The Greek word filoxenoi (“philoxenia”) is a compound word from “phileo” (brotherly love) and xenos (stranger), hence the meaning “the love of strangers”. (Often we experience what we call “xenophobia” - the fear of strangers.)

How is this idea illustrated in the following passages?

Job 31:32

Matthew 25:35

Romans 12:13

Hebrews 13:2

“Hospitality wants to offer friendship without binding the guest and freedom without leaving him alone. Hospitality is the creation of a free space where the stranger can enter and become a friend instead of an enemy.” Henri Nouwen

1 Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:8

Why would it be important for an elder to be hospitable?

What does it tell you about someone when they are willing to open their home to others, especially strangers?

		“Accept one another, then just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” Romans 15:7

The Greek word “proslambano” (proslambanesqe) means “to actively welcome into one’s society or circle of friends”. Look up these verses to see this principle in action:

Acts 18:26

Acts 28:2

Romans 14:1

Philemon 17

Life Response: So what does this mean to me?

1. When in your life did you feel really out-of-place? What was it like being the “new kid” on the first day of school? Did anyone help you fit in? 2. Name three people who have accepted you for who you are. 3. On a scale of 1 - 10, are you a naturally accepting person? Who do you find it hard to accept? 4. To what extent have you opened your home to people? A night? A week? A month? What was that experience like? What did it do for the guest? What did it do for you?