An Ethic of Hospitality: The Pilgrim Motif in Hebrews and the Refugee Problem in Kenya

by Emily Jeptepkeny Choge; William Dyrness

Publisher:

Pickwick Publications

, 2020

Overview

In our increasingly xenophobic world, countries are turning away refugees and immigrants. Based on the situation in Kenya, this book offers a countercultural ethic of hospitality and welcome to the stranger, an ethic fraught with dangers and yet filled with great opportunities for transforming our world. Drawing on the scriptural pilgrim motif and specifically on the book of Hebrews, this study paints a picture of refugees not only as needy strangers to be herded into camps, but as brothers and sisters who bring with them treasures and talents that can enrich our understanding of our Christian identity and mission as pilgrims in the world. The hospitality practice seen in Hebrews offers hope and promise not only for refugees themselves but also for the pilgrim church. Like the ancient heroes of faith portrayed in Hebrews, we too live as pilgrims and aliens who await with hope the city whose architect and founder is God. Refugees in fact teach us how to live our pilgrim identity: they become teachers not only for the church in Kenya but also for the body of Christ worldwide.

Praise for An Ethic of Hospitality

“When people in Europe and North America consider the ‘refugee problem’ in 2020, they are likely to think about the recent influx of Africans into Europe or the caravans of refugees from Central America camped on America’s doorstep. What they are less likely to think about is the back story of these migrations and the devastation and displacement in developing countries that has given rise to these desperate journeys. This is the story that Emily Choge tells in this important study.”

—William Dyrness, from the foreword



“One would have expected that at the onset of the twenty-first century, virtues like care for the vulnerable would be commonplace. Unfortunately, more people are looking inwards, and nationalisms have been on the rise. Globally, more people are displaced today with refugees on every continent. Dr. Choge demonstrates how the church can lead the way in care for humanity out of a heart of charity and hospitality.”

—M. D. Kinoti, Professor of Leadership & Management, Regis University

Product Details

• Title: An Ethic of Hospitality: The Pilgrim Motif in Hebrews and the Refugee Problem in Kenya
• Authors: Emily Jeptepkeny Choge, William Dyrness
• Publisher: Pickwick Publications
• Print Publication Date: 2020
• Logos Release Date: 2020
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Ebook
• ISBNs: 9781532699368, 9781532699344, 1532699360, 1532699344
• Resource ID: LLS:9781532699368
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2022-09-29T14:58:36Z

About the Authors

Emily Jeptepkeny Choge is an associate professor in the Department of Philosophy, Religion, and Theology at Moi University in Eldoret, Kenya. Her writing has appeared in many academic journals. She also has contributed to The Global Dictionary of Theology (2008) and Africa Bible Commentary (2006).