Biblical Hospitality is a spiritual service Christians offer to others. The act of inviting others to join you at your table for food and fellowship is a time-honored tradition found in many biblical passages. Let’s explore the concept of Biblical Hospitality.
For one, you don’t need much to extend hospitality. Start with what you have in your home-the family table.
The use of the “table” in the Bible is found in many stories within the Old and New Testaments. It is the symbol of fellowship, serving others, and building relationships. Thus, the table becomes the essence of Biblical Hospitality.
Many of us use our tables for other activities such as, paperwork, puzzles, homework, art projects, and even storage. Have you considered using your table as a spiritual outreach?
Christians will find inviting someone to their table, showing Christ’s love, and building relationships can serve as a successful outreach to those who do not yet know Christ. For Christian friends, the table can be used to offer encouragement and love for one another. How about inviting the new person that just started attending your church? These are all opportunities to show Christ-like love and service.
Bible Verses About Hospitality
Genesis 18:6-8– Abraham, considered a friend of God was known for his hospitality. He served the choicest food to three strangers that ended up becoming an encounter with God. Present your love for serving others at your table.
Numbers 4:7 – A table was built for the Tent Tabernacle to place the Bread of the Presence. How interesting, Jesus would come later and tell His followers He is the bread of life. Share the bread of Jesus with others at your table.
Matthew 26:26-27– The Last Supper was in an upper room in Jerusalem around a table. This is where Jesus had his final meal with His disciples. He was preparing them for His departure and the beginning of their ministry. Consider a table ministry to reach others.
Matthew 9:10-11 – Matthew invites Jesus to dine with him and his friends at his home/table. These friends were considered sinners, according to the religious leaders. Jesus humbly shares with those that need Him the most. We should not live in a Christian bubble; reach out to those in need of a Savior at your table.
Hebrews 13:3 – Tells us to offer hospitality to strangers, for you never know you may be serving angels. Let’s not wage against foreigners/sojourners or those different from us in life. Offer open invitations to all at your table.
The How To’s of Biblical Hospitality
Biblical Hospitality does not require fancy meals or pull out the china type of occasion. It does need an open heart, an inclined ear, and eyes to see those that would benefit from Biblical Hospitality.
Take into account your time, resources, and abilities; some may be called too large meal gatherings, others, a smaller meal, or coffee/tea with a small dessert. We all feed ourselves; use a meal as an invite and enjoy table fellowship in your home.
For deeper understanding of Biblical Hospitality consider the book “The Hospitality Commands” By Alexander Strauch. This book explores further scripture references on hospitality. It includes study questions and assignments for group study. Invite a group of friends and explore Biblical Hospitality together.
Call To Action
What steps are you going to take today?
- Commit to begin praying for a desire to serve Biblical Hospitality.
- Decide on your ability and means to provide a meal and fellowship for others.
- Select a person(s) you would like to invite and follow through with an invitation.
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Your faithfulness is inspiring.
Thank you Henry, it is my goal to share with others as the Lord inspires me. Blessings