Persecute Strangers with Love
Introduction
Just by glancing at the title, you may need clarification about the content of this article. I assure you, this isn’t a call to inflict harm. Quite the opposite; it is a call for Christians to extend beyond being simply kind and friendly when strangers cross their paths. It is a clarion call to pursue hospitality and opportunities to show love to outsiders actively. The crux of this argument is that churches and individual Christians are charged to exceed the typical, passive kindness often displayed and to actively seek ways to love strangers, a.k.a. “outsiders.”
The Reason for this Call
The apostle Paul says in Romans 12:1-2 (CSB), “Therefore, brothers and sisters, in view of the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship. Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” To fully grasp the depth of this message, one should first read Romans 1-11. Romans 1-11 reveals the magnitude of God’s love for us in the Gospel, compelling us to heed the message in Romans 12:1-2.
Following this call, Paul shows specific ways Christians can embody this change, one of which is found in Romans 12:13 (CSB) – “Share with the saints in their needs; pursue hospitality.” While the call to share in the needs of fellow believers is significant and warrants its in-depth exploration, our focus will be on the second part – to pursue hospitality.
The Meaning of “Pursue Hospitality”
The term “pursue” might seem ordinary initially, but it carries profound implications in this context. While it can mean chasing after, it is usually used about the persecution of Christians, evoking images of Christians being stalked, harassed, and hounded for their beliefs. Paul uses this strong term to underscore the intensity and commitment Christians should invest in pursuing hospitality.
As used here, hospitality is a compound word that encapsulates the essence of loving a stranger, which might appear paradoxical. It calls for Christians to love others selflessly, irrespective of any anticipated reciprocity, despite potential risks, indicating trust in God and a willingness to extend love selflessly.
Putting it All Together
The title of this article, “Persecute Strangers with Love,” echoes the radical call on a Christian’s life to pursue the opportunity to love a stranger actively. Hospitality is often viewed as a unique gift bestowed upon a select few, a “spiritual gift.” However, according to Paul, the pursuit of hospitality is not limited to a certain group but is a general call to all Christians. Hence, when the opportunity arises, Christians should extend more than friendly pleasantries to outsiders; they are called to chase the opportunity to love with the same fervor as persecutors chased Christians in the Bible.
Implications for the Church
The general perception in many church gatherings is that Christians should be kind and friendly to visiting strangers. While this is a commendable trait, it appears to fall short of Paul’s message in Romans 12:13. There needs to be more than passive friendliness and kindness. True love requires active engagement and selfless efforts. Think about how you would seek to comfort, feed, and foster a meaningful connection with visitors, much like how you would treat a friend or family member who visited your home. The scriptural call is not about being nice but about expressing love. More so, actively seeking opportunities to do so with strangers.
The Appropriate Response
Despite the clarity of this call, the pursuit of hospitality can be challenging. Many of us, myself included, often struggle with it. Yet, the validity of this call isn’t dependent on our comfort or capability; it’s a scriptural directive.
To grow in this area, it’s necessary first fully to understand the Gospel. Paul used the Gospel as a catalyst, motivating the church in Rome to embody this pursuit of loving strangers. Perhaps, immersing ourselves more in the Gospel will enhance our understanding of God’s boundless love for us, sinners, who were once strangers to Him.
Prayer is another essential component. Inviting the Holy Spirit to search our hearts, reveal our weaknesses, and strengthen our resolve to improve is a crucial step.
Finally, hospitality is a skill; practicing can help us improve. Start small; engage in conversation with a service worker; talk with a neighbor you rarely speak to; show interest in a stranger at the grocery store.
Arguably the most important form of hospitality is sharing the Gospel that changed your life. This requires patience and empathy, building a rapport with someone that creates an opening to share with them, and learning to present the Gospel in a way they can comprehend.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as Christians, we’re called to display an extraordinary form of love that mirrors God’s love for us. This love goes beyond merely being friendly or kind to strangers; it means chasing the opportunity to show love and hospitality with the same intensity one might reserve for persecution. This pursuit of hospitality extends beyond the borders of comfort zones to transform ourselves and our communities in a way that truly reflects God’s, transformative love.
The Church is tasked with the mission of not just being receptive to strangers but actively seeking ways to display this hospitality. As individuals, we can all strive to manifest this hospitality in small, meaningful ways every day. Let’s begin to ‘persecute’ strangers with the love of Christ, bringing the transformative message of the Gospel to life.