical Takeaways for Today

• Greet people at the door or driveway; go out to meet them like Moses.

• Demonstrate respect through attentive listening and sincere gestures of warmth.

• Invite guests into your “tent”—your living room, your meal table, your life.

• Remember hospitality extends beyond friends and family; include strangers, newcomers, and those on the margins.

• See every act of welcome as service to Christ Himself (Matthew 25:40).

Hospitality in Scripture is never optional. Exodus 18:7 reminds us that welcoming others with humility, honor, and warmth is an essential expression of faith lived out in daily life.