Overview
Hospitality in Scripture demonstrates generous welcome to guests, strangers, and the vulnerable. Abraham exemplified this by eagerly receiving three visitors, preparing food and shelter (Genesis 18:3-8). God's law required Israel to care for foreigners and sojourners, remembering their own deliverance from Egypt (Leviticus 19:33-34; Deuteronomy 10:18-19). Hospitality extends beyond mere politeness to include providing for the poor and needy (Deuteronomy 26:12-13).
Key Scriptures
"When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth" (Genesis 18:2, ESV). "You shall not wrong a stranger or oppress him, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt" (Exodus 22:21, ESV). "Let mutual love continue. Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it" (Hebrews 13:1-2, NIV).
Application
Cultivate genuine hospitality by intentionally welcoming strangers, neighbors, and those in need into your home and life as an expression of Christ's love and the gospel.