“Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.” – Hebrews 13:2
Bible Verses About Accepting Strangers
Welcoming Others
We are called to open our hearts and doors to those around us, especially strangers. Welcoming others is a reflection of our faith and a testament to God’s love. When we accept strangers into our lives, we practice kindness and hospitality, reflecting the very nature of Christ. Our ability to welcome others into our space fosters community and connection. Jesus continuously welcomed those who were different, reminding us to do the same. By accepting strangers, we make an important statement about our character and our faith in action.
Hebrews 13:2
“Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.” – Hebrews 13:2
Romans 15:7
“Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” – Romans 15:7
1 Peter 4:9
“Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” – 1 Peter 4:9
Luke 14:13
“But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind.” – Luke 14:13
Matthew 25:35
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.” – Matthew 25:35
God’s Love for All
God calls us to love everyone without exception, and accepting strangers is a critical part of this commandment. Every person we encounter is created in God’s image, deserving of love and respect. By opening our hearts, we express God’s universal love, breaking down barriers and fostering relationships. As we reflect on God’s inclusion in our lives, we acknowledge how crucial it is to extend that same love to others. Our acceptance shines a light on the grace that God tirelessly gives to all of us.
Acts 10:34
“Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism.’” – Acts 10:34
Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:28
Romans 10:12
“For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him.” – Romans 10:12
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
1 John 4:20
“Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.” – 1 John 4:20
Acts of Kindness
Our kindness is a powerful way to show acceptance to strangers. The Bible encourages us to perform acts of kindness, reflecting the heart of Christ. By offering help, love, and support, we demonstrate the love that God showers upon us. Small gestures often have profound impacts, inviting others into community and fellowship. We can be the hands and feet of Jesus in our interactions with strangers, reminding us to always offer grace and compassion.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Luke 6:31
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” – Luke 6:31
Proverbs 19:17
“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done.” – Proverbs 19:17
James 2:15-16
“Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about