In 1935, French archaeologist André Parrot excavated the ancient city of Mari, uncovering more than 15,000 clay tablets in the process. About a hundred of them dealt with a single issue: how to welcome a traveler, how much water, shade, and food to give him for the road. This interesting fact serves as an introduction to the sermon on Abraham’s hospitality, in which, at the height of the midday heat, he rushes out from the entrance to his tent to meet three strangers (Genesis 18). His hospitality isn’t some unattainable heroism, but rather simple acts into which he poured his whole heart, and the encounter ends with a promise for him personally. Listen, if you want to find out who you could make room for at your table and in your daily schedule today.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Read Genesis 18:1-10. What verbs describe how Abraham treats the three strangers, and what do they reveal about his heart?
- The speaker mentioned the Mari tablets, which describe hospitality as an ordinary duty in that era. So what was unusual about the way Abraham welcomed his guests?
- The sermon says hospitality begins with open eyes, not open doors. What most often keeps you from noticing the people right around you?
- Abraham gave up his time, comfort and best resources. How do you respond when someone disrupts your plans, and what does Abraham's example teach you here?
- The early Christians shared the gospel mostly in ordinary homes, around a shared table. What role could your home play today in the life of your church community and your neighbors?
- Abraham, the one who was giving, ended up receiving the promise of a son. Whom can you invite this week, even just for coffee, and how might God work in your life through that person?
