Hospitality in the Bible is a significant theme that reflects the character of God and His expectations for His people. It is the act of generously providing care and kindness to strangers, guests, and those in need. The practice of hospitality is deeply rooted in the culture and teachings of the Bible, serving as a tangible expression of love and community.

In the Old Testament, hospitality is seen as a sacred duty. Abraham's encounter with the three visitors in Genesis 18:1-8 exemplifies this virtue. Abraham eagerly welcomes the strangers, offering them water, rest, and a meal. This act of hospitality is later revealed to be an encounter with the Lord Himself. Similarly, in Leviticus 19:34, God commands the Israelites to treat the foreigner residing among them as native-born, emphasizing love and empathy: "You must love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt."

The New Testament continues to uphold the importance of hospitality. Jesus Himself was often the recipient of hospitality, as seen in the home of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42). He also taught His disciples to rely on the hospitality of others as they spread the Gospel (Matthew 10:11-14). The early church practiced hospitality as a vital part of their community life. Acts 2:46 describes the believers breaking bread in their homes and sharing meals with gladness and sincerity of heart.

The Apostle Paul frequently encouraged hospitality among believers. In Romans 12:13, he exhorts, "Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality." Similarly, in Hebrews 13:2, believers are reminded, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it."

Hospitality is not merely a social duty but a spiritual practice that reflects the love of Christ. It is a means of serving others and demonstrating the Gospel in action. By opening our homes and hearts, Christians are called to embody the welcoming nature of God, who invites all to His table.

Evangelism

Evangelism is the proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, a central mission for Christians as commanded by Scripture. It involves sharing the message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ with others, with the aim of leading them to a personal relationship with Him.

The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20, serves as the foundational mandate for evangelism: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This command underscores the global and inclusive nature of evangelism, calling believers to reach all people with the Gospel.

In the New Testament, the early church exemplified evangelism through the apostles' preaching and missionary journeys. The Apostle Paul, in particular, dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel, as seen in Acts 13-28. His letters often emphasize the urgency and necessity of evangelism. In Romans 10:14-15, Paul writes, "How then can they call on the One in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? And how can they preach unless they are sent?"

Evangelism is not limited to public preaching but includes personal witness and lifestyle. 1 Peter 3:15 encourages believers to "always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you." This readiness to share one's faith is a personal aspect of evangelism, where believers are called to live in a way that reflects Christ and invites questions about their faith.

The power of evangelism lies in the work of the Holy Spirit, who convicts and draws people to Christ. Believers are instruments in God's hands, called to faithfully proclaim the Gospel and trust in His power to transform hearts. Evangelism is both a privilege and a responsibility, as Christians participate in God's redemptive plan for the world.