Hebrews 13:2 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

NIV: Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.

NASB: Do not neglect hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.

CSB: Don’t neglect to show hospitality, for by doing this some have welcomed angels as guests without knowing it.

NLT: Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!

KJV: Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

NKJV: Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.

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).

Hebrews 13:1–6 contains practical, real-world instructions for Christian believers. These mirror some of the more common themes in the New Testament. Brotherly love, hospitality, care for the abused, sexual morality, and contentment are all commended. The writer ties the ability to be content, and faithful, to our trust in Christ to be there with us, and for us, in all of our circumstances. This grounding is strengthened in the following passage.

Chapters 1—9 explained how the new covenant in Jesus Christ is superior to the old covenant of animal sacrifices. This comparison drew on extensive use of Old Testament Scripture. Chapters 10––12 applied that evidence to encourage Christians to ''hold fast'' despite persecution. The summary of these applications was that believers ought to trust in their faith, and choose to obey God, during times of struggle. Chapter 13 adds a few specific reminders about Christian conduct. This passage also reiterates the idea that Christ is meant to be our ultimate example. The letter concludes with a request for prayer and words of blessing.

The last chapter of the book of Hebrews follows a pattern common in New Testament books, especially those written by Paul. The writer gave extensive evidence in chapters 1––9 to support a central idea. This concept was that the new covenant, in Jesus Christ, is superior to the old covenant, composed of the Levitical laws. Chapters 10¬-––12 applied this knowledge to the need for persecuted Christians to maintain their faith. Here, in chapter 13, the writer offers a few specific encouragements for the reader, before signing off with a request for prayer and a benediction.

The book of Hebrews is meant to challenge, encourage, and empower Christian believers. According to this letter, Jesus Christ is superior to all other prophets and all other claims to truth. Since God has given us Christ, we ought to listen to what He says and not move backwards. The consequences of ignoring God are dire. Hebrews is important for drawing on many portions of the Old Testament in making a case that Christ is the ultimate and perfect expression of God's plan for mankind. This book presents some tough ideas about the Christian faith, a fact the author makes specific note of.