In the biblical context, the terms "foreigners" and "sojourners" refer to individuals who reside temporarily or permanently in a land that is not their native country. The Hebrew word "ger" and the Greek word "xenos" are often translated as "foreigner" or "sojourner" in the Scriptures. These terms encompass a range of individuals, including travelers, immigrants, and those seeking refuge.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament provides numerous references to foreigners and sojourners, reflecting the diverse and multicultural nature of ancient Israelite society. The Israelites themselves were once sojourners in Egypt, as God reminded them in Exodus 22:21: "You must not exploit or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt." This historical experience shaped the Israelites' ethical obligations towards foreigners.

The Mosaic Law contains specific instructions regarding the treatment of foreigners. Leviticus 19:33-34 commands, "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 directive emphasizes the importance of justice, compassion, and equality.

Foreigners were also included in religious observances and community life. In Numbers 15:15-16, the law states, "The assembly is to have the same statute for both you and the foreign resident; it is a permanent statute for the generations to come. You and the foreigner shall be the same before the LORD." This inclusion underscores the universality of God's covenant and the call to holiness for all who dwell in the land.

New Testament Context

The New Testament continues the theme of hospitality and kindness towards foreigners. Jesus Himself was a sojourner, as seen in Matthew 2:13-15, when His family fled to Egypt to escape King Herod's decree. This experience of displacement is echoed in Jesus' teachings, where He identifies with the marginalized and the stranger. In Matthew 25:35, Jesus says, "For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in."

The early Christian community was characterized by its inclusivity and love for all people, regardless of their background. The Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 2:19, writes, "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household." This passage highlights the breaking down of barriers and the formation of a new, unified identity in Christ.

Theological Significance

The treatment of foreigners and sojourners in the Bible reflects God's heart for justice, mercy, and inclusion. It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human life and the call to live as citizens of God's kingdom. The biblical narrative encourages believers to extend hospitality and love to all, recognizing that all people are created in the image of God and deserving of dignity and respect.

Throughout Scripture, the presence of foreigners and sojourners challenges God's people to live out their faith in tangible ways, demonstrating the love and grace that they have received. The biblical mandate to care for the stranger is a call to reflect God's character and to participate in His redemptive work in the world.