Compare Genesis 18:9 with Hebrews 13:2 on entertaining strangers. Genesis 18: A Living Illustration of Hospitality - Setting: Abraham is resting by the oaks of Mamre when three men appear (Genesis 18:1-2). - Immediate action: He runs to meet them, bows low, offers water, rest, and a lavish meal (18:3-8). - Key verse: Genesis 18:9 — “Where is your wife Sarah?” they asked. “There, in the tent,” he replied. • The visitors know Sarah’s name and later reveal divine authority, showing Abraham was hosting the LORD and two angels (18:13, 22; 19:1). - Literal takeaway: This event happened just as recorded, demonstrating that God may come to His people in unexpected, ordinary-looking ways. Hebrews 13:2: The Principle Stated Hebrews 13:2 — “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some have entertained angels without knowing it.” - The writer draws straight from Genesis 18 (and also 19, Lot’s experience). - Command mood: “Do not neglect” makes hospitality a continuing duty, not an optional nicety. - Motivation: The possibility of unknowingly hosting angels underscores how seriously God regards our treatment of strangers. Side-by-Side Insights - Same God, same expectation: Old and New Testaments agree that welcoming strangers is an essential covenant practice. - Real angels, real people: Genesis confirms literal angelic guests; Hebrews assumes the same reality for believers today. - Hidden identity: In both passages, the guests appear ordinary, reminding us that outward appearance never tells the full story. - Blessing follows hospitality: Abraham received a reaffirmed promise of Isaac; believers today receive God’s favor and possible angelic ministry. Why Hospitality Matters to Us - It mirrors God’s heart: He welcomed us while we were “strangers and aliens” (Ephesians 2:12-13). - It advances the gospel: Homes open to strangers become platforms for encouragement and witness (Acts 16:15, 34). - It resists selfish culture: Welcoming those outside our circle counters isolation and displays Christ-like love (Romans 12:13). - It invites unseen help: Angels remain active servants of God sent to help those who will inherit salvation (Hebrews 1:14). Practical Ways to “Entertain Strangers” Today - Keep an extra place at the table when you cook. - Greet newcomers at church and invite them for coffee or a meal. - Offer your guest room (or couch) to missionaries, traveling believers, or displaced neighbors. - Support ministries that house refugees, the homeless, or college internationals. - Carry gift cards or care packets in your car for people you meet who have immediate needs. Supporting Scriptures - Leviticus 19:34 — “The stranger who dwells with you shall be to you as the native among you…” - Matthew 25:35 — “I was a stranger and you welcomed Me.” - Romans 12:13 — “Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” - 1 Peter 4:9 — “Show hospitality to one another without complaining.” Summing Up From Abraham’s tent to the exhortation in Hebrews, Scripture treats hospitality as a sacred, God-honoring practice. Welcoming strangers reflects God’s own welcome to us and positions us to receive unexpected blessings—even the presence of angels. |
    |