Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Romans 12:13

"communicating to the necessities of the saints; given to hospitality." — Romans 12:13 (ASV)

Even under persecution we should not allow ourselves to be so preoccupied with our own troubles that we become insensitive to the needs of other believers. To share our earthly goods with others is never more meaningful than when people are hard pressed to find sufficient supplies for themselves. When this sharing takes place under one’s own roof, it is labeled “hospitality” (lit., “love for strangers”; GK 5810). The word “practice” is strong (lit., “pursue”; GK 1503), calling for an undiminished ardor in extending this courtesy to traveling believers. The Lord had encouraged his disciples to depend on such kindness during their mission (Matthew 10:11). Without hospitality, the spread of the Gospel during the days of the early church would have been greatly impeded. With it, the “church in the house” became a reality (16:23; cf. l6:5). What sanctified this practice above all was the realization that in receiving and entertaining travelers, those who opened their doors and their hearts were receiving and entertaining Christ (Matthew 10:40; Matthew 25:40).