What does the Bible say about illegal immigration?

I. Context and Definitions

When considering the topic often labeled today as “illegal immigration,” it is helpful to examine the biblical terms describing foreigners, strangers, and sojourners. In Scripture, words such as “alien,” “stranger,” “foreigner,” and “sojourner” often appear. These refer to individuals living outside their homeland or apart from their native kin. Examples include Abraham, who journeyed in foreign lands (Genesis 12:1–9), and the Israelites themselves, who spent centuries residing in Egypt before the Exodus (Exodus 12:40–41).

In the ancient Near East, treaties and obligations regarding foreigners were diverse. Archaeological findings, such as those from ancient city-states in Mesopotamia, reveal that many societies offered legal protections to resident foreigners but also expected them to respect local laws. The Bible consistently underscores God’s heart for those dwelling away from their home countries, while also upholding the importance of legal order.

II. God’s Concern for Foreigners

Scripture speaks clearly about showing kindness to the stranger. A well-known command is found in Leviticus 19:33–34:

“33 When a foreigner resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. 34 You must treat the foreigner living among you as native-born and love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God.”

This passage grounds compassion for sojourners in Israel’s own experience of being oppressed in Egypt. Compassion springs from humility: remembering that one’s ancestors or even oneself could have lived as a foreigner under unfamiliar laws.

Deuteronomy 10:18–19 reiterates this instruction by reminding readers that the Lord “executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and He loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing.” The response should be to “love the foreigner, for you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt.” This focus on love, empathy, and protection shows that the biblical narrative prizes the well-being of those who are vulnerable.

III. The Principle of Obeying Governing Authorities

Alongside compassion and hospitality, Scripture also teaches obedience to lawful authority. The New Testament addresses this forcefully in Romans 13:1–2:

“Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.”

Believers are called to respect and follow legitimate governmental laws. This principle was also recognized in the Old Testament, where civil and judicial codes guided areas like property laws, immigration, and social responsibilities (e.g., Deuteronomy 16:18–20). These legal structures were not arbitrary but designed to maintain order and justice in the community.

IV. Balancing Compassion with Respect for Law

The tension many encounter lies between these twin calls: to care for foreigners and to uphold the rule of law. Scripture does not directly address the modern concept of crossing national borders without legal permission, as its historical context was different. Yet, the principles remain:

1. Compassion and Hospitality: Believers are to show hospitality, provision, and kindness toward all in need, including foreigners (Leviticus 19:33–34).

2. Respect for Authority: Christians are encouraged to follow laws that do not violate God’s commands (Romans 13:1–2). This includes respecting national boundaries and legal processes, as they are established to maintain peace and order.

Deuteronomy 27:19 declares a curse on those who “withhold justice from the foreigner,” highlighting a strong scriptural conviction against neglect or mistreatment. At the same time, upholding a just legal framework can aid in protecting both citizens and non-citizens from exploitation. The biblical witness points to a society that neither oppresses outsiders nor disrespects legitimate statutes.

V. Provide for Needs While Upholding Order

Practically, these principles can inform believers and congregations on how to respond to real-life scenarios:

• Providing Basic Needs: In times of crisis—natural disasters, war, famine—Scripture shows God’s people offering physical help regardless of legal status (James 2:15–16). Compassion does not hinge on official paperwork but on the inherent dignity of every person.

• Encouraging Lawful Avenues: Individuals who wish to stay can be guided toward lawful channels for residency or citizenship if at all possible. Showing respect for a nation’s processes is part of honoring established authorities.

• Advocating Fair Laws: When legal systems become unjust or are burdened by corruption, Scripture allows believers to seek reforms. Old Testament prophets (e.g., Amos, Micah) called out unjust practices and advocated justice. Christians can participate in improving immigration laws so that they reflect both fairness and compassion.

• Providing Fellowship and Spiritual Support: Churches can offer counseling, spiritual guidance, language assistance, and discipleship opportunities—recognizing everyone’s ultimate need for salvation through Christ, regardless of national origin.

VI. Caution Against Exploitation and Criminality

Biblical commands surrounding foreigners also warn against exploitation. Exodus 22:21 commands, “You must not exploit or oppress a foreign resident….” The balanced biblical view is that foreigners should be treated equitably and that they themselves should not engage in wrongdoing or abuse the laws of the land.

In ancient Israel, provisions existed to integrate foreigners respectfully, but sojourners also bore responsibilities. Ruth’s story (Ruth 1–4) shows a Moabite woman respectfully embracing Israel’s customs and faith and eventually finding acceptance and blessing. While her narrative differs from the strict legal sense of immigration, it reflects the principle that foreigners could be welcomed if they integrated peacefully and honored the community’s structure.

VII. Summary of Biblical Themes

1. A Heart for the Stranger: Essential to biblical teaching is the love, mercy, and fairness extended toward those of foreign origin, as exemplified by God’s own compassion.

2. Recognition of Lawful Authority: The Bible upholds obedience to laws that do not directly conflict with God’s Word, viewing them as part of maintaining just order.

3. Pursuit of Justice: Alongside hospitality,God’s people are called to seek equity for all within a given legal structure, working to ensure laws do not oppress the vulnerable.

4. Personal Responsibility: Both the host nation and those seeking refuge carry responsibility—hosts to extend help and sojourners to act with integrity and abide by fair regulations.

VIII. Concluding Encouragement

The biblical witness calls for a delicate balance: actively caring for foreigners in their need, remembering that “the earth is the LORD’s and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1), yet also respecting and following the laws established for the well-being of society. Individuals, families, and congregations can extend practical compassion—providing food, shelter, prayer, and genuine friendship—while encouraging honorable, lawful participation in civic life.

These timeless moral principles guide believers to treat others, including those who are in a country without legal status, with dignity, fairness, and love. At the same time, observing and upholding rightful governance is seen as an act of respect toward God’s ordained social structures. In doing all these things, one reflects the character of a holy, just, and loving God whose ultimate desire is that people from all nations come to know Him (Revelation 7:9–10).