Hospitality versus Entertaining

What do you think of when you hear the word hospitality?

The American Heritage Dictionary defines it as “welcoming guests with warmth and generosity; a fondness for entertaining; and well disposed toward strangers;” but biblical hospitality goes much further than a mere “fondness of entertaining”. It is seeking to minister rather than impress.

In her book Open Heart, Open Home,(Mainstay Ministries 2005), Karen Mains writes, "Entertaining says, “I want to impress you with my beautiful home, my clever decorating, my gourmet cooking.” Hospitality, however, seeks to minister.

It says, "This home is not mine. It is truly a gift from my master. I am His servant and I use it as He desires. Hospitality does not seek to impress, but to serve.” "

In the original language of the New Testament, hospitality is translated literally, “the love of strangers” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words). This is the word Paul used when he wrote to the Roman church urging them to “practice hospitality” (Romans 12:13, NASB).

Thus we are to actively pursue, promote, and aspire to hospitality. We are to think about it, plan for it, prepare for it, pray about it, and seek opportunities to do it. In short, the Romans 12 passage teaches that all Christians are to pursue the practice of hospitality.

It is not an option or a preference—it is a command. Hospitality was one of the defining marks of the Early Church—one that has, I believe, been lost in our busy, overly committed, twenty-first century families and churches; nevertheless, God’s command remains, “practice hospitality”.

Likewise, we are reminded not to “neglect hospitality” (Hebrew 13:2, NASB) but to “be hospitable to one another without complaint. As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God” (I Peter 4:9-10, NASB).

“Expect great things of God as He uses your life and home. No matter what your background, your style of entertaining, or the condition of your house, God can make miracles happen and change people’s lives for eternity!” (The Joy of Hospitality Barbara Ball & Vonette Bright, New Life Publications, 1995). He can use your unique personality, experiences, even your specific geographic location for His purposes. Just make yourself available and begin to practice.

The Boomer Blogger