HOSPITALITY by C. H. Bliss

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 6, 1876

HOSPITALITY

By C. H. Bliss

The duty of using hospitality one toward another is clearly set forth in the Scriptures. Says Paul: “Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.” Rom 12:13. This should be done without grudging: “Use hospitality one to another without grudging.” 1 Pet. 4:9. It should also be manifested toward strangers: “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Heb. 13:2. While these duties are clearly taught as devolving upon all, there are also certain duties required of those who are entertained. The apostle says, “I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you.” 2 Cor. 11:9.

Christians receiving Christian hospitality ought to assist in bearing burdens instead of being burdensome. In bearing these burdens there ought to be equality. But how does this correspond with what we often see? For instance: A poor brother lives near the church where it is handy for the brethren to call in and get dinner and feed their horses. He being free-hearted and unselfish (as he ought to be) gladly receives them; and nearly all the brethren living a few miles from the church avail themselves of this opportunity. His provision and horse-feed are used freely Sabbath after Sabbath. Is it right that he should be thus burdened while others are eased?

This matter can be easily remedied. Let our brethren who come to quarterly meeting, when it is possible, bring some feed and provision. Then they may be able to say, as one anciently while seeking hospitality from his brethren, There is both straw and provender and bread. There is no want of anything. Judges 19:19.

C. H. Bliss.