How should Christians treat strangers?

In an increasingly globalized and fast-paced world, encounters with strangers are a daily reality. Whether in neighborhoods, workplaces, places of worship, or online communities, we are constantly crossing paths with people we do not know. The Bible, however, is anything but silent on the subject of how Christians should treat strangers. Its teachings, rooted in both Old and New Testaments, challenge believers to go beyond mere politeness and embrace radical hospitality.

The Biblical Foundation for Welcoming Strangers

The call to care for strangers runs deep throughout the Scriptures. In the Old Testament, the Israelites are repeatedly reminded of their own history as foreigners in Egypt. Leviticus 19:33-34 states, “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” Here, God’s people are commanded not just to tolerate, but to love strangers with the same care they would show their own family.

This theme is echoed in Deuteronomy 10:18-19, where God is described as one who “loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.” The call to hospitality is not optional or peripheral—it is rooted in God’s character and in the collective memory of God’s people.

Jesus’ Example and Teaching

The ministry of Jesus further expands and deepens the biblical vision for how to treat strangers. Jesus consistently reached out to those on the margins—tax collectors, Samaritans, Gentiles, the sick, and the overlooked. In the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus redefines “neighbor” not as someone familiar or close, but as anyone in need, regardless of background or social standing.

Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 25:34-40 is especially striking. He tells His followers that welcoming strangers is equivalent to welcoming Him: “I was a stranger and you invited me in… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” To treat strangers with kindness, respect, and practical help is to honor Christ Himself.

The New Testament Church and Hospitality

The early Christian community took the command to welcome strangers seriously. Hospitality was a defining characteristic of the church. Romans 12:13 instructs believers to “share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Hebrews 13:2 adds, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” This reference hearkens back to Abraham’s encounter with mysterious visitors in Genesis 18, suggesting that acts of kindness to strangers can have profound, even divine, significance.

The Apostle Peter also writes, “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling” (1 Peter 4:9). For the early church, hospitality was not just an individual virtue but a communal practice that reflected the love, unity, and generosity of Christ.

Practicing Hospitality Today

Although our cultural context is different, the biblical call to welcome and care for strangers remains relevant and urgent. Practicing hospitality today means more than inviting friends over for dinner. It requires an openness of heart and home to those who are new, different, or in need.

This can involve simple acts—greeting newcomers at church, helping a neighbor who is new to the area, or supporting refugees and immigrants. It also means being willing to listen to people’s stories, respecting their dignity, and advocating for justice on behalf of those who may feel excluded or vulnerable.

In a world where fear and suspicion of the “other” can easily take root, Christian hospitality is countercultural. It is a tangible way to express God’s love and to bear witness to the inclusive nature of the gospel.

Overcoming Barriers

Many Christians may feel hesitant to engage with strangers due to fear, cultural differences, or uncertainty about what to say or do. The Bible acknowledges that welcoming strangers requires courage and sacrifice. However, it also assures us that God equips and blesses those who step out in faith.

Prayer, openness to the Holy Spirit’s prompting, and a willingness to learn from others can help overcome these barriers. Remembering our own experiences of being new or in need can also cultivate empathy and compassion.

The Blessings of Welcoming Strangers

Treating strangers with Christian love is not only a command but a source of blessing. Relationships with newcomers can enrich our lives, broaden our perspectives, and deepen our faith. In serving others, we often discover God’s presence in unexpected ways.

Furthermore, the practice of hospitality has the power to transform communities. It builds bridges, fosters understanding, and models the unity and diversity that God desires for His people.