Immigration is a pressing issue that impacts millions, but Jesus’ teachings offer timeless wisdom on how we should respond. From His command to “love your neighbor as yourself” to His parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus consistently urged His followers to show compassion to everyone—especially the marginalized and the stranger. His words challenge us to look beyond legal status or nationality and see the inherent dignity of every person. When we welcome the stranger, care for the hurting, and offer kindness without conditions, we’re not just being good citizens—we’re reflecting Christ.
Jesus didn’t just teach about compassion—He lived it. As a refugee child in Egypt and a friend to outcasts, He personally understood the struggles of the displaced. His life and the broader biblical narrative—from Abraham to Ruth—reveal that migration has always been part of God’s plan. The message is clear: we’re called not only to empathy but to action—through practical help, advocacy, and prayer. In a world often divided by fear and politics, Jesus invites us to build bridges rooted in love and justice.
Keep reading to explore how Jesus’ teachings apply today and discover practical steps you can take to live out His message of radical welcome and compassion.
Immigration is a hot topic in today’s world, affecting millions globally. But what does Jesus say about it? Let’s dive into the teachings of Jesus and explore how his words and actions can guide us in our views and treatment of immigrants.
Love Your Neighbor
One of the most fundamental teachings of Jesus is to love your neighbor as yourself. This principle is found in Mark 12:31, where Jesus says, “The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” This commandment doesn’t come with conditions based on nationality, race, or legal status. Jesus emphasizes love and compassion for all, regardless of their background.
The Good Samaritan
In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus tells the story of a man who is attacked by robbers and left for dead. A priest and a Levite pass by without helping, but a Samaritan, a foreigner and social outcast, stops to help the injured man. The Samaritan not only provides first aid but also ensures the man’s ongoing care by paying for his stay at an inn. Jesus concludes the parable by instructing, “Go and do likewise.” This story underscores the importance of showing mercy and kindness to all, regardless of their origin or status.
Welcoming the Stranger
In Matthew 25:35, Jesus says, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” Jesus identifies with the marginalized and the stranger, indicating that welcoming immigrants is a direct way to serve and honor him. When you welcome and help those in need, you’re embodying the love and compassion that Jesus preached.
The Golden Rule
Another guiding principle from Jesus is the Golden Rule found in Matthew 7:12: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” This rule is straightforward and universally applicable. If you were in a foreign land, wouldn’t you want to be treated with kindness and respect? Jesus encourages us to extend the same courtesy and care to others, including immigrants.
Jesus as an Immigrant
It’s also worth noting that Jesus himself experienced life as a refugee. In Matthew 2:13-15, Mary and Joseph flee to Egypt with the infant Jesus to escape King Herod’s massacre of male infants. Jesus understands firsthand the vulnerability and challenges of being an immigrant. His experience underscores the importance of compassion and empathy for those who are displaced or seeking refuge.
Biblical Examples of Immigration
The Bible is filled with stories of immigration and the movement of people. For instance, Abraham was called by God to leave his homeland and go to a new land (Genesis 12:1). The Israelites, led by Moses, fled Egypt to escape slavery and sought the Promised Land (Exodus 12:31-42). Ruth, a Moabite woman, immigrated to Israel and became part of the lineage of Jesus (Ruth 1:16-17). These stories highlight the integral role of immigration in the biblical narrative and God’s plan.
How Should We Respond?
So, how should we respond to immigration today in light of Jesus’ teachings?
- Show Compassion: Be empathetic and kind to immigrants. Remember, Jesus taught us to love our neighbors and to treat others as we would want to be treated.
- Offer Practical Help: Just as the Good Samaritan provided practical aid, look for ways to help immigrants in your community. This could be through volunteering, donating to organizations that support immigrants, or simply offering a helping hand to those in need.
- Advocate for Justice: Speak up for fair and humane immigration policies. Jesus often spoke out against injustice and stood up for the marginalized. We should do the same.
- Build Relationships: Take the time to get to know immigrants in your community. Building relationships helps break down barriers and fosters mutual understanding and respect.
- Pray: Pray for immigrants and for guidance on how you can best support them. Prayer is a powerful tool that can bring comfort and direction.
Final Thoughts
Jesus’ teachings provide a clear guide on how to treat immigrants—with love, compassion, and respect. By following his example and commands, we can create a more welcoming and just society. Remember, in the face of complex issues like immigration, the simplest approach often aligns best with Jesus’ teachings: love your neighbor as yourself.
In summary, Jesus’ words and actions remind us that our response to immigration should be rooted in love and compassion. As we navigate these challenges, let’s strive to embody the values that Jesus upheld, creating a world where everyone, regardless of their origin, is treated with dignity and respect.
FAQs on What Jesus Said About Immigration
1. What is the main teaching of Jesus regarding immigration?
Jesus’ main teaching related to immigration is to love your neighbor as yourself. This principle calls for compassion, kindness, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their nationality or legal status.
2. How does the parable of the Good Samaritan relate to immigration?
The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) demonstrates that we should show mercy and kindness to everyone, including foreigners. The Samaritan, who was a foreigner, helped a man in need, illustrating that compassion should cross all boundaries.
3. What did Jesus mean by “I was a stranger and you welcomed me”?
In Matthew 25:35, Jesus says, “I was a stranger and you welcomed me,” highlighting the importance of welcoming and helping those who are marginalized, including immigrants. This act of kindness is seen as directly serving Jesus himself.
4. Why is the Golden Rule important in the context of immigration?
The Golden Rule, found in Matthew 7:12, states, “Do to others what you would have them do to you.” This means treating immigrants with the same respect and kindness you would want if you were in their position, fostering empathy and understanding.
5. Was Jesus ever an immigrant?
Yes, Jesus experienced life as a refugee when his family fled to Egypt to escape King Herod’s massacre (Matthew 2:13-15). This personal experience of displacement underscores the importance of compassion and empathy for those who are immigrants.
6. What are some biblical examples of immigration?
The Bible includes numerous stories of immigration, such as Abraham’s journey to a new land (Genesis 12:1), the Israelites fleeing Egypt (Exodus 12:31-42), and Ruth’s immigration to Israel (Ruth 1:16-17). These stories highlight the significance of immigration in the biblical narrative.
7. How should Christians respond to immigration today?
Christians should respond to immigration with compassion, practical help, advocacy for just policies, building relationships, and prayer. This approach aligns with Jesus’ teachings and his example of loving and serving others.
8. Why is it important to build relationships with immigrants?
Building relationships with immigrants helps break down barriers, fosters mutual understanding, and creates a sense of community. It allows us to better empathize with their experiences and challenges.
9. What role does prayer play in addressing immigration issues?
Prayer is a powerful tool for seeking guidance and support in addressing immigration issues. It helps us align our actions with Jesus’ teachings and provides comfort and direction for both immigrants and those helping them.
10. How can I practically help immigrants in my community?
You can help immigrants by volunteering, donating to organizations that support them, offering assistance with daily needs, and advocating for fair immigration policies. Small acts of kindness can make a significant difference in their lives.
By understanding and applying Jesus’ teachings on immigration, we can create a more compassionate and just society, reflecting the love and kindness that he exemplified.
