Biblical Reflection on Immigration and Our Response

I’ve been listening a lot to the debate over immigration. Whether we’re talking about the laws of the United States, border enforcement, supporting other countries to make immigration less attractive, what to do with people (adults and children) who are already in the United States, the effects on the economy, politics, safety/security or any other aspect of this issue, those of us who bear the name “Christian” approach all of these through the lens of the Bible and our faith in Jesus – this is where we start.

I realize that just opening this discussion up could be contentious. That is not my intent. I want us to explore together. There are likely verses that I haven’t looked at with an eye to immigration, but you may have.

In response to my post, I invite people to share Bible verses related to immigration. Simply list Bible verses and a brief sentence or two explaining how those verses apply to immigration and our response. Regardless of your personal perspectives, look into the Bible to find what it says whether it supports your view or not. Verses posted will not be construed by me as reflective of your personal views. In fact, I encourage you to find verses that challenge your personal views.

The purpose is for us to explore together as people of peace, and, hopefully, counteract the current public discourse marred by negativity, name-calling, blaming, and discord. We can have challenging yet peaceful public discourse … I just know it!

I invite respectful, civilized, and non-politicized comments. Again, I want to explore together what the Bible has to say about immigration. Those who want to bring in threats, arrogance and blame people or political parties, please post elsewhere as that kind of post prevents good conversation.

I will gather the Scriptures and post them in a list for those who would like to use them elsewhere. Unless you say otherwise, I may use your comments without your name associated with the comments.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7)