If you’re a Christian with questions about illegal immigration, the Bible has answers. While you might think of the issue as modern and outside of the reach of Scripture, there are several key passages that teach us how to respond to the question of, “What would Jesus do about illegal immigration?”
First, Romans 13:1-5 is an often-cited passage in conversations about illegal immigration. In these verses, Paul makes it clear that all Christians — and all people — should be “subject to the governing authorities.” He writes: “For there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Then, Paul makes it clear that anyone who “rebels against the authority” placed on earth by God “is rebelling against what God has instituted.”
Frighteningly, Paul states that anyone who rebels against God in this way will “bring judgment on themselves.” This passage appears to make it clear that God expects us to respect the laws of the land and follow them, and that those who attempt to enter any country illegally are sinning. Paul goes on to say, “For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong.”
Next, Paul gives us the solution to this problem, asking: “Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority?” He answers his own question simply, saying: “Then do what is right, and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good.” He continues with a warning: “But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason.”
Then, Paul says that those in power are “God’s servants,” calling them “agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.” He concludes, “Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.”
Another key passage to know on this subject is 1 Peter 2:13-17. Here, Peter follows a similar thread to Paul’s in Romans 13, writing, “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.”
Continuing, Peter says that it is God’s will that “by doing good,” Christians will “Silence the ignorant talk of foolish people.” He adds a warning: “Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves.” Finally, Peter admonishes Christians to do four simple things: “Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.”
Based on these passages, we can clearly see that God desires for all people to follow the law and honor their leaders. While Jesus also calls us to care for the “poor in spirit” (Matthew 5:3), this command does not contradict the verses we discussed above. As Christians, we are responsible to provide everyone we encounter with care and love, but that does not imply that governments must welcome in those who seek to subvert the law of the land.
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