In the biblical context, the term "aliens" refers to foreigners or strangers residing in a land that is not their own. The Bible, particularly in the teachings of Jesus, emphasizes the importance of showing hospitality and kindness to these individuals. This principle is deeply rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition and is reflected in both the Old and New Testaments.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays the groundwork for the treatment of aliens, with numerous passages instructing the Israelites to show kindness and justice to foreigners. In Leviticus 19:33-34 , God commands, "When a foreigner resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. You must treat the foreigner living among you as native-born and love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God." This directive is a reminder of the Israelites' own history as strangers in Egypt and serves as a call to empathy and compassion.

Jesus' Teachings on Hospitality

Jesus' teachings in the New Testament further expand on the importance of hospitality to strangers. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus speaks directly to the treatment of others, including aliens, in the context of the final judgment. Matthew 25:35 states, "For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in." Here, Jesus identifies Himself with the stranger, emphasizing that acts of kindness towards aliens are acts of service to Him.

The parable of the Good Samaritan, found in Luke 10:25-37, also underscores the call to love and care for those who are different from us. In this parable, Jesus illustrates that true neighborly love transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries, as the Samaritan shows compassion to a wounded Jew, a member of a group typically despised by Samaritans.

The Early Church and Hospitality

The early Christian community took Jesus' teachings to heart, as evidenced by their practices and writings. The Book of Hebrews exhorts believers to continue in hospitality: "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it" (Hebrews 13:2). This passage not only encourages hospitality but also suggests that such acts may have divine significance.

The Apostle Paul also emphasizes the importance of hospitality in his letters. In Romans 12:13 , he instructs, "Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality." This directive is part of a broader call to live out genuine love and service within the Christian community and beyond.

Implications for Believers

The biblical mandate to show hospitality to aliens is a call to action for believers, urging them to reflect Christ's love and compassion in their interactions with strangers. This hospitality is not merely a social duty but a spiritual practice that aligns with the heart of the Gospel. By welcoming and caring for aliens, Christians demonstrate the inclusive and transformative love of Jesus, fulfilling His command to love one's neighbor as oneself.Matthew 25:35,38,43
For I was an hungered, and you gave me meat: I was thirsty, and you gave me drink: I was a stranger, and you took me in:
Nave's Topical Index

1 Timothy v. 8
... Because the latter, if he benefits not aliens, does not ... take the first place, it
is not hospitality, it is ... No such trouble is required here, where thou sowest ...
/.../homily xiv 1 timothy v.htm

The Letter of the Church of Rome
... ordered sacrifices and services to be performed; and required this to ... [15] The Greek
word implies a colony of aliens without full ... 17] Hospitality is emphasized ...
/.../richardson/early christian fathers/the letter of the church.htm

1 Cor. xiv. 20
... that believe, that which draws in aliens and makes ... things, charity to the poor,
hospitality, continuing instant ... this is not the only thing required, but rather ...
/.../homilies on the epistles of paul to the corinthians/homily xxxvi 1 cor xiv.htm

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