What other scriptures emphasize compassion towards strangers and refugees like Deuteronomy 23:16? Honoring God’s Heart for the Displaced Deuteronomy 23:16 sets the tone: “Let him live among you wherever he chooses, in the town of his pleasing. Do not oppress him.” Scripture consistently echoes this call. Below are key passages grouped to show the breadth of God’s concern. Foundational Commands in the Law “You must not mistreat or oppress a foreign resident, for you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt.” “When a foreigner resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. The foreigner living among you must be treated as your native-born. Love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt; I am the LORD your God.” “He defends the cause of the fatherless and widow, and He loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing. And you are to love the foreigner, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt.” Verses 17 and 19 frame the section: “Do not deprive the foreigner or fatherless of justice… When you reap your harvest… leave some for the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow.” Worship and Compassion Intertwined “The LORD watches over the foreigner; He sustains the fatherless and widow, but frustrates the ways of the wicked.” “Is not this the fast that I choose… to share your bread with the hungry and to bring the homeless poor into your house?” “If you truly administer justice between a man and his neighbor, if you do not oppress the foreigner… then I will let you live in this place.” Prophetic Warnings and Exhortations “Administer true justice, show loving devotion and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor.” “I will draw near for judgment… against those who oppress the hired worker, the widow, and the fatherless, and who turn aside the foreigner…” Jesus’ Teaching and Example “For I was hungry and you gave Me food, I was thirsty and you gave Me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed Me.” • Luke 10:33-37 (Parable of the Good Samaritan) A foreigner becomes the model neighbor, showing mercy that fulfills the law of love. New-Covenant Practice “God does not show favoritism, but welcomes from every nation the one who fears Him and does what is right.” “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some have entertained angels without knowing it.” “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking daily food, and one of you says, ‘Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,’ but does nothing… what good is it?” Threads to Notice • Same standard for everyone—native and foreigner alike. • Compassion is not optional; it confirms genuine faith. • Remembering personal deliverance (Israel from Egypt, believers from sin) fuels mercy toward others. God’s Word speaks with one voice: welcoming and caring for strangers and refugees is integral to living out His truth. |
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