The Greek word hypodéchomai, represented by G5264, means to admit under one's roof, i.e. entertain hospitably. It is derived from ὑπό and δέχομαι. This specific term appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible, highlighting key instances of reception and hospitality that carry significant personal and theological weight.
In the biblical narrative, G5264 is used to describe the pivotal act of welcoming someone. Martha received him into her house Luke 10:38, and another man received him joyfully after coming down from a tree Luke 19:6. The term also frames hospitality as an act of faith and risk. Rahab the harlot was considered justified when she had received the messengers James 2:25. Similarly, Jason is accused by his opponents because he hath received men who were proclaiming Jesus as king, an act viewed as defying Caesar Acts 17:7.
Several related words help define the circumstances surrounding the act of receiving:
- G1525 eisérchomai (to enter): This is the action that precedes reception. Before Martha could receive Jesus, he first had to enter into her village Luke 10:38.
- G3624 oîkos (a dwelling... a family... home, house): This specifies the location of the welcome. Martha received Jesus into her house, providing a physical place of shelter and hospitality Luke 10:38.
- G32 ángelos (a messenger; especially an "angel"): This term identifies those being welcomed. Rahab's justifying work of faith involved her choice to receive the messengers James 2:25.
- G1544 ekbállō (to eject): As a direct contrast, this word appears alongside G5264 in the account of Rahab, who not only received the messengers but also had sent them out another way, emphasizing the totality of her protective actions James 2:25.
The theological weight of G5264 is centered on hospitality as a demonstration of faith and allegiance.
- A Work of Justification: The act of receiving others is shown to be an outward sign of inner faith. Rahab was "justified by works" specifically when she received the messengers, connecting hospitality directly to a right standing James 2:25.
- A Personal Reception of Christ: The term is used for the personal and willing welcome given to Jesus himself. Martha received him into her home Luke 10:38, and another received him joyfully Luke 19:6, modeling an open and active response to his presence.
- A Declaration of Allegiance: To receive believers was to make a dangerous declaration. Jason's choice to receive men preaching the gospel was seen as an act "contrary to the decrees of Caesar," because it affirmed allegiance to "another king, one Jesus" Acts 17:7.
In summary, G5264 is far more than a simple word for "receive." It signifies a crucial and deliberate act of welcome. Through the examples of Martha, Rahab, and Jason, scripture uses this term to illustrate that opening one's home is an expression of faith, an act of justification, and a powerful statement of allegiance to the kingdom of God, even at great personal risk.
TRV