The Bible, particularly in the King James Version (KJV), offers profound guidance on how individuals and societies should treat immigrants, often referred to as “strangers” or “sojourners.” Rooted in principles of love, justice, and compassion, God’s commands emphasize the moral and spiritual imperative of accepting and caring for those who enter foreign lands. This article explores key biblical passages that highlight this requirement, underscoring the timeless relevance of these teachings in addressing contemporary issues surrounding immigration.

1. God’s Call to Love the Stranger

Leviticus 19:33-34

“And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him. But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.”

This passage is one of the most explicit commands regarding the treatment of immigrants. God not only forbids mistreatment (“ye shall not vex him”) but also elevates the stranger to the same status as native-born citizens. The rationale provided—Israel’s history as strangers in Egypt—serves as a poignant reminder of empathy and solidarity.

Deuteronomy 10:18-19

“He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.”

God is described as the defender of the vulnerable, including immigrants. This passage reinforces the divine mandate to provide tangible support (food and clothing) to strangers and calls for a similar attitude from believers. The command is rooted in Israel’s collective memory of dependence and deliverance.

2. The Principle of Equality Before the Law

Numbers 15:15-16

“One ordinance shall be both for you of the congregation, and also for the stranger that sojourneth with you, an ordinance forever in your generations: as ye are, so shall the stranger be before the LORD. One law and one manner shall be for you, and for the stranger that sojourneth with you.”

This passage emphasizes equality under the law for both Israelites and immigrants. It reflects a God-ordained principle that the same standards of justice, worship, and conduct apply to everyone, regardless of origin. This inclusivity ensures that strangers are integrated into the community without discrimination.

Exodus 22:21

“Thou shalt neither vex a stranger, nor oppress him: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.”

Here, God explicitly forbids oppression of immigrants. The repetition of Israel’s shared history as strangers underscores the ethical responsibility to ensure that others are not subjected to the hardships they once endured.

3. The Example of Biblical Heroes

Abraham’s Hospitality (Genesis 18:1-8)

Abraham, a stranger himself in the land of Canaan, sets an example of welcoming strangers. When three visitors (later revealed to be angels) arrive, Abraham offers them rest, water, and food. His hospitality is later rewarded with the promise of a son.

This narrative illustrates how treating strangers with kindness and respect aligns with divine expectations and often brings blessings.

Ruth and Boaz

The Book of Ruth offers a powerful story of how immigrants can be integrated into a foreign land. Ruth, a Moabite widow, accompanies her Israelite mother-in-law Naomi to Bethlehem. Despite being a foreigner, Ruth is treated with kindness by Boaz, who ensures her protection and provides for her needs.

Ruth’s story demonstrates that inclusivity and compassion towards immigrants not only fulfill God’s law but also enrich the community.

4. Jesus’ Teachings on Caring for Strangers

Matthew 25:35-40

“For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in… Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”

Jesus identifies Himself with the vulnerable, including strangers, and emphasizes that acts of kindness towards them are acts of worship. This teaching elevates the care of immigrants to a divine standard, linking it directly to one’s relationship with God.

The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)

Although not explicitly about immigration, the parable of the Good Samaritan illustrates the principle of loving one’s neighbor, regardless of nationality or social status. The Samaritan’s actions demonstrate that compassion transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries, aligning with God’s broader call to love the stranger.

5. Warnings Against Neglect or Oppression

Malachi 3:5

“And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against… those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts.”

This verse warns against the consequences of mistreating immigrants. God’s judgment is invoked against those who exploit or deny justice to the vulnerable, including strangers.

Jeremiah 7:5-7

“For if ye thoroughly amend your ways and your doings; if ye thoroughly execute judgment between a man and his neighbor; if ye oppress not the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow… then will I cause you to dwell in this place, in the land that I gave to your fathers, forever and ever.”

God links the welfare of the nation to its treatment of the marginalized, including strangers. Justice and fairness are prerequisites for divine blessing and stability.

6. Theological Implications for Today

The Universal Nature of God’s Command

The consistent message throughout the Bible is that God’s love and justice are universal, extending to all people. His commands to accept and care for strangers emphasize the shared humanity and dignity of all individuals, regardless of nationality or origin.

Practical Applications

• Hospitality: Believers are called to welcome immigrants into their communities with kindness and generosity.
• Advocacy: Christians are encouraged to advocate for fair and just treatment of immigrants in legal and social systems.
• Integration: Churches and communities can serve as spaces for cultural exchange and support for immigrants adapting to new environments.

Conclusion

The King James Bible is unequivocal in its call for the acceptance and care of immigrants entering a foreign land. Through passages in Leviticus, Deuteronomy, Exodus, and the teachings of Jesus, God commands His followers to love and treat strangers as equals, recognizing their inherent dignity and worth. These teachings remain profoundly relevant, offering timeless guidance for fostering compassion, justice, and unity in a world often divided by borders and cultures.

  #BiblicalGuidance, #CompassionateLiving, #Deuteronomy10, #EqualityBeforeGod, #GodsCommand, #ImmigrantRights, #ImmigrationInTheBible, #JusticeAndMercy, #Leviticus19, #LoveTheStranger, #SpiritualMandate, #StrangersInTheLand, #TreatOthersWithKindness