Hospitality and the Heart of the Gospel Sample

Pursue Hospitality

In Romans 1–11, Paul explains the foundation of our faith, showing how God has saved us through Christ. Then, in Romans 12–15, Paul focuses on how we live out that faith, with hospitality being one key aspect. Romans 12:13 tells us, “Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality” (NIV).

This command is more than just about helping others; it’s about letting our faith overflow into action. True faith transforms how we live. It’s not only a belief but also a way of living. Hospitality is one of these actions, and it exceeds far beyond simply hosting someone in our homes. It is a way to make space for others to experience God’s love, especially those in need.

In Acts 2:42-45, we see early Christians living this out by sharing resources and caring for each other. “Owning everything in common” was a way to practice generous hospitality as they embraced one another as family.

The word “practice” in Greek, diōkō, means actively pursuing something with effort (Romans 14:19, 1 Thessalonians 5:15). Hospitality isn’t passive; it’s a proactive choice to open our hearts and homes. It invites us not only to share our material possessions but also to make room for people, particularly those who are strangers or in need.

Paul also links hospitality with love. He calls us to love our brothers and sisters in Christ as well as strangers. In fact, Paul encourages us to balance philadelphia (Romans 12:10, love for the brethren, or brotherly love) with philoxenia (Romans 12:13, love for strangers). How we treat those outside the church is just as important as how we treat those within it.

In Romans 12, Paul describes a love that is sincere, patient, generous, and hospitable. This kind of love is an active choice to serve and make space for others. When we practice hospitality, we reflect God’s love, generosity, and kindness to the world.

Hospitality is more than a nice gesture. It is an act of worship, a way we show Christ’s love. Let’s pursue it not as a task but as a lifestyle, extending grace and love wherever we go.

Reflect and Act

Reflect on what might keep you from showing active hospitality, generosity, and love to others. Do you worry you don’t have anything impressive to offer? Perhaps your life is so busy you can’t imagine adding one more thing.

Faithfulness doesn’t require monumental gestures or heroic actions, but it does require us to put love into practice. Consider one or two ways you can show generosity and hospitality this week by hosting someone in your home or helping care for someone in need.