What Does the Bible Say About Immigrants?

LA Violence in Response to Immigration Raids

We are all alarmed by the rioting, looting, and destruction happening in Los Angeles and other cities across the country. This violence is tearing apart communities, hurting the innocent—and is just flat out wrong.

In the midst of this chaos, some of us Christians might be wondering, what does the Bible say about immigrants? It’s important for us to align our worldview with the Bible, and Scripture has a lot to say about the many issues we’re facing right now in culture. That includes immigration, border policies, and order.

What Does the Bible Say About Immigrants?

It’s true we find talk about welcoming a stranger in the Old Testament, but that’s only half of it. It doesn’t mean that our nation cannot have order in the process of doing so.

In fact, the expectation communicated in Scripture is that the stranger abides by the law of the land and assimilates.

There is a right way to come into our nation.

Are Borders Wrong?

The right and necessity of a nation to be secure is something biblically supported.

There is a place for walls in America and other nations. What did Nehemiah go back to Jerusalem for? To rebuild the city walls (see Nehemiah 2:17).

Act 17:26 says, “From one man he created all the nations throughout the whole earth. He decided beforehand when they should rise and fall, and he determined their boundaries” (NLT). God is in favor of borders. 

The Christian Response to LA Unrest

The violence taking place has to stop before lives are lost. I’m praying for a spiritual awakening in America, for hearts to turn to Jesus, and for our nation to find healing through God’s love. 

As followers of Christ, we’re called to be peacemakers, not agents of chaos. Our elected officials have a God-given duty to protect their citizens, to stand for justice, and to restore order. 

So let’s lift up our brave law enforcement, first responders, and military in prayer—they’re out there risking everything to keep us safe. Let’s stand together, shine His light, and seek peace.

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Learn more about Pastor Greg Laurie

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