50+ Bible Verses About Hospitality (And What They Mean)
Hospitality is a recurring theme in the Bible, reflecting the importance of kindness and generosity. This article brings together 50 Bible verses that highlight the value of welcoming others.
These verses offer insights into how hospitality can be practiced in everyday life. They remind us of the simple yet profound impact of opening our hearts and homes to others.
What Does the Bible Say About Hospitality
Hospitality is a recurring theme in the Bible, reflecting the importance of kindness and generosity. The verses we've explored offer a rich tapestry of insights into how we can welcome others into our lives. They remind us that hospitality is more than just opening our homes; it's about opening our hearts.
One key theme is the idea of welcoming strangers. Verses like Hebrews 13:2 and Matthew 25:35 show us that when we extend kindness to those we don't know, we might be entertaining angels without realizing it. This teaches us to see every person as valuable and worthy of love.
Another important theme is the connection between hospitality and love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and 1 John 4:19-21 emphasize that true hospitality comes from a place of genuine love. When we love others as God loves us, our actions naturally reflect kindness and compassion.
Generosity is also a significant aspect of hospitality. Proverbs 11:25 and 2 Corinthians 9:7 highlight that giving with a cheerful heart brings joy and fulfillment. These verses encourage us to share our resources freely, knowing that our generosity will be rewarded in ways we might not expect.
Finally, the Bible teaches us that hospitality is a form of service. Verses like Romans 12:13 and 1 Peter 4:9 remind us that serving others without grumbling is a way to honor God. By welcoming others into our lives, we create a community of support and love, reflecting God's grace in our everyday actions.
50 Bible Verses About Hospitality
10 Bible Verses on Hospitality in the Old Testament
1) Genesis 18:1-8
Then the Lord appeared to him by the terebinth trees of Mamre, as he was sitting in the tent door in the heat of the day. So he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing by him; and when he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them, and bowed himself to the ground, and said, “My Lord, if I have now found favor in Your sight, do not pass on by Your servant. Please let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree. And I will bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh your hearts. After that you may pass by, inasmuch as you have come to your servant.” They said, “Do as you have said.” So Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quickly, make ready three measures of fine meal; knead it and make cakes.” And Abraham ran to the herd, took a tender and good calf, gave it to a young man, and he hastened to prepare it. So he took butter and milk and the calf which he had prepared, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree as they ate.
Meaning: Abraham's eagerness to serve strangers shows that true hospitality is about going above and beyond, even when it's inconvenient. It's a reminder that small acts of kindness can have divine significance.
2) Genesis 19:1-3
Now the two angels came to Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gate of Sodom. When Lot saw them, he rose to meet them, and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground. And he said, “Here now, my lords, please turn in to your servant’s house and spend the night, and wash your feet; then you may rise early and go on your way.” And they said, “No, but we will spend the night in the open square.” But he insisted strongly; so they turned in to him and entered his house. Then he made them a feast, and baked unleavened bread, and they ate.
Meaning: While society often teaches us to prioritize our own comfort, this verse shows the profound impact of putting others first. Lot's insistence on welcoming the angels into his home reminds us that true hospitality can be a powerful act of love and protection.
3) Exodus 22:21
You shall neither mistreat a stranger nor oppress him, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.
Meaning: This verse challenges us to rethink how we treat those who are different from us. It invites us to extend the same compassion and kindness we would want if we were in their shoes.
4) Leviticus 19:33-34
And if a stranger dwells with you in your land, you shall not mistreat him. The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.
Meaning: When you welcome someone new into your life, treat them with the same love and respect you would offer a close friend. It's like opening your home and heart, creating a space where everyone feels they belong.
5) Deuteronomy 10:19
Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.
Meaning: When you meet someone new, remember how it feels to be in an unfamiliar place. Offering a warm welcome can make all the difference in helping them feel at home.
6) Judges 19:20-21
And the old man said, “Peace be with you! However, let all your needs be my responsibility; only do not spend the night in the open square.” So he brought him into his house and gave fodder to the donkeys. And they washed their feet, and ate and drank.
Meaning: What does it mean to truly care for someone else's needs? In a world that often prioritizes self-interest, this verse shows the beauty of selfless hospitality, where the well-being of others takes center stage.
7) 1 Kings 17:10-11
So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, indeed a widow was there gathering sticks. And he called to her and said, “Please bring me a little water in a cup, that I may drink.” And as she was going to get it, he called to her and said, “Please bring me a morsel of bread in your hand.”
Meaning: It's like offering a helping hand to someone in need, even when you're struggling yourself. This verse challenges us to extend kindness and generosity, no matter our own circumstances.
8) 2 Kings 4:8-10
Now it happened one day that Elisha went to Shunem, where there was a notable woman, and she persuaded him to eat some food. So it was, as often as he passed by, he would turn in there to eat some food. And she said to her husband, “Look now, I know that this is a holy man of God, who passes by us regularly. Please, let us make a small upper room on the wall; and let us put a bed for him there, and a table and a chair and a lampstand; so it will be, whenever he comes to us, he can turn in there.”
Meaning: It's like when you go out of your way to make someone feel at home, even if it's just a small gesture. This verse can stir a sense of warmth and encouragement, reminding us that our efforts to care for others can create a lasting impact.
9) Job 31:32
But no sojourner had to lodge in the street, for I have opened my doors to the traveler.
Meaning: Welcoming others into your home can be a powerful act of kindness. In today's fast-paced world, offering a place of refuge can make a significant difference in someone's life.
10) Isaiah 58:7
Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; when you see the naked, that you cover him, and not hide yourself from your own flesh?
Meaning: Often, we focus on our own needs and overlook those around us. This verse invites us to shift our perspective and consider how we can extend our resources and compassion to others in need.
10 Bible Verses on New Testament Hospitality
11) Matthew 25:35
For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in
Meaning: It's like a timeless lesson in kindness. When you help someone in need, you're doing something truly meaningful, something that echoes through generations.
12) Luke 10:38-42
Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.”
Meaning: Sometimes, the most important thing we can do is simply be present and listen. It's a reminder that amidst our busy lives, taking time to connect on a deeper level can be the most meaningful act of all.
13) Acts 2:46-47
So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.
Meaning: It's about the power of community and shared joy. When people come together with genuine hearts, amazing things happen, and lives are transformed.
14) Acts 16:14-15
Now a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul. And when she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” So she persuaded us.
Meaning: Embrace the opportunity to open your heart and home to others. By doing so, you create a space for meaningful connections and shared faith journeys.
15) Romans 12:13
distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality
Meaning: It's like a gentle reminder that even in tough times, extending kindness and support to others can bring a sense of peace and connection.
16) 1 Corinthians 16:19
The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Priscilla greet you heartily in the Lord, with the church that is in their house
Meaning: The warmth of heartfelt greetings and the unity of believers create a beautiful tapestry of love and faith, woven together in the spirit of community.
17) Hebrews 13:2
Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.
Meaning: In moments of uncertainty, it's easy to overlook the impact of small acts of kindness. Yet, these gestures can bring unexpected blessings, reminding us that even in our simplest actions, there is profound significance.
18) 1 Peter 4:9
Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.
Meaning: Embrace the joy of welcoming others with a genuine heart. It's a gentle reminder that kindness, given freely, can create a ripple of warmth and connection.
19) 3 John 1:5-8
Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do for the brethren and for strangers, who have borne witness of your love before the church. If you send them forward on their journey in a manner worthy of God, you will do well, because they went forth for His name’s sake, taking nothing from the Gentiles. We therefore ought to receive such, that we may become fellow workers for the truth.
Meaning: Take a moment to reflect on the power of genuine love and support. When you extend kindness to others, you become part of something greater, a shared journey of faith and truth.
20) Philemon 1:22
But, meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me, for I trust that through your prayers I shall be granted to you.
Meaning: It's like a heartfelt reminder of the power of hope and connection. When we prepare for the arrival of loved ones, it brings a sense of anticipation and joy, knowing that our prayers and efforts can bring us closer together.
10 Bible Verses on Hospitality to Strangers
21) Hebrews 13:1-2
Let brotherly love continue. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.
Meaning: When life gets tough, remember that small acts of kindness can have a profound impact. Embrace the opportunity to show love and hospitality, knowing that your efforts can bring unexpected blessings.
22) Matthew 25:40
And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’
Meaning: It's a gentle reminder that every act of kindness we extend to others is a reflection of our love and devotion. When we care for those in need, we are honoring something much greater.
23) Leviticus 19:34
The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.
Meaning: It's fascinating how welcoming others can lead to personal growth. By embracing those who are different, we open ourselves to new experiences and deeper connections.
24) Romans 12:13
distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality
Meaning: God's call to care for others is timeless. Extending kindness and support to those around us brings a sense of peace and connection that transcends generations.
25) 1 Peter 4:9
Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.
Meaning: What if the next time you welcome someone, you do it with genuine joy? Try it and see how it transforms your interactions and relationships.
26) Job 31:32
But no sojourner had to lodge in the street, for I have opened my doors to the traveler.
Meaning: There's a comforting assurance in knowing that acts of kindness and hospitality are deeply valued. When you open your heart and home to others, you're building a foundation of trust and compassion that reflects God's unwavering love.
27) Genesis 18:1-5
Then the Lord appeared to him by the terebinth trees of Mamre, as he was sitting in the tent door in the heat of the day. So he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing by him; and when he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them, and bowed himself to the ground, and said, “My Lord, if I have now found favor in Your sight, do not pass on by Your servant. Please let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree. And I will bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh your hearts. After that you may pass by, inasmuch as you have come to your servant.” They said, “Do as you have said.”
Meaning: In ancient times, hospitality was a sacred duty. This verse shifts our perspective by showing that welcoming others isn't just a social nicety; it's a profound act of faith and reverence. It challenges us to see every guest as a divine encounter, transforming our everyday actions into moments of spiritual significance.
28) Acts 28:2
And the natives showed us unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold.
Meaning: In the midst of life's storms, a simple act of kindness can be a beacon of warmth and hope. It's like finding a cozy shelter when you're drenched and shivering, reminding us that compassion can shine brightest in the darkest times.
29) Deuteronomy 10:19
Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.
Meaning: Embrace the opportunity to extend love and kindness to those who are new or different. By doing so, you create a welcoming space that reflects the heart of true hospitality.
30) 1 Timothy 5:10
well reported for good works: if she has brought up children, if she has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has diligently followed every good work
Meaning: Consider how your everyday actions can reflect a life of kindness and service. It's a gentle reminder that your efforts to care for others are deeply valued and seen.
10 Bible Verses on Generosity and Hospitality
31) Proverbs 11:25
The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.
Meaning: The word "generous" carries immense weight here. It's like when you share your umbrella with someone in the rain; not only do you keep them dry, but you also find warmth in the act of kindness itself.
32) 2 Corinthians 9:7
So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.
Meaning: Take a moment to feel the peace that comes from knowing God's love and grace. In the midst of life's storms, this verse is a gentle reminder that giving with a joyful heart brings a sense of fulfillment and assurance.
33) Luke 6:38
Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.
Meaning: There's a hopeful promise in knowing that generosity brings abundance. In a world that often values taking and hoarding, this verse flips the script, showing that true richness comes from a heart willing to give freely.
34) 1 Timothy 6:18
Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share
Meaning: It's like a gentle nudge to embrace generosity in your daily life. When you open your heart to giving, you create a ripple effect of kindness and connection.
35) Hebrews 13:16
But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Meaning: The certainty of this promise is heartwarming. The verse beautifully captures the essence of selfless acts, showing that our kindness and generosity resonate deeply with divine approval.
36) Acts 20:35
I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’
Meaning: In every season of life, the joy of giving brings a deeper sense of fulfillment. It's a reminder that true happiness often comes from lifting others up.
37) Proverbs 19:17
He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord, and He will pay back what he has given.
Meaning: When you show compassion to those in need, you're doing something truly meaningful. It's a beautiful reminder that acts of kindness never go unnoticed and are deeply valued.
38) Matthew 10:42
And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.
Meaning: It's amazing how even the smallest acts of kindness are seen and cherished. This verse reassures us that every gesture of love and care holds profound significance in God's eyes.
39) Romans 12:8
he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness
Meaning: God's character shines through in the way He encourages us to live with purpose and joy. Embrace these qualities as a reflection of His love and guidance in your life.
40) 1 John 3:17
But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?
Meaning: In times of uncertainty, this verse serves as a grounding reminder to extend compassion and support to those around us. It encourages us to look beyond our immediate circumstances and recognize the greater purpose in acts of kindness.
10 Bible Verses on Love and Hospitality
41) 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Meaning: The essence of love described here has the power to transform lives, offering a beacon of hope and strength in any situation. Embracing these truths can lead to deeper connections and a more compassionate world.
42) 1 John 4:19-21
We love Him because He first loved us. If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.
Meaning: It's like a timeless truth that love for others is a reflection of our love for God. When we embrace this, we create a world where kindness and compassion are the norm, not the exception.
43) Romans 13:8
Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.
Meaning: Love is the ultimate guiding principle that brings fulfillment and peace. Trust in the power of love to create harmony and reflect God's unwavering promises.
44) 1 Peter 4:8
And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.”
Meaning: When you choose to love deeply, it has the power to heal and bring people closer together, even in the toughest times. It's like a gentle reminder that your love can make a real difference in someone's life.
45) John 13:34-35
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.
Meaning: The call to love others as we are loved is a timeless invitation to create a world filled with compassion and kindness. Embrace this truth and let your actions reflect the love that transforms lives.
46) Colossians 3:14
But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.
Meaning: Faith brings a sense of security, knowing that love is the ultimate guiding force. It's a comforting reminder that God's love binds everything together in perfect harmony.
47) Galatians 5:13
For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
Meaning: God's presence reassures us that true freedom comes from serving others with love. This verse encourages us to shift our focus from self-interest to acts of kindness and humility.
48) Ephesians 4:2
with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love
Meaning: Embracing humility and patience in our relationships can bring a sense of peace and unity. It's a beautiful reminder that love thrives when we support and uplift each other.
49) 1 Thessalonians 3:12
And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you
Meaning: Embrace the challenge to let your love for others grow and overflow in your daily interactions. Love isn't just a feeling; it's an active choice that can transform lives and build stronger communities.
50) 1 John 4:7
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.
Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, remember that love is a powerful force that connects us to something greater. Embrace love, and you'll find a sense of peace and belonging.
How to Apply These Bible Verses About Hospitality
Applying the Bible's teachings on hospitality can make a big difference in our daily lives. These verses remind us to be kind and generous, not just in our homes but in our hearts too.
Here are some practical steps to live out these principles:
- Start your day with a prayer asking God to help you be more welcoming and kind to others.
- Make it a habit to greet strangers with a smile and a kind word. Small gestures can make a big impact.
- Invite friends or neighbors over for a meal. Sharing food is a great way to build community.
- Volunteer at local shelters or community centers. Your time and effort can provide comfort to those in need.
- Be generous with your resources. Whether it's donating clothes or offering a helping hand, every bit counts.
- Practice active listening. Sometimes, the best way to show hospitality is by giving someone your full attention.
Remember, God is with you in every act of kindness. Your efforts to live out these teachings can bring about real change, both in your life and in the lives of others.
For more prayers and Bible verses, check out PrayersFor or use our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.
