Entertain Strangers (Hebrews 13:2)

2024-01-31

Be not forgetful to entertain strangers... (Hebrews 13:2)

Why entertain strangers? Since this verse follows a verse on brotherly love, it is a logical extension of that love. The word for “entertain strangers” is translated “hospitality” elsewhere. “Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality” (Romans 12:13). Seeing hospitality is paired with giving to believers’ necessities, we see that giving, sharing, and inviting people into your home are all expressions of love. There is a level of vulnerability there, especially if it is a person you do not know well. This type of hospitality was required for being a church bishop (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8). To love the brethren is to invite them into your life, even if you do not know them, because there is that bond in Christ with them.