For a long time, Christians have struggled with balancing mercy and order, compassion and responsibility. This issue is central to the ongoing immigration debate, where some religious leaders assert that the Bible instructs us to “welcome the stranger.” They often advocate for open borders and tolerance toward illegal immigration. However, this interpretation, while well-meaning, may misinterpret Scripture, Christian charity, and the rightful role of civil government.
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson deserves praise for expressing this balance. In a recent press conference, he highlighted his Christian beliefs, emphasizing that the Bible does not call for governments to neglect their duties. Instead, it reinforces a moral obligation to maintain order, enforce laws, and ensure public safety. Johnson’s comments serve as a necessary contrast to a growing trend among some clergy who may selectively quote the Bible, overlooking its broader messages.
It’s important for Christians to appreciate the moral commitments of pastors, but using the Bible carelessly or for specific agendas to justify policies that compromise law and order needs to be addressed. While the Bible promotes compassion, it also clearly addresses personal responsibility, justice, authority, and the role of civil governance. These principles shouldn’t be overlooked in discussions about immigration.
The idea of “hospitality to strangers in your land” is rooted in Old Testament laws for Israel and is echoed in the New Testament, which emphasizes individual duties and communal charity. God’s followers are indeed called to treat others with dignity rather than cruelty. But pious mercy should not force governments to neglect borders or abandon law enforcement entirely. Ancient Israel set its own rules and expectations regarding entry.
Christian charity was never intended to erase legal boundaries. Mercy doesn’t necessitate confusion. Jesus’ command to “love your neighbor” cannot be interpreted as support for policies that foster illegal immigration, human trafficking, or the misuse of migration routes by cartels.
Governments can be compassionate while insisting that entry occurs legally and orderly. Confusing mercy with wrongful actions creates a false moral dilemma that the Bible does not support.
Romans 13:1-7 is particularly relevant in this context. The Apostle Paul states that civil authorities are “ministers of God” whose purpose is to reward good and punish evil. He reassures that those who follow the law have nothing to fear, while lawbreakers will face consequences. This perspective is clear in Christian thought and supports respect for legal authority, including immigration law.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers work to enforce laws devised by Congress, often under challenging and risky circumstances. Their roles have been complicated by decades of neglected immigration policies, especially from the political left, which have favored rhetoric over tangible solutions and emotion over American sovereignty. Mixed signals, inconsistent enforcement, and blanket amnesty have undermined the system, leading to increased illegal immigration.
The repercussions of inadequate enforcement are tangible. Communities nationwide are feeling the weight on schools, hospitals, housing, and law enforcement. Sadly, crime affects Americans in ways that could have been avoided through effective border control.
At the same time, migrants themselves often become victims of exploitation, mistreatment, and abandonment along their journeys. Flawed systems negatively impact both citizens and immigrants. Citing scripture doesn’t inherently validate a stance.
Clergy can significantly influence moral conscience, but that influence comes with responsibility. The Bible should not be weaponized to justify wrongdoing or discredit those responsible for maintaining the law. Pastors can certainly encourage acts of mercy and generosity, but they should carefully consider whether they are using their voices to push the country to forsake its obligation to govern fairly.
A genuine Christian approach to immigration must neither embrace cruelty nor exhibit indifference, and it certainly should avoid naivety. Borders are not inherently immoral; the law can exist with compassion. A government that enforces its laws while striving for humane, lawful reform aligns with biblical teachings.
It’s time for religious leaders to cease misusing the Bible in this discussion and to fully embrace the guidance of Scripture, affirming the essential balance of mercy, order, and the rule of law.
