UASV’s Daily Devotional All Things Bible, Thursday, March 27, 2025

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Why Should Believers Practice Hospitality—Even to Strangers?

Hebrews 13:2 states, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” This instruction flows from the broader call in Hebrews 13:1, “Let brotherly love continue.” As the inspired writer moves from general love within the Christian community to specific behaviors, the very next emphasis is on hospitality. This verse highlights not only the command to practice hospitality, but also the spiritual significance and unseen consequences that may come with it. It teaches that believers must remain open-hearted, generous, and ready to serve—even when there is no personal benefit or prior relationship involved.

The command opens with the phrase, “Do not forget to show hospitality.” The Greek term for “hospitality” is philoxenia, which literally means “love of strangers” (philos = love; xenos = stranger). This word reflects more than simply being kind to guests—it describes an active, loving initiative to care for those who are unknown, unconnected, or in need. This is not optional or reserved for those with large homes or financial means; it is a universal Christian duty grounded in God’s own character. Jehovah is a defender of the stranger (Deuteronomy 10:18), and His people are called to imitate that care.

Hospitality in the first-century world was critical, especially among Christians. With frequent persecution, lack of public accommodations, and danger on the roads, believers often depended on the kindness of fellow Christians for shelter, food, and protection. Romans 12:13 gives a similar exhortation: “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” To “practice” something implies intentional, regular effort, not occasional or reluctant acts. In 1 Peter 4:9, believers are told, “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” True hospitality is not about performance or luxury—it is about sacrificial love and service.

The next phrase—“for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it”—refers to actual historical events and adds profound spiritual weight to the practice of hospitality. The writer is alluding to specific Old Testament accounts, particularly Genesis 18 and 19. In Genesis 18, Abraham welcomed three travelers into his tent, providing water, food, and rest. Only afterward did he realize that one of them was Jehovah in human form, accompanied by two angels. Similarly, Lot welcomed two men in Genesis 19 who were, in fact, angels sent to warn and deliver him from the destruction of Sodom.

The point is not that believers today should expect to unknowingly entertain angels, but that there is unseen significance to acts of hospitality. One never knows how far the impact of such kindness may reach or who the recipient truly is. The guest may be a humble believer in need, a messenger of God’s providence, or someone whose life may be dramatically altered by a simple act of care. The reference to angels also serves to reinforce reverence, not superstition. It elevates hospitality to a spiritual act—done not for applause or return, but in faithfulness to God’s standard of love and righteousness.

Additionally, this verse teaches the principle of unconditional service. Hospitality to friends or family is natural. Even unbelievers do this. But extending kindness to strangers, without guarantee of recognition or reward, reflects the selfless love that characterizes true discipleship. Jesus taught in Luke 14:13–14, “But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” Acts of kindness to those who can do nothing in return demonstrate that one’s motive is not self-serving, but God-honoring.

Hospitality is also a safeguard against selfishness and spiritual isolation. A faith that is lived only in private, or that avoids the inconvenience of others, is not aligned with the life Christ modeled. Jesus did not retreat from crowds, from discomfort, or from the messiness of human need. Instead, He welcomed all who came to Him with sincerity, and He taught His followers to do likewise. Matthew 25:35 records His words in the parable of the sheep and goats: “I was a stranger and you invited me in.” In that context, caring for others was equated with caring for Christ Himself.

Furthermore, this verse indirectly emphasizes humility. One must see others—especially strangers—not as burdens or threats but as people made in God’s image, potential fellow-heirs of the kingdom. Pride, fear, and prejudice often hinder hospitality. But love that comes from the Word of God removes such barriers. Galatians 6:10 encourages this proactive mindset: “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” While the primary focus is the church, the principle of doing good extends broadly to all whom God places in our path.

Ultimately, Hebrews 13:2 teaches that hospitality is not a peripheral virtue, but a core expression of obedience and Christlike love. It must not be forgotten, neglected, or treated lightly. Every believer has a responsibility to care for others, especially those who are new, unknown, or in need. This kind of love is not motivated by public recognition but by the fear of God and love for neighbor. In so doing, one honors Jehovah, imitates His mercy, and fulfills part of what it means to let brotherly love continue.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).