Brotherly love and hospitality

In our Bibles the word “brotherly” comes from the word “philadelphia” which is the word that is used as a feeling of affection and trust that is proper among brothers of the same blood. We already know what the word “fraternal” means, then, starting from this definition, let’s go to the Bible:

1 Let brotherly love continue.

2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.

3 Remember the prisoners as if chained with them—those who are mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also.

Hebrews 13:1-3

With the first thing that the author of the Hebrews begins with is the small phrase: “Let fraternal love continue”. It is a direct order from the author of this book, telling us that we must let brotherly love continue. That bond that exists between blood brothers, must also be latent with people who do not have our blood, we must love with that same love, feel that affection for others, that love so dear to give our lives for others. Remember that there was not and will not be a greater love than that of our Savior, who offered His life as a living holocaust for our sins.

In the second verse he talks about hospitality. What is hospitality? Friendliness and attention with which a person receives and welcomes visitors or foreigners in their home or on their land. The Bible tells us about many people who hospitably received certain people, also tells us about the parable of the Good Samaritan, and that the Scriptures speak to us from beginning to end about hospitality. Recall that some men of the old testament received or hosted angels, as is the case of Lot.

It also tells us to remember the prisoners, but not only to take them into our thoughts, but to remember them as if we were prisoners together with them. Let us remember that this was a time when many brothers were imprisoned for the sake of the gospel, and the author of the Hebrews tells them to remember these people and that their love be so fraternal that they behave as if they too were prisoners.

Dear brothers, let us love one another in the love of Christ.

When the author encourages believers to continue in brotherly love, he is not presenting a new teaching, but reaffirming a principle that must remain constant in the Christian life. Love among brethren is not optional; it is a mark of true discipleship. Jesus Himself said that the world would recognize His disciples by their love for one another. This love is not based on interests, convenience, or personal preferences, but on the love with which Christ loved us first. It is a love that forgives, that bears burdens, that embraces the weak, and that seeks the good of others, even when it requires sacrifice.

Brotherly love grows when we understand that we are part of the same body. Just as the human body suffers when one of its members is wounded, the Christian community is called to feel the pain, struggles, and needs of others. This sense of unity produces compassion and pushes us to act in practical ways. It is not enough to say that we love; true love is shown in actions that reflect the character of Christ.

Hospitality, mentioned in the second verse, is another expression of this genuine love. In the early church, hospitality played a crucial role because many believers traveled preaching the gospel, and others were displaced due to persecution. Opening one’s home was an act of faith and generosity that extended the work of God. Today hospitality continues to be a testimony of the grace of God working in us. Receiving others with kindness, listening to them, comforting them, and sharing what God has given us is a powerful way to demonstrate the gospel in daily life.

The author also reminds believers not to forget those who suffer imprisonment. This call is deeper than simple remembrance; it is an invitation to empathy, to imagine ourselves in their place and respond with compassion. In the first century, many Christians were imprisoned unjustly, deprived of basic needs, and subjected to abuse. Remembering them meant praying for them, supporting their families, visiting when possible, and providing encouragement so that they would not lose heart. Today, although circumstances vary, many brothers and sisters around the world suffer for their faith. The text continues to challenge us to pray for them and to support them in the ways that are within our reach.

In summary, Hebrews 13:1-3 teaches us that Christian love is active, sacrificial, and practical. It calls us to embrace brotherly affection, practice hospitality, and stand in solidarity with those who suffer. Let us ask God to help us live this love every day, so that our testimony glorifies Him and others may experience the grace that He has poured over our lives.