How does Deuteronomy 24:18 guide our actions towards immigrants and strangers? Context of Deuteronomy 24:18 • The surrounding commands (vv. 17–22) deal with justice for the foreigner, orphan, and widow. • Verse 18 roots those commands in Israel’s memory of literal slavery and God’s historical redemption: “Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the LORD your God redeemed you; that is why I command you to do this.” (Deuteronomy 24:18) Key Truths from the Verse • Memory motivates mercy—what God did for us shapes what we do for others. • Redemption obligates righteousness—because the LORD paid the price to set His people free, they must live out His character. • The command is not optional or cultural; it rests on God’s unchanging redemptive act. How This Guides Our Attitude Toward Immigrants and Strangers • Humility: We remember our own need; Israel once lacked rights in Egypt, and believers were once “strangers to the covenants” (Ephesians 2:12). • Compassion: God’s saving work supplies the pattern—He stepped in when we were helpless, so we step in for the vulnerable. • Justice: The foreigner deserves fair treatment in courts, workplaces, and communities (compare v. 17). • Generosity: Leaving gleanings (vv. 19-22) illustrates intentional provision; we plan room in budgets, schedules, and church ministries for immigrants. Practical Ways to Obey Today • Advocate for fair pay and lawful treatment of immigrant workers. • Offer language tutoring, transportation, or child-care support to newly arrived families. • Invite international neighbors to meals and church gatherings, refusing partiality (James 2:1-4). • Employ business practices that mirror gleaning—scholarships, discounted services, or hiring initiatives aimed at newcomers. • Support missions and local ministries that proclaim the gospel while meeting tangible needs of refugees and migrants. Supporting Scriptures • Exodus 22:21 — “You must not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt.” • Leviticus 19:34 — “The foreigner residing with you must be to you as the native-born among you. You shall love him as yourself.” • Psalm 146:9 — “The LORD protects the foreigners; He sustains the fatherless and widow.” • Matthew 25:35 — “I was a stranger and you took Me in.” • Hebrews 13:2 — “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” |
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