This month we will be considering various worldview topics and how the church might respond.  The topic we will be considering in today’s Messenger is illegal immigration.

We have never witnessed such a significant influx of people entering the United States illegally within such a short span of time (2020-2024). The explosion of unlawful masses in our country has significant repercussions; it strains social services, overwhelms schools, and stresses healthcare facilities and public services. The financial burden on federal, state, and local governments have been enormous. The questions raised for the church are: 1) How can compassion for immigrants be properly viewed in a biblical context? 2) Do the needs of illegal migrants outweigh and supersede the laws of the land?

There is no doubt that Christians are called to be compassionate toward foreign immigrants. However, Romans 13 makes clear we are also to obey the governing authorities and laws.  The United States should honor a fair immigration policy for the sake of its legal citizenry and for maintaining an orderly society. Clearly, illegal immigration is the breaking of our governmental laws. There is nothing in Scripture that contradicts the idea of a sovereign nation passing and maintaining immigration laws. Illegal immigration is a controversial issue to be sure. Some argue that the immigration laws are unfair, unjust, and even discriminatory—thus justifying illegal entry. But one might just as easily argue that the government use of a certain amount of taxpayer dollars is unfair/unjust; does that then permit us to not pay our taxes?  Of course not!

Illegal immigration and deportation are complex issues. The vast majority of illegal immigrants in the United States have come for the purpose of having a better life, providing for their families, and escaping poverty. These are good goals and motivations. However, it is never biblical to violate standing laws to achieve the “good.” Illegal immigration usurps the rule of law and undermines fairness for those who follow the legal channels for citizenship. We should also note that unvetted illegal immigration is a threat to national security.

What might be the church’s response to illegal immigration? For starters, encourage obedience to the standing law. Since flagrant disobedience to immigration law is not appropriate, what can be done if we feel the laws are unjust? It is completely within our rights as citizens to seek to change a law. If it is your conviction that certain immigration laws and/or deportations are unjust, do what you can legally to change the law. Pray, petition, vote, peacefully protest, etc. But until laws are changed, Christians are to encourage submission to God by obeying the government He has placed in authority over us.

A closing thought. Christians must not lose sight of the fact that illegal immigrants possess an intrinsic value and worth bestowed upon them by God as His image bearers. This means the church must navigate a path that safeguards human rights, upholds the rule of law, and embodies compassion and grace.  

Pr. Ray Ballmann
Glen Rose, Texas