Deuteronomy 10:19

So you also must love the foreigner, since you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt.

Study Bible

So you also must love the foreigner
The phrase "So you also must love the foreigner" is a direct command from God to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of extending love and compassion beyond their own community. The Hebrew word for "love" here is "ahav," which implies a deep, abiding affection and commitment. This is not a superficial or conditional love but one that mirrors God's own love for humanity. Historically, the Israelites were often surrounded by foreign nations, and this command served as a reminder of their own history as foreigners in Egypt. It is a call to empathy and understanding, rooted in their collective memory of oppression and liberation.

since you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt
The phrase "since you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt" serves as a powerful reminder of the Israelites' past. The Hebrew word for "foreigners" is "gerim," which refers to sojourners or temporary residents. This word choice highlights the transient and vulnerable status the Israelites once held. The historical context is crucial here; the Israelites' experience in Egypt was marked by hardship and oppression, which God delivered them from. This shared history of being foreigners is meant to cultivate a sense of solidarity and compassion towards others who find themselves in similar circumstances. It underscores a recurring biblical theme: the call to remember one's own past struggles and to let that memory inform how one treats others. This command is not just about social justice but is deeply theological, reflecting God's character and His desire for His people to embody His love and justice in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who delivered God's laws and commandments, including the exhortation in Deuteronomy 10:19.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were once foreigners and slaves in Egypt, and to whom the command to love the foreigner is given.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites lived as foreigners and were enslaved before God delivered them through Moses.

4. Foreigners (Gerim)
Non-Israelites living among the Israelites, often vulnerable and without the same rights as native-born citizens.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which the Israelites were entering, where they were to practice justice and love towards foreigners.

Teaching Points

Understanding Our Past
Recognize that the Israelites' past as foreigners in Egypt is a reminder of their dependence on God's grace and provision. Similarly, Christians should remember their own past and God's grace in their lives.

Love as a Command
Loving the foreigner is not optional but a command from God. It reflects His character and His love for all people, regardless of their background.

Empathy and Compassion
By remembering their own experiences, the Israelites were to develop empathy and compassion for others. Christians are called to do the same, understanding and supporting those who are marginalized or different.

Reflecting God's Justice
God's command to love the foreigner is rooted in His justice and righteousness. Believers are called to reflect these attributes in their interactions with others.

Practical Hospitality
This command encourages practical expressions of love, such as hospitality, advocacy, and support for those who are new or different in our communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does remembering the Israelites' experience in Egypt help us understand the importance of loving foreigners today?

2. In what ways can we practically show love and hospitality to foreigners or strangers in our own communities?

3. How does the command to love the foreigner reflect God's character and His expectations for His people?

4. What are some barriers that might prevent us from loving foreigners, and how can we overcome them?

5. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament reinforce the command found in Deuteronomy 10:19?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:34
Reinforces the command to love the foreigner, emphasizing that they should be treated as native-born and loved as oneself.

Matthew 25:35
Jesus speaks about welcoming strangers as a reflection of serving Him, highlighting the importance of hospitality and love for others.

Hebrews 13:2
Encourages believers to show hospitality to strangers, suggesting that by doing so, some have entertained angels without knowing it.

Ephesians 2:19
Paul speaks of believers as no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God's people, emphasizing unity and love within the body of Christ.