The Bible has a lot to say about asylum seekers and refugees. God cares deeply for displaced people and commands His followers to welcome and care for them. Here is an overview of some key biblical principles regarding asylum:
1. God calls His people to love foreigners and strangers
In the Old Testament, God reminds the Israelites that they were once mistreated foreigners in Egypt, so they should be kind to foreigners living among them (Exodus 22:21, Exodus 23:9, Leviticus 19:33-34). God makes clear that the foreigner should be treated with justice, mercy, and compassion.
In the New Testament, Christians are called to show hospitality to strangers (Romans 12:13, Hebrews 13:2). The Greek word for hospitality literally means “love of strangers.” Christians are exhorted to empathize with foreigners and welcome them with generosity.
2. Caring for asylum seekers reflects God’s heart for the vulnerable
God cares deeply for vulnerable people like orphans, widows, and foreigners. He hears their cries and is concerned about their needs (Deuteronomy 10:18-19, Psalm 146:9). As image-bearers of God, Christians are called to reflect His compassionate heart for the vulnerable and marginalized.
Asylum seekers often flee violence and persecution. Providing refuge reflects God’s mercy and upholds the value He places on human life. It is an act of justice, not just charity.
3. Offering asylum can be an act of mission and mercy
In offering refuge and comfort to those fleeing harm, Christians can share the love of Christ. As hosts, they can build relationships and share the gospel by word and deed (Matthew 25:35-40, Romans 12:13).
Biblically, caring for asylum seekers is connected to mercy ministry. It is an opportunity to show God’s grace and meet tangible needs of traumatized people.
4. Governments have biblical grounds to offer refuge
While Scripture does not provide specific policy guidelines, it does speak to principles that can guide governments. Biblically, one role of authorities is to execute justice and prevent evil (Romans 13).
Offering asylum to those fleeing persecution can be understood as a way government authorities protect the innocent. Additionally, Scripture calls kings and rulers to serve the needs of the poor and weak (Proverbs 31:8-9).
5. There are limits to a nation’s capacity for asylum seekers
While Scripture calls for welcoming strangers, it does not require countries to accept asylum seekers without limits. Governments must balance this hospitality with concerns for security, social cohesion, and economic welfare.
Nations are justified in vetting and placing some limits on asylum entry. However, this should be done with wisdom and compassion for those genuinely fleeing danger.
6. Asylum seekers should seek the welfare of their hosts
Just as nations are called to care for asylum seekers, Scripture exhorts refugees to bless the communities that take them in. God’s people are called to pray for and obey authorities wherever they reside (Jeremiah 29:7; 1 Peter 2:13-17).
Asylum seekers must not exploit the nations offering them refuge. They should contribute positively and respect the values and laws of the land.
7. We should aim for long-term resolution of the issues driving asylum
While offering refuge is important, we should also address root injustices that drive forced migration. Christians can advocate for peacemaking initiatives to resolve conflicts that create refugee crises.
The church can also partner with organizations engaged in reconciliation work and trauma healing for displaced peoples. Asylum is often a temporary measure. We should aim to establish conditions for secure repatriation.
8. Christians should lead in offering asylum and refugee care
Scripture provides theological grounds for churches to be at the forefront of providing asylum and empowering refugees. Whether through advocacy, volunteering, donating, or housing – Christians should mobilize to meet refugee needs.
Welcoming strangers is not just a political issue – it is integral to biblical discipleship and expressing the gospel. Churches should set an example in offering refuge.
9. We should not show favoritism to asylum seekers
In caring for asylum seekers and refugees, it is important we do not show favoritism or discriminate. Scripture instructs us to love our neighbors as ourselves, regardless of race, class, or nationality (Leviticus 19:33-34).
While asylum seekers have unique legal needs, we should aim to help them become integrated, productive members of society. They carry dignity and gifts like all people.
In conclusion, Scripture provides rich insight for how both individual Christians and societies should respond to asylum seekers. We are called to balance justice with compassion, security with hospitality. A biblical approach values both human life and human flourishing.