Boundaries & Hospitality
In this module, we explore how to practice supportive, Christ-centered hospitality while remaining secure in our own identity through boundaries. Scripture invites us to love generously and welcome others, yet it also calls us to wisdom, humility, awareness of limits, and stewardship of the self God has entrusted to us.
We’ll examine how boundaries are not barriers to love, but structures that make loving relationships possible. This module also introduces the concept of bonding—how attachment and relational patterns shape our capacity to offer care, set limits, and remain grounded in who God says we are as we connect with others.
Resources
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Biblical Basis for Boundaries. (2018). In Changes that Heal: Four Practical Steps to a Happier, Healthier You (pp. 112-145). Zondervan.
When We Fail to Develop Boundaries. (2018). In Changes that Heal: Four Practical Steps to a Happier, Healthier You (pp. 177-199). Zondervan.
What is Bonding? (2018). In Changes That Heal: Four Practical Steps to a Happier, Healthier You (pp. 66-99). Zondervan.
Learning to Bond. (2018). In Changes That Heal: Four Practical Steps to a Happier, Healthier You (pp. 101-105). Zondervan.
Dewane, C. J. (2006, Winter). The Use of Self: A Primer Revisited. Clinical Social Work Journal, 34(4), 543-558. 10.1007/s10615-005-0021-5
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Proverbs 4:23
Proverbs 23:9
Proverbs 25:28
Proverbs 26:4
Matthew 5
Matthew 7:6
Romans 12:9-21
2 Corinthians 9:6-15
Galatians 6:1-10
Ephesians 5:7
2 Thessalonians 3:14
Titus 3:10-11
Bottom Line
Biblical boundaries are not tools to control others; they are practices of faithful self-governance. Scripture calls us to guard our own hearts (Prov. 4:23), to exercise wisdom about what and how much we entrust to others (Prov. 23:9; Matt. 7:6), and to live with integrity rather than reactivity (Prov. 26:4).
Healthy boundaries name our God-given capacities and limitations so that love can flourish without resentment, generosity can be offered freely (2 Cor. 9:6–15), and sin is neither ignored nor enabled (Gal. 6:1–10; Titus 3:10–11). They protect us from being overwhelmed or unguarded (Prov. 25:28) and help us respond to harm with truth, wisdom, and grace (Rom. 12:9–21; Matt. 5).
In this way, boundaries are less about what we withhold and more about what we wisely entrust—creating space for relationships marked by sincerity, responsibility, and Christlike love (Eph. 5:7; 2 Thess. 3:14).
One Step Deeper
Reflect on your assumptions
Note the first response / reaction that comes to mind without rationalizing it. That’s how we nail down our automatic assumptions! There is no judgment here — we are seeking humility, honesty, integrity within belonging.
What do you think of when you think of “healing”?
What does “healing” feel like to you (either being part of the healing of others or experiencing healing yourself)? Why do you think it feels that way?
If you were to define healing, how would you define it?
Integration questions
How do your own assumptions and understanding before this module interact with the Scriptures and the gospel?
How do the resources provided in this section interact with the Scriptures and the gospel?
Briefly, try to name one thing you would receive, one thing you’d reject, and one thing you’d redeem about the concept of healing.
Module Reflection Form
Please complete the module reflection form after you have completed the assigned readings for this module. A copy of your responses will be emailed to you.