How can Exodus 22:21 influence our attitudes towards immigration and refugees? Setting the Scene Exodus 22:21: “You must not exploit or oppress a foreign resident, for you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt.” Why God Gave This Command • Israel’s memory of Egypt kept humility alive. • The command guarded vulnerable outsiders from abuse. • It reflected God’s own character: “He defends the cause of the fatherless and widow, and loves the foreigner” (Deuteronomy 10:18-19). Principles We Can Carry Forward • No exploitation. Immigration debates often center on economics; Scripture forbids using people merely for labor or political leverage. • No oppression. Policies or personal actions that intentionally burden lawful immigrants or genuine refugees clash with God’s heart. • Empathy born of memory. Israel’s past slavery fuels compassion; believers recall their own rescue from sin (Ephesians 2:12-13). Motivations Scripturally Reinforced • Christ welcomed the stranger (Matthew 25:35). • Believers entertain angels unawares (Hebrews 13:2). • The Spirit produces “kindness” and “goodness” (Galatians 5:22-23), qualities commanded in Exodus 22:21. Practical Attitudes to Cultivate • Speak respectfully of immigrants and refugees; refuse dehumanizing labels. • Support fair laws that protect borders yet honor human dignity (Romans 13:1-4 balanced with Micah 6:8). • Offer tangible help—employment guidance, language assistance, friendship, church fellowship. • Discern genuine need, but default to mercy (James 2:13). Balancing Compassion and Order • Scripture never endorses chaos; governments “bear the sword” to restrain evil (Romans 13:4). • Compassion and enforcement are not opposites. A society can secure its borders while treating every person as an image-bearer of God (Genesis 1:27). • Personal obedience begins where we are—how we hire, vote, speak, give, and serve. Living Exodus 22:21 Today • Remember: once lost, now found (1 Peter 2:10). • Reject exploitation: fair wages, honest contracts, no predatory practices. • Reflect God’s welcome: open homes, warm churches, generous hearts. • Rest in God’s sovereignty: nations rise and fall, but His command stands—“Do not exploit or oppress a foreign resident.” |
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