1 Peter 4:9

1 Peter 4:9 (KJV): "Use hospitality one to another without grudging."

This verse from Peter's first epistle calls believers to practice genuine, selfless hospitality within the Christian community and beyond. It is a direct command, emphasizing both the action of welcoming others and the crucial attitude with which it should be done.

Context

First Peter 4:9 is situated within a broader passage (1 Peter 4:7-11) that exhorts believers on how to live in light of the approaching end of all things. Peter urges his audience, who were scattered and facing increasing persecution, to be sober-minded, watchful in prayer, and above all, to have fervent love for one another (1 Peter 4:8). Hospitality is presented not merely as a social custom but as a vital expression of this deep, active love, especially crucial for a community under duress where mutual support was essential for survival and spiritual flourishing. It’s a practical outworking of the fervent love Peter just mentioned.

Key Themes

• Biblical Hospitality: The command to "use hospitality" (Greek: philoxenia, φιλoξενία) literally means "love of strangers." In the ancient world, it was a vital virtue, often involving opening one's home to travelers, missionaries, or those in need, as there were no public inns as we know them today. It extended beyond mere entertaining to providing shelter, food, and companionship. It’s an act of selfless service that reflects God’s own welcoming nature towards us. This resonates with the broader biblical call to "distribute to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality" (Romans 12:13).
• Without Grudging: The phrase "without grudging" (Greek: aneu goggysmou, ἄνευ γογγυσμοῦ) is equally significant. It means "without murmuring," "grumbling," or "complaining." This emphasizes the importance of the attitude behind the act. True Christian hospitality is not reluctantly offered out of obligation or a desire for recognition, but cheerfully and willingly from a heart of love. This aligns with the principle of cheerful giving found in 2 Corinthians 9:7.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for hospitality, philoxenia (φιλoξενία), is a compound of philos (friend, love) and xenos (stranger). It highlights the counter-cultural nature of this virtue in a world often hostile to outsiders. It’s about making a stranger feel like a friend, demonstrating genuine care and acceptance. The term "without grudging" translates the Greek phrase aneu goggysmou (ἄνευ γογγυσμοῦ), which vividly conveys the idea of avoiding any internal resentment or outward complaining that would negate the spirit of the gift. It speaks to the inner disposition of the host.

Practical Application

In modern times, hospitality extends beyond literal room and board, though that remains vital. It encompasses creating a welcoming environment in our homes, churches, and communities. It means:

• Opening our homes: Inviting new believers, singles, families, or those in need for meals, fellowship, or even temporary stays.
• Extending welcome: Actively seeking out and embracing newcomers in church or social settings, making them feel seen and valued.
• Serving with joy: Performing acts of kindness, whether big or small, with a cheerful and willing spirit, not out of duty or a desire for repayment.
• Overcoming barriers: Challenging our own comfort zones, busyness, or desire for perfection, to genuinely connect with others.

This verse reminds believers that hospitality is a tangible expression of Christian love and a powerful witness to God's welcoming nature. It builds community, provides support, and reflects the heart of Christ who welcomed all who came to Him.