Topical Bible: Hospitality: People of Melita

◄ Hospitality: People of Melita ►

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The concept of hospitality is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, often seen as a reflection of God's love and care for humanity. One notable example of hospitality is found in the account of the people of Melita, as described in the Acts of the Apostles.

Biblical Context

The island of Melita, known today as Malta, is the setting for a remarkable demonstration of hospitality in the New Testament. The Apostle Paul, on his journey to Rome as a prisoner, encountered a severe storm that led to a shipwreck. The narrative is detailed in Acts 27 and 28, where Paul and his companions, along with the ship's crew, find themselves stranded on the island.

Acts 28:1-2 : "Once we were safely ashore, we learned that the island was called Malta. The islanders showed us extraordinary kindness. They kindled a fire and welcomed all of us because it was raining and cold."

The Hospitality of the Melitans

The people of Melita are commended for their "extraordinary kindness" towards Paul and the shipwrecked crew. Despite the sudden arrival of these strangers, the islanders did not hesitate to offer assistance. Their actions exemplify the biblical principle of hospitality, which involves welcoming and caring for strangers and those in need.

The Melitans' response is particularly significant given the circumstances. The shipwreck survivors were cold, wet, and likely in a state of shock. The islanders' immediate reaction to build a fire and provide warmth and shelter highlights their compassion and willingness to serve others without hesitation.

Paul's Interaction with the Melitans

During his stay on the island, Paul continued to demonstrate his faith and God's power. In Acts 28:3-6, Paul is bitten by a viper but suffers no harm, which astonishes the islanders. This event leads them to view Paul with great respect, and it opens the door for further interactions.

Acts 28:7-9 : "Nearby stood an estate belonging to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us and entertained us hospitably for three days. The father of Publius was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after praying, placed his hands on him and healed him. After this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured."

The chief official, Publius, extends hospitality by welcoming Paul and his companions into his home. This act of kindness is reciprocated by Paul through the healing of Publius's father and others on the island. The mutual exchange of hospitality and healing underscores the transformative power of kindness and faith.

Theological Implications

The account of the people of Melita serves as a powerful illustration of the biblical mandate to practice hospitality. It reflects the broader Christian teaching that hospitality is not merely a social duty but a spiritual calling. By welcoming strangers and providing for their needs, believers participate in God's work and demonstrate His love to the world.

The Melitans' actions also remind Christians of the importance of being open to divine encounters. Through their hospitality, they not only provided for physical needs but also became witnesses to God's miraculous power through Paul. This narrative encourages believers to remain attentive to opportunities for service and to recognize the potential for God's work in every act of kindness.

Conclusion

The account of the people of Melita is a testament to the enduring value of hospitality in the Christian faith. Their example challenges believers to extend kindness and care to all, reflecting the love of Christ in a tangible and meaningful way.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 28:2
And the barbarous people showed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Acts XXVIII
... There the people first took Paul for a god ... conceded that the island here called Melita
is the ... It was an instance of distinguished hospitality, to entertain for ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts xxviii.htm

Paul in Malta and Rome.
... knew that the island was called Melita." There were ... barbarous, is used to denote
a people rude and ... their sufferings, and what unaffected hospitality could do ...
/.../dick/lectures on the acts of the apostles/lecture xxix paul in malta.htm

Acts xxvi. 30-32
... they knew that the island was called Melita." (ch ... for in fact this is a reckless
sort of people. ... thorns are, there are wild beasts: where hospitality is, there ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily liii acts xxvi 30-32.htm