The Gifts of the Holy Spirit: - Vital Christianity

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found hospices, by this time run by religious orders, the only reputable guest houses of
the era. Soon after the Crusades most of these institutions began to specialize in the
care of the poor, sick, aged, and crippled. During the 15th century, secular interests
took over most entertaining of travelers, so the hospital restricted its function to care
and treatment of the sick and handicapped. But originally it meant a haven for guests.” 32
Prerequisite
“Without grumbling” (I Pet. 4:9). When the demands for hospitality become frequent and
demanding we must not give in to the temptation to be resentful and complaining. There is always
the problem of guests overstaying or abusing their host’s welcome. Hospitality must be looked
upon as an opportunity to show love to people in need no matter how they respond.
False teachers were not to receive hospitality. Such lodging was really a form of support.
Providing hospitality to genuine teachers helped spread the truth, but helping false teachers spread
error and falsehood. Truth was not to be sacrificed for showing love through hospitality (II Jn.
10-11).
Diotraphes was rebuked for not practicing hospitality and excommunicating those who did.
(III Jn. 10)
The Didache (The Teaching of the Twelve), which was written between A. D. 80 and 120,
states that any traveling preacher who stayed more than two days or who asked for money for
himself is a false teacher or prophet. Anyone who wished to settle down in a community was
required to earn his living with a craft. Not to do so was to be considered “trafficking on Christ”
or using religion for selfish gain.
Its Importance
“For the Early Church to begin to get the Gospel out to the ends of the world required
travel. In addition, business pursuits took many believers to all parts of the Roman
Empire. Though the empire was known for its good roads, finding suitable places to
stay was difficult. . . . Since robbers and other dangers lurked along the way, since
ancient inns were often nothing but brothels, and since most itinerant preachers were
poor, Christians were exhorted to open their homes and welcome as guest those
bearing the Good News. Thus, hospitality furthered the Gospel.” 33
When Jesus sent out the twelve apostles and later the seventy, He expected them to be given
hospitality (Mt. 10:11). In fact, He considered refusal to provide lodging for His messengers the
same as rejection of their message (Mt. 10:14-15). Jesus said that to accept His messengers was