A recent survey in 2024 found that just 26% of US Evangelical Christians say that the Bible primarily informs their views of the arrival of immigrants.
(Source: Lifeway Research. 2024 Evangelical Views on Immigration Study)
What informs many Christians? Sadly, it is the media, family, friends, and politicians.
According to Dr. Timothy Tennent, theologian and president of Asbury Theological Seminary,
“86% of the immigrant population in North America are likely to either be Christians or become Christians. That is far above the national average, The immigrant population presents the greatest hope for Christian renewal in North America. We shouldn’t see this as something that threatens us. We should see this as a wonderful opportunity!”
We need a reminder as followers of Jesus that welcoming and caring for our immigrant friends is Biblical and central to Christian discipleship and mission. The stories of the Bible are stories of immigrants and outsiders.
The Kingdom work of Migros Aid that is done locally has global implications for impact and transformation. I often think of those we serve whose families fled war-torn regions and how God might use them one day as they grow up to return to their people or some other region of the world to offer hope and healing in Christ’s name. Join in praying for that vision!
Remember what the Bible says!
“Do not oppress a foreigner; you yourselves know how it feels to be foreigners, because you were foreigners in Egypt.”—Exodus 23:9
“The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.”—Leviticus 19:34
“God Loves the Foreigner Residing Among You. He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing” – Deuteronomy 10:18-19
“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me..” – Matthew 25:35
by Joel Vestal. September 2024
