Topics

Strangers

Scripture calls believers to welcome and care for strangers as a reflection of God's character and our own experience of His grace. This duty stems from recognizing that God Himself defends the vulnerable and commands His people to do likewise.

Overview

The Bible establishes care for strangers as a fundamental expression of God's character and a requirement for His people. God's concern for the sojourner and foreigner appears throughout Scripture, rooted in Israel's own history as strangers in Egypt. This compassion flows from the heart of God and should characterize His followers.

Key Scriptures

"He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing" (Deuteronomy 10:18, ESV).

"Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt" (Deuteronomy 10:19, ESV).

"When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God" (Leviticus 19:33-34, ESV).

Application

Examine your community and look for practical ways to welcome, serve, and show genuine Christian love to strangers and immigrants in your midst.

Scripture References 2
Full Topical Reference List 2 total — Nave's Topical Bible