Topical Encyclopedia Hospitality, a virtue highly esteemed in the biblical tradition, is consistently encouraged throughout Scripture. It is regarded as an expression of love, kindness, and generosity, reflecting the character of God Himself. The practice of hospitality is not merely a social nicety but a profound demonstration of faith and obedience to God's commands.Old Testament Foundations The Old Testament lays a strong foundation for the practice of hospitality. Abraham, the patriarch of Israel, is a prime example. In Genesis 18:1-8, Abraham warmly welcomes three visitors, offering them rest and refreshment. This act of hospitality is later revealed to be an encounter with the Lord Himself, underscoring the spiritual significance of welcoming strangers. The Law of Moses also emphasizes hospitality. Leviticus 19:34 instructs the Israelites: "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 command highlights the importance of empathy and kindness towards strangers, rooted in Israel's own experience of God's deliverance. New Testament Teachings The New Testament continues to encourage hospitality as a vital aspect of Christian living. Jesus Himself modeled hospitality, often dining with sinners and outcasts, demonstrating God's inclusive love. In Luke 14:12-14, Jesus teaches, "When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed." The early church embraced hospitality as a core practice. In Romans 12:13, Paul exhorts believers to "share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality." Similarly, in Hebrews 13:2, Christians are reminded, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." Spiritual Leadership and Hospitality Hospitality is also a qualification for spiritual leadership within the church. In 1 Timothy 3:2, Paul lists hospitality as a requirement for overseers: "An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach." This underscores the importance of hospitality as a reflection of godly character and leadership. Practical Expressions of Hospitality The encouragement to practice hospitality extends beyond mere obligation; it is an opportunity to serve and bless others. In 1 Peter 4:9, believers are instructed to "show hospitality to one another without grumbling." This call to joyful and willing hospitality reflects a heart transformed by the love of Christ. Hospitality in the biblical sense is not limited to opening one's home but includes acts of kindness, generosity, and service to others. It is a tangible expression of the love and grace that believers have received from God, and it serves as a powerful witness to the world of the transformative power of the Gospel. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 14:14And you shall be blessed; for they cannot recompense you: for you shall be recompensed at the resurrection of the just. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 13:2 Library Hearken and Look; Or, Encouragement for Believers 1 Timothy v. 8 New York to California Index of Subjects. Homilies on the Epistle to the Hebrews. Manasseh's Sin and Repentance To the Rev. A. Brandram "Lazarus, Come Forth" Prayer Born of Compassion Jesus and the Bethany Sisters. Resources Who were the three men who visited Abraham in Genesis 18? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is New Monasticism? | GotQuestions.org What is Celtic Christianity? | GotQuestions.org Hospitality: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Hospitality: A Test of Christian Character Hospitality: Abimelech to Abraham Hospitality: Abraham to the Angels Hospitality: David to Mephibosheth Hospitality: Elisha to the Syrian Spies Hospitality: General Scriptures Concerning Hospitality: Isaac to Abimelech Hospitality: Joseph to his Brothers Hospitality: Laban to Abraham's Servant Hospitality: Lydia to Paul and Silas Hospitality: Man of Gibeah to the Levite Hospitality: Melchizedek to Abraham Hospitality: Onesiphorus to Paul Hospitality: Pharaoh to Abraham Hospitality: Pharisees to Jesus Hospitality: Rahab to the Spies Hospitality: Required in Ministers Hospitality: Rewarded: Rahab's Hospitality: Rewarded: Widow of Zarephath's Hospitality: Simon the Tanner to Peter Hospitality: Sons of Heth to Abraham Hospitality: Specially to be Shown to Enemies Hospitality: Specially to be Shown to Strangers Hospitality: Specially to be Shown to The Poor Hospitality: The Shunammite Woman to Elisha Hospitality: The Widow of Zarephath to Elijah Hospitality: Zacchaeus to Jesus Inhospitableness: Ammonites and Moabites Inhospitableness: Men of Gibeah Toward a Levite Inhospitableness: Nabal Toward David Inhospitableness: some Samaritans Toward Jesus Related Terms |
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