How does Judges 19:17 illustrate the importance of hospitality in Christian life? Setting the Scene - Judges 19 unfolds during Israel’s “every man did what was right in his own eyes” era. - Sin, violence, and neglect dominate the chapter, yet verse 17 introduces a solitary act of kindness: “When he looked up and saw the traveler in the city square, the old man asked, ‘Where are you going, and where have you come from?’” The Old Man’s Question—A Spark of Light - The question is simple, yet it signals concern, responsibility, and willingness to help. - In a place where no one else cared, one man noticed strangers, stopped, and engaged them. - His words communicate four essentials of biblical hospitality: • Awareness—he “looked up and saw.” • Initiative—he approached first. • Relationship—he sought to know their story. • Provision—he soon brought them into his home (vv. 20-21). Hospitality as Covenant Faithfulness - Throughout Scripture, welcoming strangers reflects obedience to God: • Genesis 18:2-5—Abraham rushes to serve three visitors. • Exodus 22:21—Israel is warned not to mistreat sojourners. • Matthew 25:35—“I was a stranger and you took Me in.” • Romans 12:13—“Practice hospitality.” • Hebrews 13:2—“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some have entertained angels without knowing it.” - The old man of Judges 19 models the same covenant mindset—honoring God by honoring guests. Contrasting Darkness and Light - Gibeah’s citizens later display shocking inhospitality (vv. 22-26). - The old man’s welcome therefore stands out all the more, teaching that genuine hospitality: • Upholds human dignity in a corrupt culture. • Defuses potential danger—travelers off the street are safer inside. • Bears witness to God’s character when society forgets Him. Why It Matters for Believers Today - Hospitality is not optional; it is gospel living in daily life. - Practical implications: • Look up—notice people on the “city square” of modern life: neighbors, coworkers, newcomers at church. • Speak first—simple questions open doors (“How are you? Where are you from?”). • Invite in—share a meal, offer a ride, provide a guest room when needed. • Give freely—“Show hospitality to one another without complaining” (1 Peter 4:9). • Remember Jesus—He “came to seek and to save” the lost (Luke 19:10), and He often did so around a table. Christ—The Ultimate Host - The Lord prepares a place for His people (John 14:2-3). - He feeds multitudes, washes feet, and welcomes children. - Every act of Christian hospitality echoes His greater welcome of sinners into grace. Summing Up Judges 19:17 shines as a brief yet powerful reminder: noticing, approaching, and caring for strangers is part of living out God’s heart. In a world still marked by indifference, believers have the privilege—and the responsibility—to practice true, Christ-centered hospitality. |
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