Hospitality in the Bible is a significant theme that reflects the character of God and His expectations for His people. It is the practice of welcoming, caring for, and providing for strangers and guests. The biblical concept of hospitality goes beyond mere social courtesy; it is a demonstration of love, kindness, and generosity, often reflecting God's own nature.

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 rest and refreshment. This act of hospitality is later revealed to be an encounter with the Lord Himself. The Law given to Israel also emphasizes hospitality, particularly towards foreigners and sojourners, as seen in Leviticus 19:34: "You must treat the foreigner living among you as native-born and love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God."

The New Testament continues this theme, with Jesus Himself modeling hospitality. He often dined with sinners and outcasts, demonstrating God's inclusive love. In Luke 10:38-42, the account of Mary and Martha highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual hospitality—welcoming Jesus into one's life and heart. The early church practiced hospitality as a vital part of their community life, as seen in Acts 2:46-47, where believers shared meals with glad and sincere hearts.

The epistles further instruct believers to practice hospitality. Romans 12:13 urges, "Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality." Similarly, 1 Peter 4:9 advises, "Show hospitality to one another without complaining." Hospitality is not just a duty but a joyful expression of Christian love and fellowship.

Heart Attitude

The heart attitude in Scripture refers to the inner disposition and motivations that drive a person's actions and thoughts. The Bible places significant emphasis on the condition of the heart, as it is the wellspring of life and the seat of one's spiritual state.

In the Old Testament, God consistently looks beyond outward appearances to the heart. In 1 Samuel 16:7, the LORD tells Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart." This principle underscores the importance of sincerity and integrity in one's relationship with God.

The Psalms frequently address the heart, calling for purity and devotion. Psalm 51:10 is a plea for inner transformation: "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." This reflects the understanding that true righteousness begins with a heart aligned with God's will.

In the New Testament, Jesus emphasizes the heart's role in moral and spiritual life. In Matthew 5:8, He declares, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." Jesus also warns against hypocrisy, teaching that genuine worship and obedience must stem from a sincere heart (Matthew 15:8-9).

The epistles further develop this theme, urging believers to cultivate a heart attitude that reflects Christ's character. Philippians 2:5 encourages, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." This involves humility, selflessness, and a servant's heart. Additionally, Colossians 3:23 instructs, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men," highlighting the importance of serving God with a wholehearted and sincere heart.

Overall, the Bible teaches that a right heart attitude is essential for true worship, effective service, and genuine relationships with God and others.