The concept of love for the foreigner is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's inclusive nature and His call for His people to extend compassion and justice beyond their immediate community. This theme is evident throughout both the Old and New Testaments, where God's people are repeatedly instructed to treat foreigners with kindness and equity.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, the Israelites are frequently reminded of their own history as foreigners in Egypt. This historical context serves as a foundation for their ethical treatment of foreigners within their midst. Leviticus 19:33-34 states, "When a foreigner resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. 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 command underscores the principle of empathy and the call to remember their own experiences of alienation and deliverance.

The Mosaic Law further emphasizes protection and provision for foreigners. Deuteronomy 10:18-19 declares, "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." Here, God's love for the foreigner is presented as a model for Israel's conduct, highlighting divine justice and care.

Prophetic Voices

The prophets also echo this call to love and justice. In Zechariah 7:9-10 , the Lord commands, "Administer true justice. Show loving devotion and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor." The prophetic literature often critiques Israel for failing to uphold these standards, linking social justice with true worship and covenant faithfulness.

New Testament Expansion

The New Testament expands the concept of love for the foreigner, aligning it with the broader Christian ethic of love and inclusion. Jesus' ministry exemplifies this through His interactions with Samaritans, Romans, and other non-Jews, breaking cultural and ethnic barriers. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus redefines the notion of "neighbor" to include those outside one's ethnic or religious group, emphasizing mercy and compassion.

The apostle Paul further articulates this inclusive vision in his letters. In Ephesians 2:19 , he writes, "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household." This passage highlights the unity and equality of all believers, regardless of their background, within the body of Christ.

Theological Implications

The biblical mandate to love the foreigner is rooted in the character of God, who is described as just, compassionate, and impartial. This divine attribute calls believers to reflect God's love in their interactions with others, transcending cultural, ethnic, and national boundaries. The consistent biblical theme of love for the foreigner challenges believers to practice hospitality, justice, and mercy, recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual as created in the image of God.

Practical Application

In practical terms, love for the foreigner involves active engagement in welcoming and supporting immigrants, refugees, and those who are marginalized. It calls for advocacy on behalf of the vulnerable and the pursuit of policies that reflect biblical justice and compassion. The church is called to be a community that embodies God's love, offering a tangible expression of His kingdom on earth through acts of kindness, hospitality, and inclusion.