ROMANS 16:23

“Gaius, host to me and to the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the city treasurer, greets you, and Quartus, the brother.”

Have you ever known a truly, gracious host? I’ve known a few. They make sure you are taken care of with everything you need at their home. They provide you with a room, towels, food and maybe even some snacks. Whenever my wife and I have hosted guests in our home, we have tried to do the same. Some people are just gifted hosts or hostesses.

I am guessing Gaius was such a person. Most scholars agree that he was more than likely a wealthy member of the church there in Corinth. He even hosted the church in his home. This wasn’t the only time Paul referenced Gaius. In 1 Corinthians 1:14 we find he was one of two people Paul himself baptized in Corinth. “I am thankful that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius,…” The Topical Lexicon says, “The twin notes of baptism and hospitality suggest spiritual responsiveness followed by tangible kingdom investment—an enduring pattern for Christian discipleship.”

APPLICATION

Gaius was obviously loved by many others besides Paul. Some scholars attribute this Gaius as the one John writes to in 3 John.
“The elder to the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth.” We don’t know for sure if this is the same Gaius or another of the same name, but they both have similar character traits. They were both hospitable, faithful and loving. We’ll find out one day who these men were and if they were the same person. For our teaching today, let’s assume they were.

Did you know that John Bunyan used the name Gaius as his innkeeper in The Pilgrim’s Progress? The name Gaius means “happy” or “one who rejoices.” What a great name, right? So, let me ask you if you are being hospitable toward others. Do you seek to meet the needs of others when you can? I know we can’t always do that, but we have so many examples of that in Scripture. It seems that the Lord wants us to show a little hospitality when we can.

You may not be wealthy in material goods, but we all have things we can share with others. When I have traveled overseas, I have always been well taken care of by people who have little to give. They always make sure my needs are met. They feed me well (even though I may not prefer the food they put before me, lol) and make sure I am safe wherever I stay. That’s how the body of Christ works. Will you ask the Lord how you can show this great love for others today?

Thank You, Lord, for those You have gifted with that great gift of hospitality toward others. Help me exercise that gift more myself.

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