How Christians Should View the Syrian Immigration Problem?
Immigration continues to be a polarizing issue in America, first because of the Paris, and now the San Bernardino attacks. The lines are being drawn around the world. In the last few weeks, many governors have said they want to examine the immigration policies and procedures in place, before any more Syrian refugees are let in. Others have said outright, “No Syrian refugees!” So what are Christians to think?
At this time of year, it’s helpful to remember that Jesus, Mary and Joseph were themselves refugees who fled to Egypt to escape violence. But, before I give you what God says in Scriptures about aliens, and you write me off as a bleeding heart liberal, I’d like to frame my position, as follows;
I believe taking 60-90 days to make sure each state’s governor is confident that the U.S. government has a reasonably thorough process in place to sort out potential terrorists, makes a great deal of sense. Let’s be wise about potentially sloppy procedures, like the current visa waiver program.
God, in scripture never instructed his people us to take in enemy soldiers or criminals, only the hopeless, helpless and powerless.
However, no screening system is 100% effective and we, as Christians should not turn our back on the 99.9% who are likely true refugees, because we may miss a few who want to harm us.
It’s critical that we give priority to true refugees, fleeing war and religious persecution, as opposed to aliens who simply want a better life. Mercy should always trump the always present desire for a better opportunity.
We as a nation may suffer for being humane and kind, but Jesus never promised we wouldn’t. He expects his people to be willing to suffer for “the least of these.”
The U.S. is not Old Testament Israel. God’s instructions to Israel, about aliens are not binding on New Testament Christians. However, God’s heart for the poor and aliens is a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament and no serious Christian doubts that he no longer cares about these people.
This is not a “European problem.” There are literally millions of refugees living in tents, and others walking hundreds of miles to be safe. Christians everywhere should be concerned about them and be their advocates. They are our “neighbor,” regardless of their religion.
The issue of immigration reform is nuanced, and policies are often legislatively complex. But the wisdom of the Bible is both simple and timeless. Here are 12 passages that discuss how those who love God should treat immigrants, refugees and those in need of help. Please resist reading them like a legal document, looking for loopholes. Read them to hear the heart of God.
At this time of year, it’s helpful to remember that Jesus, Mary and Joseph were themselves refugees who fled to Egypt to escape violence. But, before I give you what God says in Scriptures about aliens, and you write me off as a bleeding heart liberal, I’d like to frame my position, as follows;
I believe taking 60-90 days to make sure each state’s governor is confident that the U.S. government has a reasonably thorough process in place to sort out potential terrorists, makes a great deal of sense. Let’s be wise about potentially sloppy procedures, like the current visa waiver program.
God, in scripture never instructed his people us to take in enemy soldiers or criminals, only the hopeless, helpless and powerless.
However, no screening system is 100% effective and we, as Christians should not turn our back on the 99.9% who are likely true refugees, because we may miss a few who want to harm us.
It’s critical that we give priority to true refugees, fleeing war and religious persecution, as opposed to aliens who simply want a better life. Mercy should always trump the always present desire for a better opportunity.
We as a nation may suffer for being humane and kind, but Jesus never promised we wouldn’t. He expects his people to be willing to suffer for “the least of these.”
The U.S. is not Old Testament Israel. God’s instructions to Israel, about aliens are not binding on New Testament Christians. However, God’s heart for the poor and aliens is a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament and no serious Christian doubts that he no longer cares about these people.
This is not a “European problem.” There are literally millions of refugees living in tents, and others walking hundreds of miles to be safe. Christians everywhere should be concerned about them and be their advocates. They are our “neighbor,” regardless of their religion.
The issue of immigration reform is nuanced, and policies are often legislatively complex. But the wisdom of the Bible is both simple and timeless. Here are 12 passages that discuss how those who love God should treat immigrants, refugees and those in need of help. Please resist reading them like a legal document, looking for loopholes. Read them to hear the heart of God.
No comments have been added yet.
