Learn to Reach Your World - S2 Episode 11
In this episode of the Learning to Reach Your World podcast, Patrick Bicknell and guest Josh explore the topic of immigration from a biblical Christian worldview. They frame the discussion within the broader goal of understanding how Christians can engage society with the gospel while balancing obedience to government and laws.
The discussion begins by acknowledging that government has a role in establishing laws, including immigration laws, for the welfare and safety of its citizens (Romans 13). Christians are called to obey these laws unless they directly conflict with God’s commands. However, the hosts emphasize that lawfulness should not replace a heart of compassion for immigrants and those in need.
Patrick and Josh highlight multiple biblical passages emphasizing care for foreigners:
Exodus 22:21 instructs not to oppress or wrong the immigrant, reminding God’s people that they too were once strangers in Egypt.
Matthew 25:31–46 depicts Christ’s final judgment, emphasizing that caring for the “stranger” is akin to serving Christ himself. Hospitality, protection, and love toward those in need are central to living out a Christian faith.
The conversation underscores that immigration is both a societal and gospel issue. Christians are encouraged to see immigrants not just as policy concerns, but as divine opportunities for evangelism and discipleship. The hosts share real-life examples:
Japanese children attending VBS in Michigan, where the gospel was shared in culturally appropriate ways.
A young Muslim woman named Amelia who came to know Christ.
College professors and neighbors who immigrated from Cuba, Germany, and Pakistan, whose stories of faith and perseverance inspired and shaped understanding of God’s providence.
The hosts stress that every immigrant is made in the image of God, deserving dignity, love, and respect. They caution Christians against prejudice, racist jokes, or dismissive attitudes, emphasizing the intersection of law, compassion, and evangelism. Practical tools for engaging with immigrants include learning languages, using technology for translation, and building authentic relationships that naturally provide gospel opportunities.
Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to:
Balance respect for lawful governance with a heart of compassion.
Look for gospel opportunities in diverse cultural settings.
Recognize that God’s providence often orchestrates encounters across cultural and geographic boundaries for the sake of the gospel.