In the biblical context, the presence and treatment of foreigners, or "sojourners," within the Israelite community is a recurring theme that reflects God's concern for justice, compassion, and holiness. The term "foreigner" in the Bible often refers to non-Israelites who lived among the Israelites, either temporarily or permanently. The Hebrew word "ger" is commonly used to describe these individuals, and it is translated as "foreigner," "sojourner," or "stranger" in various English versions of the Bible.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament provides numerous instructions regarding the treatment of foreigners. In the Law of Moses, God commands the Israelites to treat foreigners with kindness and fairness. 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." This commandment underscores the principle of empathy, reminding the Israelites of their own history as foreigners in Egypt.

The inclusion of foreigners in religious practices is also evident. In Exodus 12:48-49 , the Passover regulations allow for the participation of foreigners who are willing to be circumcised: "If a foreigner resides with you and wants to celebrate the LORD’s Passover, all the males in his household must be circumcised, and then he may partake as a native of the land. But no uncircumcised man may eat of it. The same law shall apply to both the native and the foreigner who resides among you."

Prophetic Writings

The prophets also address the treatment of foreigners, often linking it to the broader theme of justice. In Jeremiah 7:5-7 , the prophet calls the people to reform their ways, including their treatment of foreigners: "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, and if you no longer shed innocent blood in this place or follow other gods to your own harm, then I will let you live in this place, in the land that I gave to your fathers forever and ever."

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the theme of welcoming and loving foreigners is expanded through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus Himself, in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), illustrates the importance of showing mercy and love to all people, regardless of their ethnic or cultural background. This parable challenges the prevailing social norms and emphasizes that love for one's neighbor transcends ethnic boundaries.

The apostle Paul, in his letters, reiterates the unity of believers in Christ, regardless of their background. 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 statement highlights the inclusivity of the Christian community, where all believers are equal members of God's family.

Theological Implications

The biblical mandate to treat foreigners with love and justice reflects the character of God, who is described as a defender of the marginalized and oppressed. The consistent call to remember the Israelites' own experience as foreigners in Egypt serves as a moral and theological foundation for their treatment of others. This principle is rooted in the understanding that all people are created in the image of God and deserve dignity and respect.

The presence of foreigners in the biblical narrative also serves as a reminder of God's redemptive plan for all nations. The inclusion of non-Israelites in the community of faith foreshadows the New Testament revelation of the gospel being extended to all peoples, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham that "all the families of the earth will be blessed" through him (Genesis 12:3).