The concept of compassion for the foreigner is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's character and His expectations for His people. Throughout the Scriptures, God commands His followers to treat foreigners with kindness and justice, recognizing their vulnerability and need for protection.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, the Israelites are repeatedly reminded of their own history as foreigners in Egypt. This historical experience serves as a foundation for their ethical treatment of foreigners. In Exodus 22:21 , God commands, "You must not exploit or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt." This command is reiterated in Exodus 23:9, emphasizing empathy and justice.

Leviticus 19:33-34 further instructs, "When a foreigner resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. You must treat the foreigner living among you as native-born and love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God." This passage not only prohibits oppression but also calls for love and equality, reflecting the broader command to love one's neighbor.

Deuteronomy 10:18-19 highlights God's own actions and character: "He executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and He loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing. So you also must love the foreigner, since you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt." Here, God's love for the foreigner is presented as a model for His people to emulate.

Prophetic Voices

The prophets also echo this theme, often linking the treatment of foreigners with righteousness and justice. In Jeremiah 7:5-7 , the prophet warns, "For if you really change your ways and deeds, if you act justly toward one another, if you no longer oppress the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow... then I will let you live in this place, in the land that I gave to your fathers forever and ever." The treatment of foreigners is a litmus test for the nation's faithfulness to God.

New Testament Continuation

The New Testament continues this theme, expanding the scope of compassion and inclusion. Jesus' ministry often crossed cultural and ethnic boundaries, demonstrating God's love for all people. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus illustrates that love and compassion transcend ethnic and national boundaries, challenging His followers to show mercy to all, regardless of their background.

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, emphasizes the unity of believers from diverse backgrounds. In Ephesians 2:19 , he writes, "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household." This reflects the breaking down of barriers and the creation of a new community in Christ.

Theological Implications

The biblical mandate for compassion towards foreigners is rooted in the character of God and His redemptive plan for humanity. It calls believers to reflect God's love and justice in their interactions with those who are different from themselves. This theme challenges the faithful to consider their attitudes and actions towards immigrants and strangers in their midst, urging them to embody the love and grace that God has shown to all people.