In the biblical context, the terms "strangers" and "foreign nations" refer to individuals or groups who are not native to Israel or who do not belong to the covenant community of God's chosen people. The treatment and role of strangers and foreign nations are significant themes throughout the Scriptures, reflecting God's sovereignty, justice, and mercy.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word "ger" is often translated as "stranger" or "sojourner." These were individuals who lived among the Israelites but were not ethnically or culturally part of Israel. The Law given to Moses included specific instructions on how the Israelites were to treat these strangers. 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 reflects a broader biblical principle of compassion and justice, rooted in Israel's own experience as foreigners in Egypt. The Israelites were reminded of their past and were called to extend kindness and fairness to those who lived among them.

Role of Foreign Nations

Foreign nations in the Old Testament often played significant roles in the unfolding of God's plan. While some nations were adversaries of Israel, others were instruments of God's judgment or blessing. For instance, the Assyrians and Babylonians were used by God to discipline Israel for their disobedience (2 Kings 17:6, 2 Kings 24:10-16). Conversely, the Persian King Cyrus was seen as a deliverer who allowed the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the temple (Ezra 1:1-4).

Prophetic literature frequently addresses foreign nations, pronouncing judgments upon them for their idolatry and wickedness, while also envisioning a future where all nations would acknowledge the God of Israel. Isaiah 2:2 prophesies, "In the last days the mountain of the house of the LORD will be established as the chief of the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and all nations will stream to it."

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the Greek word "xenos" is used for "stranger" or "foreigner." The early Christian community, expanding beyond Jewish boundaries, grappled with the inclusion of Gentiles—non-Jews—into the faith. The apostle Paul emphasized that in Christ, ethnic and cultural barriers were broken down. Ephesians 2:19 declares, "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household."

The New Testament church was called to be a community where all believers, regardless of their background, were united in Christ. This inclusivity was a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through him (Genesis 12:3).

Hospitality and the Christian Ethic

Hospitality towards strangers is a recurring theme in the New Testament, reflecting the early church's commitment to love and service. Hebrews 13:2 exhorts believers, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it."

The treatment of strangers and foreigners is a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel, which calls believers to reflect God's love and grace to all people. The biblical narrative consistently points to a God who is concerned with justice, mercy, and the redemption of all nations, inviting them into His covenant community.