TUESDAY October 27, 2026

The Hospitable Christian

Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.
1 Peter 4:9

Hospitality among Christians is not seen as much in today’s churches. Early Christians regularly opened their homes to those in need of shelter, especially as believers were being persecuted for their faith. The injured were not hospitalized; they were cared for in other people’s homes.

Christians are called upon to be hospitable, but not only that. Peter gave us the right heart attitude––without grumbling. When you invite somebody over to dinner, do not start complaining because of the high stack of dirty dishes. Hospitality is a practical way to show others genuine Christian love. They will feel at home because of your heartfelt care for them. After all, we are to be one, big family.

Is there an elderly person who needs help and shelter after a sudden surgery? Do not offer to pay for a hotel; let them stay with you and your family until they are well enough to be independent.

In today’s society, we know that you have to use discernment when opening your home to people. It is wise to protect yourself and your family, because there are many strange folks who are not stable in their minds. But at the same time, as believers, be open to show hospitality to church missionaries or a brother or sister in Christ who is sick or in need of a place to stay for a short while. If your heart is open, then your home will be open, too.

In 1 Timothy 3:2, leaders are also taught to be hospitable: A bishop [overseer or elder] must be blameless ... of good behavior, hospitable.... And again: For a Bishop must be ... hospitable... (Titus 1:8).

Did you know that on occasion, when opening your home to a safe, friendly stranger, the Bible reveals that you may have entertained an angel? Read Hebrews 13:2 with me: Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels. The word entertain literally means “love of strangers” or “hospitable.” Has God shown you a need to open up your home to someone?

The Bible teaches that our homes should be hospitable and that those who come in and out of our homes should sense the presence of Christ.
~Billy Graham~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!