13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
This verse shows that Christians have a responsibility to share what God has given them in two ways:
Financially support Christians in need.
Pursue opportunities to show hospitality.
13 Contribute to the needs of the saints
There are times when Christians face financial difficulties. There is a point where it is important for fellow believers not only to share their spiritual blessings but also their material blessings (Ro 15:27).
Ga 6:6, Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches.
Php 4:15,Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only.
1 Ti 6:17,Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18 Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share,
and seek [aspire] to show hospitality.
The ideas of contributing to the needs of the saints and showing hospitality are closely linked—both involve giving to those in need.
In the ancient world hospitality was an important social dimension. Travel was dangerous, so people needed a safe place to lodge, especially itinerate evangelists and Bible teachers. Inns were few and far between and carried an image of ill repute.
The issue in hospitality is not social interaction among friends but facilitating people in ministry. We are to “seek” this opportunity to serve others; that is, take initiative in this matter. The word “seek” is a very strong Greek word—to pursue.
PRINCIPLE:
God expects us to share our resources.
APPLICATION:
Many people today view hospitality as an inconvenience. However, God wants us to use our resources and homes as places of support. We are to take initiative in this pursuit.
1 Pe 4:9,Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.
