The concept of showing consideration for outsiders is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's inclusive love and the call for His people to extend grace and kindness to those beyond their immediate community. This theme is woven throughout both the Old and New Testaments, emphasizing the importance of hospitality, compassion, and justice.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, the Israelites were frequently reminded of their own history as outsiders in Egypt. This historical context served as a foundation for their treatment of foreigners and strangers. Leviticus 19:34 commands, "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 directive underscores the principle of empathy and equality, urging the Israelites to remember their own experiences and extend love to those who are not part of their ethnic or national group.

The Mosaic Law also provided specific instructions for the protection and fair treatment of outsiders. Deuteronomy 10:18-19 states, "He executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and He loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing. So you also must love the foreigner, since you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt." This passage highlights God's character as a defender of the marginalized and calls His people to mirror His justice and love.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues this theme, with Jesus Christ exemplifying and teaching consideration for outsiders. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus challenges societal norms by portraying a Samaritan—an outsider and traditional enemy of the Jews—as the hero who shows mercy and compassion. This parable illustrates that love and kindness should transcend ethnic and cultural boundaries.

Jesus' ministry often focused on those marginalized by society, including Gentiles, tax collectors, and sinners. His interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-26) further demonstrates His willingness to engage with and offer salvation to those considered outsiders by Jewish standards.

The apostle Paul also addresses the treatment of outsiders in his epistles. In Colossians 4:5-6 , he advises, "Act wisely toward outsiders, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Paul encourages believers to conduct themselves with wisdom and grace, ensuring that their interactions with non-believers reflect the love and truth of the Gospel.

The Church's Role

The early church grappled with the inclusion of Gentiles, as seen in the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15). The decision to welcome Gentile believers without requiring them to adhere to all Jewish customs marked a significant step in recognizing the universality of the Gospel. This inclusivity is further emphasized in Galatians 3:28 , where Paul declares, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

The call to show consideration for outsiders is not merely a social or ethical obligation but a reflection of God's redemptive plan for all humanity. By extending love, hospitality, and justice to those outside the faith community, believers participate in God's mission to reconcile the world to Himself.