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Hebrews 13:2
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
To entertain stranger's - In those early times, when there were scarcely any public inns or houses of entertainment, it was an office of charity and mercy to receive, lodge, and entertain travelers; and this is what the apostle particularly recommends. Entertained angels - Abraham and Lot are the persons particularly referred to. Their history, the angels whom they entertained, not knowing them to be such, and the good they derived from exercising their hospitality on these occasions, are well known; and have been particularly referred to in the notes on Gen 18:3 (note); Gen 19:2 (note).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Be not forgetful to entertain strangers,.... By whom are meant, not unconverted men, who are strangers to God and Christ, and the covenants of promise; nor saints, who are as pilgrims and strangers in this world; but such as are of another country, and are unknown; and even though wicked men, they are not excluded; though such as are obliged to quit their own country for righteousness sake are chiefly designed; all strangers in distress are meant, and hospitality is to be exercised towards them; which lies negatively in doing nothing to distress them, and positively in providing food, raiment, lodging, &c. for them, and in comforting, counselling, and directing them in all matters in which they may stand in need thereof: and that this is a duty, appears from the light of nature, and practices of the Heathens, Act 28:2, from the express law of God, Deu 10:19 and many others made in favour of strangers, binding on the Jews; from the sundry exhortations to it in the New Testament, Rom 12:13 and from the exhortation here not to forget it; and from the great regard which Christ will show to such as mind it, and his disregard to others at the last day: the persons who are to exercise it are not only the ministers of the Gospel, who should be given to hospitality; but all the saints, even the meaner sort are not exempted, but should use it according to their ability; though it is chiefly binding on those that are rich. And this should not be forgot, but pursued and followed after; it should be frequently performed; men should be given, and used to it; it should be done without grudging, and in a friendly and loving manner: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares; as Abraham, Gen 18:1, he knew them not to be angels at first; they appeared as men, and he treated them as such; but they were angels, yea, one of them was Jehovah himself; and hereby he received many favours, Gen 18:10, and Lot, Gen 19:1 who knew not that they were angels he took into his house; but they were, and he was delivered by them from the burning of Sodom; yea, some have unawares, this way, entertained Christ himself, Luk 24:15 and indeed, entertaining of his members is entertaining him, Mat 25:38. It is an observation of a Jewish writer (r) upon the first of these instances; "from hence we learn (says he) how great is the strength (or virtue) of the reception of travellers (or hospitality), as the Rabbins of blessed memory say, greater is , "hospitality", than the reception of the face of the Shechinah.'' And this is said to be one of the six things which a man enjoys the fruit of in this world, and for which there remains a reward in the world to come (s). (r) R. Abraham Seba in Tzeror Hammor, fol. 18, 4. (s) T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 127. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:2 Hospitality is another foundational principle in Jewish and Christian ethics (1 Pet 4:9; see also Matt 10:11; Acts 16:15; Titus 3:13; Phlm 1:22; 3 Jn 1:5-8). In the first century, most people did not stay at inns when traveling. • Some . . . have entertained angels: See Gen 18:2-15; Judg 13:2-23.
Hebrews 13:2
Brotherly Love
1Continue in brotherly love.2Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.3Remember those in prison as if you were bound with them, and those who are mistreated as if you were suffering with them.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Gospel, Possessions and Prosperity - Session 1
By David Platt9.2K1:01:59PossessionsMAT 6:33LUK 12:33ROM 3:21HEB 13:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the gospel and its implications for our lives. He highlights five different threads of the gospel, emphasizing that our actions are a response to God's grace, not a means of earning favor. The basis, means, and evidence of our salvation are all ultimately involved in judgment before God. The speaker then explores the relationship between the gospel and possessions, examining various passages from the Old and New Testaments. He concludes with 18 different conclusions and 10 applications that summarize what the Bible teaches about the gospel and possessions. The sermon also touches on the reality of lostness in the world and the importance of sharing the gospel with others.
(Through the Bible) Genesis 15-18
By Chuck Smith1.5K53:42ExpositionalGEN 15:1GEN 17:1GEN 18:1GEN 19:22JHN 1:1HEB 13:2In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Abraham and his encounter with three men, who are believed to be angels. Abraham shows great hospitality to them, offering them water, food, and rest. The preacher emphasizes the importance of entertaining strangers, as we never know if we might be entertaining angels unaware. The sermon also touches on God's promise to Abraham that his descendants will be strangers in a foreign land and will be afflicted for four hundred years. The preacher suggests that this affliction may not necessarily be in Egypt, but rather a round figure of four hundred and thirty years from the time of God's promise.
Few Find the Way to Life - Part 2
By Zac Poonen1.2K09:15PRO 16:18MAT 23:12ROM 12:16PHP 2:3HEB 4:12HEB 13:2JAS 4:61PE 5:5This sermon addresses the importance of knowing and understanding the Bible, emphasizing the need to base our beliefs and arguments on God's Word rather than personal opinions. It also highlights the danger of pride and haughtiness, urging humility and genuine fellowship with all believers, regardless of social status or education. The speaker warns against making hasty decisions like Esau, who traded his birthright for temporary satisfaction, stressing the significance of valuing spiritual blessings over immediate desires.
Why Christ Became a Servant of the Jews
By John Piper1.1K31:09Welcoming OthersUnity in ChristMRK 10:45JHN 3:36ROM 14:1ROM 15:72CO 1:20GAL 3:28EPH 2:19PHP 2:3HEB 13:21PE 4:9John Piper emphasizes that Christ became a servant to the Jews to fulfill God's promises and to demonstrate His truthfulness, urging the church to welcome one another across differences, including ethnicity. He highlights the importance of community and hospitality, encouraging believers to open their hearts and homes to each other for the glory of God. Piper connects the welcoming nature of the church to the example set by Christ, who served both Jews and Gentiles, ultimately leading to the glorification of God for His mercy. The sermon calls for unity and acceptance within the church, transcending cultural and personal barriers.
Surrounded by Angels
By Basilea Schlink68604:35Radio ShowGEN 28:122KI 6:16PSA 91:11MAT 6:33LUK 4:10ACT 12:7HEB 13:2In this sermon transcript titled "Surrounded by Angels," Basilia Schlink shares her experiences of ministering in slum areas with a traveling chapel. Despite facing threats and attacks from a rough gang, Schlink and her team relied on the power of prayer and the promise of God's angels to protect them. They witnessed the fulfillment of Psalm 91:11, as the gang members inexplicably stayed away from their bus during a planned attack. This experience strengthened their faith and belief in the power of God's angels to overcome darkness and provide security.
(Through the Bible) Genesis - Part 2
By Zac Poonen52556:13GEN 15:6GEN 17:1GEN 22:12JER 17:7LUK 17:34ROM 10:17PHP 3:3HEB 11:8HEB 13:2This sermon delves into the life of Abraham, showcasing his journey of faith, obedience, and the consequences of both listening to God and following human advice. It emphasizes the importance of saying 'Amen' to God's word, learning from mistakes, and being dedicated to God's will. The sermon also highlights the contrast between the ways of Babylon, symbolizing human reliance, and the ways of Jerusalem, symbolizing faith and trust in God.
Unreached Peoples: The Tajik People of Central Asia
By Paul Hattaway48000:00PSA 34:18PRO 18:24ROM 12:13HEB 13:21PE 4:9This sermon focuses on the history, culture, and people of the Tajik community in Central Asia, highlighting their resilience, unique heritage, and warm hospitality. It explores their ancient roots, cultural expressions through poetry, music, and art, as well as the diversity within the Tajik population across different countries. The sermon emphasizes the importance of friendship, hospitality, and unity among the Tajik people despite their varied political, religious, and economic circumstances.
Homeless
By Ingimar De Ridder1MAT 7:24LUK 9:58JHN 1:112CO 8:9HEB 13:2Ingimar De Ridder preaches about the homelessness of Jesus, emphasizing how He identified with the lost and rejected by being born in a stable, seeking shelter as a refugee, and sleeping under the canopy of heaven. Through Christ's homelessness, we learn the importance of hospitality, love, and recognizing that this world is not our permanent home but a pilgrimage towards eternity. The sermon highlights the significance of dedicating our homes to God, welcoming Jesus in, and building a solid foundation of faith to avoid being spiritually homeless.
At the Gate of the Monastery
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 31:20GAL 5:13COL 3:23HEB 13:21PE 4:9St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of hospitality and service within the monastery, appointing a wise old woman as the porter to receive and give messages with maturity and meekness. The porter is instructed to promptly attend to those who come to the gate, responding with gratitude and warmth, inspired by the fear of God and charity. St. Benedict also highlights the need for the monastery to be self-sufficient, providing all necessary resources within the enclosure to prevent the sisters from wandering outside, which may not be beneficial for their spiritual well-being. The Rule of St. Benedict is to be frequently read in the community to ensure that all sisters are aware of their responsibilities.
Our Daily Homily - 3 John
By F.B. Meyer0Supporting EvangelismHospitalityMAT 10:40LUK 10:7ROM 12:132CO 9:7GAL 6:10PHP 1:271TH 5:11HEB 13:21PE 4:93JN 1:7F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of supporting traveling evangelists for the sake of the Name of Jesus, urging believers to provide hospitality that reflects God's generosity and grace. He highlights the evangelists' pure motives, as they seek to glorify Christ without seeking support from those who do not share their faith. Meyer encourages the church to welcome such servants of God, reminding them that by doing so, they become fellow-helpers in spreading the truth. The sermon calls for a selfless and gracious attitude in our interactions with both brethren and strangers.
How to Raise a Dead Kid
By Denis Lyle02KI 4:9MAT 10:41ROM 12:13ROM 14:7HEB 6:10HEB 13:21PE 1:15Denis Lyle preaches about the importance of establishing a home with a difference, focusing on the story of the Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 4:8-17. This woman's home was characterized by holiness, known by its geographical position and agricultural prosperity, and recognized for the godliness of Elisha's life. The sermon emphasizes the distinction between positional holiness and practical holiness, urging believers to live distinctive, impressive, and extensive godly lives. Additionally, the sermon highlights the helpfulness found in the Shunammite woman's home, showcasing her practical, regular, and spiritual provision for the servant of God, setting an example of true hospitality. Lastly, the sermon touches on the happiness brought to this home through contentment, service that was noticed and rewarded by God, and the fulfillment of a long-awaited desire for a child.
Pentecostal Homes
By Martin Knapp0GEN 2:24DEU 11:16PSA 128:3ROM 12:131CO 7:14EPH 5:25EPH 6:1HEB 13:2Martin Knapp preaches about the importance of Pentecostal influences in molding faithful, loving, harmonious, believing, fruitful, obedient, kind, and hospitable homes. He emphasizes the divine foundation of marriage, the necessity of husbands loving their wives sacrificially, the obedience of children, and the significance of being right with God before entering into marriage. Knapp warns against marrying unbelievers, reforming partners through marriage, marrying illegally divorced individuals, and marrying for the wrong reasons. He paints a vivid picture of Pentecostal homes as celestial oases in a world of inhospitality, filled with God's protection, mercy, love, and divine truth.
1 Peter 4:9
By John Gill0Love for StrangersHospitalityGEN 18:1LEV 19:34MAT 25:35LUK 10:33ACT 28:7ROM 12:13GAL 6:2HEB 13:21PE 4:91JN 3:17John Gill emphasizes the importance of hospitality in his sermon on 1 Peter 4:9, urging believers to love and care for strangers, particularly those who are displaced for their faith. He explains that hospitality should be shown both by not causing distress to others and by actively providing for their needs, such as food and shelter. Gill highlights biblical examples of hospitality, including Abraham and Lot, and stresses that this practice is not only a natural inclination but also a command from God. He encourages the faithful to embrace hospitality without grudging, viewing it as a vital expression of love and charity among believers, especially those who are strangers to one another.
Circumspectness of His Intercourse With the Other Sex
By Clement of Rome01CO 15:58PHP 4:61TH 4:3HEB 13:2Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of conducting oneself in a Christ-like manner, especially in interactions with maidens and women. He instructs to maintain purity and respect in all relationships, avoiding any compromising situations. Additionally, Clement highlights the significance of seeking rest and fellowship with fellow believers, encouraging mutual support, exhortation, and the pursuit of good works in the fear of God.
A Home With a Difference
By Denis Lyle02KI 4:9MAT 10:41ROM 12:13ROM 14:7HEB 6:10HEB 13:21PE 1:15Denis Lyle preaches about the importance of establishing a home with a difference, focusing on the story of the Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 4:8-17. This woman's home was characterized by holiness, known by its geographical position and agricultural prosperity, and recognized for the godliness of Elisha's life. The sermon emphasizes the practical holiness displayed in everyday life and the need for distinctive, impressive, and extensive godly living. Additionally, the sermon highlights the helpfulness found in the home through the woman's generosity, hospitality, and spiritual provision for Elisha, showcasing the ministry of hospitality urged in the New Testament. Furthermore, the sermon touches on the happiness brought to this home through contentment, service that was noticed and rewarded by God, and the fulfillment of the woman's desire for a child.
Be My Guest
By John Bjorlie0JOB 31:32MAT 10:40LUK 14:12ROM 12:131TI 3:2HEB 13:21PE 4:9John Bjorlie preaches on the importance of hospitality as a crucial element in building Christian community, promoting close, brotherly love, and combating superficial relationships. He emphasizes the biblical teaching on hospitality and challenges believers to consider how they can serve one another better. The sermon highlights the perils and joys of hospitality, encouraging believers to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves in their interactions. Through the study of 'The Hospitality Commands,' believers are urged to move from knowing the doctrine to actively practicing hospitality as a form of obedience to God.
The Matter of Social Duties.
By J.R. Miller0Social DutiesBalance in LifePRO 27:17MAT 5:16JHN 15:12ROM 12:10GAL 6:2PHP 2:4COL 3:231TH 5:11HEB 13:21PE 4:9J.R. Miller addresses the balance of social duties, warning against the extremes of excessive sociability and complete isolation. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal growth through study while also fulfilling obligations to family, church, and society. Miller encourages young people to cultivate a spirit of hospitality and love, reflecting Christ's example of engaging with others while nurturing their own spiritual lives. He asserts that true fulfillment comes from sharing one's blessings with others and being a positive influence in social interactions. Ultimately, he calls for a harmonious blend of self-improvement and social responsibility.
Hebrews 6:13-20
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 5:42LUK 6:36HEB 6:17HEB 13:2John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of compassion and mercy towards the poor and those in need, emphasizing the need to help without judgment or hesitation. He highlights the significance of offering sacrifices of righteousness, praise, and a broken spirit to God, rather than material offerings. Chrysostom encourages believers to imitate the example of Abraham's hospitality towards strangers, reminding them that God rewards acts of kindness and generosity. He urges the congregation to be merciful as their heavenly Father is, feeding and clothing all in need, without discrimination or suspicion.
Let All Guests Who Arrive Be Received Like Christ
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PSA 48:1MAT 25:35COL 3:23HEB 13:21PE 4:9St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of receiving all guests with the same hospitality and honor as if they were receiving Christ Himself, as mentioned in Matthew 25:35. He instructs that guests should be greeted with charitable service, prayer, and the kiss of peace after prayers. The act of showing humility and adoration towards guests is a way of honoring Christ who is present in them. St. Benedict also highlights the significance of caring for the poor and pilgrims, as they represent the presence of Christ in our midst.
Home Blessings
By C.H. Spurgeon0Godly HomesDivine BlessingsJOS 24:15PSA 127:1PSA 128:1PRO 3:33MAT 18:20EPH 6:1COL 3:231TI 5:8HEB 13:21PE 3:7C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the significance of a God-fearing household in his sermon 'Home Blessings,' illustrating that divine protection and blessings are bestowed upon homes led by just individuals, regardless of their material wealth. He highlights that a home filled with love, reverence for God, and holy training becomes a sanctuary of blessings, where even one righteous person can positively influence the entire family. Spurgeon encourages believers to invite Jesus into their homes as a constant presence, ensuring that their lives and interactions reflect justice and integrity, as a just God cannot bless unjust actions.
Let There Be a Separate Kitchen for the Abbot and Guests
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 22:4PHP 2:3COL 3:23HEB 13:21PE 4:9St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of hospitality and order within the monastery, instructing that a separate kitchen be designated for the Abbot and guests to avoid disturbing the brethren. He appoints capable brethren to oversee the kitchen, ensuring they are supported and able to serve without complaint. St. Benedict also highlights the need for diligent work and humility, assigning tasks as needed and requiring respectful interaction with guests, showing reverence and obedience to God's will.
Where to Do Personal Work
By R.A. Torrey0Personal EvangelismOpportunities for WitnessingMRK 2:14LUK 8:39LUK 24:32ACT 8:4HEB 13:2JAS 1:5R.A. Torrey emphasizes the importance of personal work in evangelism, particularly after Gospel meetings, in homes, on the streets, and in various public places. He encourages Christians to actively seek opportunities to engage individuals about their faith, using examples from the Bible, such as the Apostle Paul and Jesus. Torrey highlights that personal work can be done in diverse settings, including parks, workplaces, and even during travel, urging believers to be vigilant and prayerful in their approach. He stresses that every Christian should be prepared to share the Gospel wherever they go, as personal interactions can lead to significant spiritual transformations.
The Danger of Familiarity
By Chip Brogden0MAT 25:40LUK 7:44JHN 13:14COL 3:23HEB 13:2Chip Brogden emphasizes the danger of taking the presence of Jesus for granted, highlighting how familiarity can lead to contempt and a casual attitude towards divine things. He contrasts the actions of a sinful woman who showed reverence and ministered to Jesus with a Pharisee who failed to provide basic courtesies to the Lord. Brogden challenges listeners to not overlook Jesus' needs and to minister to Him with anticipation and reverence, rather than seeking blessings for themselves.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
To entertain stranger's - In those early times, when there were scarcely any public inns or houses of entertainment, it was an office of charity and mercy to receive, lodge, and entertain travelers; and this is what the apostle particularly recommends. Entertained angels - Abraham and Lot are the persons particularly referred to. Their history, the angels whom they entertained, not knowing them to be such, and the good they derived from exercising their hospitality on these occasions, are well known; and have been particularly referred to in the notes on Gen 18:3 (note); Gen 19:2 (note).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Be not forgetful to entertain strangers,.... By whom are meant, not unconverted men, who are strangers to God and Christ, and the covenants of promise; nor saints, who are as pilgrims and strangers in this world; but such as are of another country, and are unknown; and even though wicked men, they are not excluded; though such as are obliged to quit their own country for righteousness sake are chiefly designed; all strangers in distress are meant, and hospitality is to be exercised towards them; which lies negatively in doing nothing to distress them, and positively in providing food, raiment, lodging, &c. for them, and in comforting, counselling, and directing them in all matters in which they may stand in need thereof: and that this is a duty, appears from the light of nature, and practices of the Heathens, Act 28:2, from the express law of God, Deu 10:19 and many others made in favour of strangers, binding on the Jews; from the sundry exhortations to it in the New Testament, Rom 12:13 and from the exhortation here not to forget it; and from the great regard which Christ will show to such as mind it, and his disregard to others at the last day: the persons who are to exercise it are not only the ministers of the Gospel, who should be given to hospitality; but all the saints, even the meaner sort are not exempted, but should use it according to their ability; though it is chiefly binding on those that are rich. And this should not be forgot, but pursued and followed after; it should be frequently performed; men should be given, and used to it; it should be done without grudging, and in a friendly and loving manner: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares; as Abraham, Gen 18:1, he knew them not to be angels at first; they appeared as men, and he treated them as such; but they were angels, yea, one of them was Jehovah himself; and hereby he received many favours, Gen 18:10, and Lot, Gen 19:1 who knew not that they were angels he took into his house; but they were, and he was delivered by them from the burning of Sodom; yea, some have unawares, this way, entertained Christ himself, Luk 24:15 and indeed, entertaining of his members is entertaining him, Mat 25:38. It is an observation of a Jewish writer (r) upon the first of these instances; "from hence we learn (says he) how great is the strength (or virtue) of the reception of travellers (or hospitality), as the Rabbins of blessed memory say, greater is , "hospitality", than the reception of the face of the Shechinah.'' And this is said to be one of the six things which a man enjoys the fruit of in this world, and for which there remains a reward in the world to come (s). (r) R. Abraham Seba in Tzeror Hammor, fol. 18, 4. (s) T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 127. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:2 Hospitality is another foundational principle in Jewish and Christian ethics (1 Pet 4:9; see also Matt 10:11; Acts 16:15; Titus 3:13; Phlm 1:22; 3 Jn 1:5-8). In the first century, most people did not stay at inns when traveling. • Some . . . have entertained angels: See Gen 18:2-15; Judg 13:2-23.