Bible Verses About Immigration and Refugees
The experience of being new in a land, of being an outsider, or of seeking refuge can bring feelings of vulnerability, uncertainty, and longing for belonging. It can involve leaving behind everything familiar, facing unfamiliar customs, and navigating new challenges. Scripture speaks extensively and specifically to the presence of immigrants and refugees, often referred to as sojourners or strangers, within society. Here is what scripture actually says about it.
“Therefore you shall love the foreigner, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt.”
"“You shall not wrong a foreigner, neither oppress him, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt."
Why this verse matters
This verse directly links Israel's past experience as foreigners in Egypt to their present responsibility toward others. Because they knew what it was like to be an outsider and oppressed, they were commanded not to inflict the same on others.
"“‘When a foreigner lives with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. The foreigner who lives with you shall be to you as the native-born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am Yahweh your God."
Why this verse matters
This command goes beyond mere tolerance, instructing the Israelites to treat foreigners as equals, even to love them as they would themselves. The core reason is once again rooted in their own history as foreigners, reminding them of God's deliverance and their shared humanity.
"He executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and loves the foreigner, in giving him food and clothing. Therefore you shall love the foreigner, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt."
Why this verse matters
Here, God's character is presented as one who actively cares for the most vulnerable, including foreigners. This is not just a human law, but a reflection of God's own nature, and therefore His people are called to imitate this love and provision.
"When you reap your harvest in your field, and have forgotten a sheaf in the field, you shall not go again to get it. It shall be for the foreigner, for the fatherless, and for the widow, that Yahweh your God may bless you in all the work of your hands. When you beat your olive tree, you shall not go over the boughs again. It shall be for the foreigner, for the fatherless, and for the widow. When you gather the grapes of your vineyard, you shall not glean it afterward. It shall be for the foreigner, for the fatherless, and for the widow."
Why this verse matters
These verses provide specific, practical instructions for ensuring that foreigners, along with the fatherless and widows, have access to food. It's a system of provision built into the agricultural practices, demonstrating a tangible way to care for those who might not have their own land or means of support.
"for I was hungry, and you gave me food; I was thirsty, and you gave me drink; I was a stranger, and you took me in;"
Why this verse matters
In this New Testament passage, Jesus identifies with the 'stranger' and those in need. He teaches that acts of compassion and hospitality shown to the least of these are in fact shown to Him, highlighting the spiritual significance of welcoming those who are new or in need of shelter.
"Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for in doing so some have entertained angels unknowingly."
Why this verse matters
This verse encourages believers to extend hospitality to strangers, reminding them of the potential for divine encounter. It elevates the act of welcoming an unfamiliar person to a spiritual practice, suggesting blessings may come in unexpected forms.
"Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do for the brothers and for strangers, who testified of your love before the assembly. You will do well to send them forward on their journey in a way worthy of God, because for the sake of the Name they went out, taking nothing from the Gentiles. We therefore ought to receive such, that we may be fellow workers for the truth."
Why this verse matters
This passage commends supporting those who travel for the sake of their faith. While not strictly about immigration, it speaks to the Christian responsibility to provide for and partner with those who are traveling or new, especially when their journey is connected to their service to God.
What this means for your situation today
Understanding these scriptures means recognizing that God's concern for the immigrant and refugee is not a secondary issue but is woven into the fabric of His law and His character. For us today, this calls for a posture of compassion and practical care. It means looking for ways to extend welcome, to advocate for fair treatment, and to offer tangible help to those who are new to our communities or seeking refuge. This could be as simple as offering a friendly greeting, helping with practical needs, or learning about the experiences of those who have immigrated. It is about seeing their humanity and responding with the love that reflects God's heart, remembering that we are all, in some sense, sojourners.
How can I, in my own life and community, extend love and practical care to those who are new or seeking refuge?
Frequently asked questions
- The Bible, particularly the Old Testament, contains many laws and commands regarding the fair and compassionate treatment of immigrants, often called 'sojourners.' These laws emphasize their protection, provision, and inclusion in society.
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