In the biblical context, the terms "foreigner" and "stranger" often refer to individuals who are not native to Israel or who do not belong to the Israelite community. These terms are used throughout the Old and New Testaments to describe people who live among the Israelites but are not part of the covenant community by birth.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew words "ger" (sojourner) and "nokri" (foreigner) are frequently used. The "ger" was typically a non-Israelite who lived among the Israelites and often adopted their customs and laws. The Law of Moses provided specific instructions on how the Israelites were to treat these individuals. Leviticus 19:33-34 states, "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."

The Israelites were reminded of their own history as strangers in Egypt, which served as a basis for their ethical treatment of foreigners. Deuteronomy 10:18-19 emphasizes God's care for the foreigner: "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."

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the Greek word "xenos" is often used to describe a stranger or foreigner. The teachings of Jesus and the apostles expanded the concept of community to include all believers, regardless of their ethnic or national background. Ephesians 2:19 declares, "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household."

The early church was characterized by its inclusivity, breaking down barriers between Jews and Gentiles. This is evident in the ministry of Jesus, who interacted with Samaritans and Gentiles, and in the writings of Paul, who emphasized the unity of believers in Christ. Galatians 3:28 states, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

Theological Significance

The treatment of foreigners and strangers in the Bible reflects a broader theological theme of God's love and justice. The consistent call to love and care for the foreigner underscores the biblical principle of hospitality and the recognition of the inherent dignity of all people. This theme is rooted in the character of God, who is described as a protector of the vulnerable and marginalized.

The inclusion of foreigners in the community of faith also foreshadows the universal scope of the gospel, which invites all people to become part of God's family through faith in Jesus Christ. This inclusivity is a testament to the transformative power of the gospel, which transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries.

Practical Implications

For believers today, the biblical teachings on foreigners and strangers encourage a posture of openness, compassion, and justice towards those who are different from us. The call to love the foreigner as oneself challenges Christians to reflect God's love in their interactions with others, advocating for the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their background.