Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do for the brethren and for strangers…we therefore ought to receive such, that we may become fellow workers for the truth.
3 John 1:5-8
In the New Testament, we often admire apostles like Peter for his preaching, Paul for his knowledge of the Scriptures, and John for his close relationship with the Lord. However, we sometimes overlook those whose contributions were less visible but equally vital to the early church. One such person is Gaius, the recipient of the third epistle of John. Although little is known about him beyond this letter, Gaius left a significant impression on the apostle. John commends him for his Christian virtues lived out according to God’s truth, his faithful service, his love for the saints, and welcoming strangers. Gaius was particularly noted for his hospitality—a practice that supported the ministry of God’s Word. I have come to personally appreciate him as someone who lived out an exemplary Christian life through a practical ministry, one to which we can all aspire. John recognized Gaius as a “fellow worker” for the truth. What a wonderful way to encourage him and express how needful his ministry was.
Ministries Supporting One Another
Paul reminds us that the body of Christ is made up of many parts, each with its own important function (1 Cor. 12:12, 14). While we often focus on public ministries like preaching, teaching or evangelism, support roles are essential. We do not know if Gaius held an authoritative position or was gifted with any type of public ministry, but of one thing we are certain; his actions spoke louder than words.
Re-evaluating the Role of Hospitality
Gaius lived out what Paul urged: “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality” (Rom. 12:13, NIV). In many North American assemblies today, hospitality is undervalued. Have we become too focused on the privacy of our homes, losing the biblical sense of fellowship and connectedness? Perhaps it is time to re-evaluate the importance of hospitality for the ministry and unity of the Church and recognize how valuable it is for the overall health and wellbeing of our local assemblies (Gal. 6:9-10).
Hospitality is a Practice
One surprising truth regarding hospitality is that it is not listed as one of the spiritual gifts (Rom. 12; 1 Cor. 12). We often refer to someone as being “given to hospitality” as though it is their spiritual gift. However, Scripture teaches that hospitality is something all believers are called to exercise, not just a select few. Hospitality is a practice that can be developed into a skill. If we are to pursue biblical hospitality, we need to follow the teaching of the early church apostles and the example of Gaius, practicing hospitality as an expression of our love for the saints.
The Selfless Service of Hospitality
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus…He made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant… NIV
Phil. 2:5, 7
Hospitality is one of the best ways to grow in an understanding of what it means to be Christ-like in service. The characteristic of a servant is selflessness, prioritizing the necessities of others. The ability to put oneself in another’s shoes, knowing their needs without them asking, is a valuable skill. Paul defines Christlike service best in Philippians 2:3-4: “…In humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (NIV)
The spirit of hospitality cannot be selfish; it shares what the Lord has generously given so that others may benefit. The agape love that Gaius expressed to the brethren in his care was characterized by unconditional selfless sacrifice. We are to show hospitality to one another without grumbling (1 Pet. 4:9). If we catch ourselves complaining or whining while serving others, it is a clear red flag that we are not embodying a Christlike spirit. In these moments, we should immediately turn to the Lord to seek a change of heart. Hospitality can be a lot of work, and it might interrupt our lives, but it is a service for our Lord, and contributes to building His Church. Who are we serving, our Savior or ourselves?
Hospitality and the Stranger
Twice in the New Testament hospitality is connected to receiving strangers; people with whom we are not familiar (Heb. 13:2; 3 John 1:5). Normally we would not hesitate to host family or close friends in our homes, but biblical hospitality aims to treat everyone equally (Jam. 2:1–4). It causes us to step out of our comfort zone, which is a much-needed discipline. As we share the same love for Christ and hope for eternity together, why would we be reluctant to welcome fellow brothers and sisters in Christ whom we do not know (Luke 6:33)?
A Family Affair
There is an ancient middle eastern custom called “a salt covenant.” It is about extending courtesy to those who enter one’s home. According to the custom, when a visitor comes under your roof, they become a part of the family circle. The host is obligated to generously provide for and protect them. The Arabic expression “there is salt between us” signifies partaking in hospitality which cements friendships. As believers in Christ, we would do well to perceive biblical hospitality in the same way. This viewpoint takes the family into account, making it a family activity where children can watch and have the chance to take part, helping them to understand the importance of hospitality.
Responsibility of All
A common misperception about hospitality is that it is predominantly a feminine role. In truth, the Bible teaches that men are specifically called to practice hospitality. 1 Timothy 3:2 and Titus 1:8 list hospitality as a qualification for male church leadership. As heads of their households, husbands and fathers have a responsibility to open their homes and involve their families in the life of the church. Therefore, hospitality is not limited to women or specific individuals. All believers should consider how to incorporate hospitality into their walk of faith.
Practicing Hospitality
Heed Hospitality – Recognize the need for it. There is nothing that builds relationships more than inviting someone into your home and getting to know them on a deeper level. Church meetings alone are not enough to foster meaningful relationships. Hospitality can be a tool to unify the Body of Christ.
Habitual Hospitality – Make it a habit to open your home to others. The more often you do it, the easier and more natural it will become.
Handling Hospitality – Do not confine hospitality to a specific form. Perceiving it only as “this is how my mother did it,” we might find ourselves trying to live up to self-induced expectations we cannot meet. Explore what works best for you. If you are single, on a fixed income, or have limited resources, hospitality can still be simple and meaningful. For example, something as simple as meeting at a coffee shop can be an act of hospitality.
Honing Hospitality – Learn from each experience. Think of ways to make others feel comfortable and meet their needs. Make it enjoyable, not burdensome. Be teachable, learn from observing how others approach it.
Homework for Hospitality – Give it a try. Decide who, where, and when, then follow through. Learn from the experience and do not wait too long to try again. Monthly, challenge yourself to invite new people, trying to connect with those you do not usually interact with.
Hospitality plays a vital role in building up the body of Christ. By opening our homes and hearts to others, we contribute to the health and vibrancy of our local churches as “fellow workers for the truth.” If we begin to see all aspects of church life as equally important, we will cultivate healthier, more unified assemblies of believers.