The treatment of foreigners, often referred to as "sojourners" or "aliens" in biblical texts, is a significant theme throughout the Scriptures. The Bible provides numerous instructions and narratives that reveal God's heart for the foreigner and the expected conduct of His people towards them.

Old Testament

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 the ethical treatment of foreigners within Israelite society. 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."

The Mosaic Law includes specific provisions for the protection and inclusion of foreigners. For instance, Deuteronomy 10:18-19 emphasizes God's justice and love for the foreigner: "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."

Foreigners were also included in religious observances and community life. In Exodus 12:49 , it is decreed, "The same law shall apply to both the native and the foreigner who resides among you." This inclusion underscores the principle of equality before the law and the shared participation in the covenant community.

New Testament

The New Testament continues the theme of compassion and inclusion for foreigners, expanding it within the context of the early Christian church. Jesus' ministry often highlighted the breaking down of ethnic and social barriers. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus illustrates that love for one's neighbor transcends ethnic boundaries, challenging prevailing prejudices of the time.

The Apostle Paul further articulates the unity of believers, regardless of their ethnic background. 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 reflects the theological understanding that in Christ, all believers are part of one family, erasing divisions between Jew and Gentile.

Practical Implications

The biblical mandate for the treatment of foreigners calls for a posture of hospitality, justice, and love. The Scriptures consistently advocate for the protection of the vulnerable, including foreigners, widows, and orphans. This is seen as a reflection of God's character and His desire for His people to embody His justice and mercy.

The treatment of foreigners is not merely a social or political issue but a deeply spiritual one, rooted in the identity and mission of God's people. The biblical narrative encourages believers to remember their own spiritual journey from alienation to inclusion in God's family, motivating them to extend the same grace and welcome to others.