What does Hebrews 13:2 mean?
This part of chapter 13 includes several practical, specific instructions from the writer. After using most of the book to explain the supremacy of the new covenant, the writer then turns to applying that knowledge. The prior verse referred to the need for "brotherly love." In a scriptural context, this means an active, selfless, lived-out care for fellow believers. This kind of behavior is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a hallmark of genuine Christian faith (John 15:12; 1 John 4:20).Jesus taught that every word or action we take in this life is subject to scrutiny by God (Matthew 12:36). He also explained that how we treat others says much about how much we truly love Him (Matthew 10:40–42). Christ even tied this expectation of good works to how we treat the needy, strangers, and those in prison (Matthew 25:34–40). This passage in Hebrews touches on a very similar set of persons: fellow believers (Hebrews 13:1), strangers, and those in prison (Hebrews 13:3).
The suggestion that our behavior towards strangers might be directed at angels is not a random thought. Scripture makes reference to actual instances where people were visited by angels, seemingly unaware of to whom they were speaking (Genesis 18:1–3; 19:1–3).
