Reading: The Hospitality LifeStyle Early Christianity

The early church’s response to Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 25:40—“The King will answer them, ‘Most certainly I tell you, because you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me’”—was more than just acts of charity; it became a fundamental part of their identity. This verse shaped their actions, priorities, and even their community structures, as they believed that every act of kindness was a direct service to Christ.

This mindset was revolutionary in a world where the poor, sick, and marginalized were often overlooked. While the Roman Empire had systems of care, they were typically reserved for specific social classes. The Christian community, however, extended hospitality universally, breaking down ethnic, social, and economic barriers.

Ministry Hospitality in Times of Crisis

One of the most compelling examples of the early church’s ministry hospitality occurred during times of crisis, particularly in response to plagues. The Plague of Cyprian, which devastated the Roman Empire from around 249 to 262 CE, is a prime example. This plague, possibly smallpox or measles, killed thousands daily, causing panic and abandonment as many fled the cities, leaving the sick to die alone.

Christians responded differently, staying behind to care for the afflicted. Motivated by Jesus' call to serve "the least of these," they provided food, water, and comfort to the sick, even at the risk of contracting the plague themselves. Many Christians did die as a result, but they viewed this as a form of service to Christ. Dionysius of Alexandria, an early Christian bishop, noted that Christians "healed the sick, nursed the dying, and even gave their lives for the cause." Their actions were a powerful testimony to their faith, standing out in a society driven by fear.

A New Model of Community

Hospitality in the early church wasn't just a response to crisis; it was an everyday practice. The Christian community became known for caring for the poor, widows, orphans, and travelers. This can be seen in the development of diaconal ministry, where deacons distributed food and resources to those in need. Deacons like Phoebe, mentioned in Romans 16:1-2, embodied Christian hospitality by supporting missionaries and the poor with her resources.

In Acts 4:32-35, believers are described as sharing everything they had, ensuring that "there were no needy persons among them." This collective care was a direct application of the teachings in Matthew 25:40, as they believed that by meeting the needs of others, they were serving Christ.

Caring for Slaves in the Early Church

A remarkable example of the early church’s hospitality and care is the story of Saint Callistus I, who was born into slavery and later became a pope. Callistus worked as a slave and, after a financial mistake, was sent to work in the brutal mines of Sardinia. Christians, led by Pope Victor I, advocated for the release of Christian prisoners, including Callistus. Once freed, Callistus was reintegrated into the Christian community, where he was forgiven and given the opportunity to serve. His rise to the position of pope exemplifies the early Christian belief in the inherent dignity of all people, including slaves.

The early church did not directly challenge the institution of slavery but promoted equality within the Christian community, as seen in 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." Christians often purchased the freedom of slaves, treated slaves with dignity, and even allowed them to rise to leadership positions within the church.

Christian Teachings on Slavery and Hospitality

1. Redemption of Slaves: Christians would pool resources to purchase the freedom of slaves, viewing it as a reflection of Christ’s redemption.
2. Hospitality in Christian Homes: Slaves in Christian households were treated with greater dignity and often considered part of the Christian family.
3. Church Support: The church provided food, shelter, and legal advocacy for slaves, ensuring their humane treatment.
4. Equality in Worship: In the church, slaves and free people worshiped together as equals, highlighting the radical inclusivity of the Christian faith.

Hospitality as Evangelism

The early church’s radical hospitality became one of its most powerful tools for evangelism. In a world where social status determined a person's worth, Christians demonstrated love and care for those society had discarded. One of the most significant examples was the rescue and adoption of abandoned infants. In the Roman world, unwanted babies were often left to die of exposure. Christians, however, saw each life as sacred and would take in these infants, raising them as their own. This practice of saving abandoned children became a visible testimony to the transformative love of Christ.

By the 4th century, Christians had established orphanages, hospitals, and other charitable institutions. Church leaders like Basil of Caesarea founded hospitals to care for the poor and sick, further demonstrating Christian commitment to hospitality. These institutions became a beacon of compassion in a harsh world, drawing many to the faith.

Legacy of Hospitality in Christian Tradition

The early church’s hospitality left a lasting legacy. Over the centuries, Christians continued to found monasteries, hospitals, and orphanages, all rooted in the belief that serving others was a way of serving Christ. Matthew 25:40 remained central to Christian identity, guiding how believers interacted with the world.

In conclusion, the early church's commitment to hospitality, inspired by Jesus' command in Matthew 25:40, transformed their communities and society. Through their acts of care, they not only changed individual lives but also showcased the love of Christ to a watching world. Their legacy continues to inspire Christian ministry today, reminding us that serving "the least of these" is a vital part of following Jesus.