Apostolic Fathers: Didache
Chapter 12 1 Receive everyone who comes to you in the Lord's name. You will know, when you have tested him, for you will have understanding on the right hand and on the left. 2 If a transient comes, help him as you are able. He should not remain with you more than two or three days, if necessary. 3 And if he wishes to dwell with you, being a craftsman, let him work and let him eat. 4 But if he doesn't have a trade, take care of him according to those of you who have understanding. No one may live with you as a Christian in idleness. 5 But if he is not willing to do this, he is trafficking upon Christ. Beware of such as these. Christian hospitality welcomes everyone who comes in the Lord's name (Psalm 118:26). This is not a blind acceptance of their teachings or their lifestyle. Everyone still needs to be tested (1 John 4:1). When they have successfully passed the test, or when they have received reproof and correction, then they should be accepted as part of the congregation. The Teaching illustrates a Christian guide for helping transients. By the very definition of the word, transients show up on the doorstep while they are passing from one place to another. They have not reached their destination, but they are in the midst of their journey. He should not stay among the congregation for very long unless the hospitality given to him urges him to want to dwell with the congregation. If he stays, he must contribute to the congregation with his talents. “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). The Teaching tells us that a socially irresponsible person “is trafficking upon Christ.” We should beware of anyone who seeks to take advantage of the Church's goodwill.