Welcoming is a pivotal theme in the Bible that revolves around the acceptance and warm reception of others, regardless of individual differences. This primary biblical teaching not only centers on the encouragement of hospitality but places emphasis on genuine embracing of everyone, from foreigners to the disadvantaged. The concept of welcoming brings forth the attributes of love, humility, peace, and unity, ultimately establishing the guideline for us to follow the same path.
What role does welcoming play in the Bible?
The critical role of welcoming is inherent in biblical teachings. It symbolizes an open heart, calling on the followers to open their homes and hearts to everyone, without bias. While illustrating the importance of acceptance, the Bible imparts lessons on how the act of welcoming can foster closer connections with others and with God. It teaches us to practice hospitality not just for the friends and family, but even strangers, as, in doing so, we indirectly serve God Himself. In essence, the Bible’s take on welcoming acts as a spiritual guideline for how we should treat each other.
Why is welcoming others essential according to the Bible?
The Bible emphasizes the significance of welcoming others as it embodies the very essence of love, kindness and generosity. To welcome is to love unconditionally, and God is synonymous with unconditional love. In biblical context, to be hospitable is not only a means to serve others, but it’s a reflection of our love for God, and a measure of our obedience to His teachings. By welcoming others, we are living in the likeness of Jesus and depicting the teachings He instilled in His followers.
Who is called to practice welcoming in the Bible?
According to the Bible, everyone is called upon to practice the act of welcoming. It is not limited to those with an abundance of resources or a specific social status. Even the least among us can extend a welcoming gesture to others. The focus is not on what we give, but the love, respect, and kindness inherent in the act of giving. The underlying message is that the demonstration of God’s love should be a part of who we are, permeating every interaction and relationship.
When should we practice the act of welcoming according to the Bible?
The Bible implies that the practice of welcoming should be a constant in our lives. There isn’t a specific time or place designated for hospitality. Our homes are to be open, our hearts ready to receive others, and our hands prepared to serve at all times. From the biblical perspective, every encounter is an opportunity for a welcoming gesture, every stranger a chance to show unconditional love, and every shared meal an occasion to bless and be blessed.
Where in the Bible is the concept of welcoming articulated?
The concept of welcoming is deeply embedded in numerous passages throughout the Bible. From the Old Testament teachings emphasizing hospitality and kindness to foreigners, to Jesus Himself exemplifying the act of welcoming in the New Testament by openly receiving everyone without prejudice. These biblical accounts serve as a beacon, guiding us in our relationships with others, and spotlight the continuous need for acceptance, kindness, and compassionate interactions in our lives.
Below is our full list of bible verses on welcoming (King James Version – KJV) provided in ranked order.
Most Popular Bible Verses About Welcoming
Romans 15:7
“7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.”
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Galatians 3:28
“28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”
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1 Peter 4:9
“9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging.”
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Romans 12:13
“13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.”
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Matthew 25:35
“35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:”
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Hebrews 13:2
“2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”
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Acts 10:34
“34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:”
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Matthew 25:40
“40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
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3 John 1:5
“5 Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers;”
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Luke 10:27
“27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.”
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Romans 13:8
“8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.”
Ephesians 2:10
“10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”
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Leviticus 19:33-34
“33 And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him.34 But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.”
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Leviticus 19:34
“34 But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.”
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Matthew 5:43-44
“43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;”
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Matthew 25:34
“34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:”
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Deuteronomy 10:19
“19 Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.”
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John 14:2
“2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.”
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Romans 13:10
“10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.”
Revelation 21:3
“3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.”
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