Hospitality and the Christian:

A Christian is someone who welcomes others with kindness and an open heart. This is important because all people are created in the image of God, and we honor Him when we show love and respect to those around us. We are even called to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44; Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:8-9).

Paul encourages his readers and listeners to accept one another, come together in unity, and support one another—qualities that members of the body of Christ should cultivate. What do these qualities look like? As Paul concludes his letter, he provides a glimpse of these characteristics: be welcoming in a manner worthy of the saints; help one another in whatever is needed; risk your lives for one another; work hard for one another; greet one another with a holy kiss (Romans 16:1-16). This calls for creating a loving family environment where we look out for each other’s best interests, fostering an atmosphere suitable for growth. When we invest in our community, we are, in fact, investing in our own lives; as we bless others, we too are blessed (Jeremiah 29:7; Matthew 7:12).

In this chapter, Paul makes an appeal for the preservation of unity and the protection of the family of Christ. He emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and on the lookout for those who cause division and create obstacles to unity and gospel-centered living. We have been taught by the apostles to live lives that reflect Christ—lives that are selfless and sacrificial. Sometimes, living this way comes at our own expense. We are not called to be doormats but to be diligent in watching for those who may attempt to divide the family of Christ and live lives opposed to the gospel.

How can we identify whom to watch out for? First, we should look at ourselves (Psalm 139:23-24). When we come before the Lord and know Him, we will be able to recognize counterfeit fruits and lovingly confront others for their sake and the sake of the church (Matthew 7:15-20; Matthew 18:15-20). As Paul teaches, our attitude should be to put others first. We need to be aware of those who prioritize their own interests without considering others. Their fruits may seem good, but they could be rotten at the core.

A good measure of a person’s character is their willingness to lay down their rights, hurts, and positions for the sake of the cross. This is a life lived in love, ready to sacrifice for unity. We are called to build the church and help it grow into His likeness; we must build it up rather than tear it down (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Build the Church, build one another for His glory and our good.

Thus concludes these reflections from the book of Romans.

Paul’s Closing Doxology – Our Prayer:
Lord, may we be strengthened in You according to the gospel and committed to the obedience of faith. Unite us together as one, representing You rightly to a world in need of good news.