50+ Bible Verses About Immigration (And What They Mean)

Immigration is a topic that has been around for centuries, and the Bible has a lot to say about it. This article brings together 50 Bible verses that touch on the subject.

These verses offer a range of perspectives, from welcoming strangers to seeking justice for the oppressed. Whether you're looking for guidance or just curious, these passages provide valuable insights.

What Does the Bible Say About Immigration

The Bible offers a rich tapestry of insights on immigration, touching on themes of love, justice, and community. These verses remind us of the importance of welcoming strangers and treating everyone with kindness and respect. They encourage us to see the humanity in others, regardless of their background or circumstances.

One key theme is the call to welcome and love strangers. Verses like Leviticus 19:34 and Matthew 25:35 highlight the importance of empathy and hospitality. They remind us that we were all strangers at some point and that extending a hand to those in need is a powerful act of love.

Justice is another important theme. Verses such as Deuteronomy 24:17 and Isaiah 1:17 urge us to stand up for the vulnerable, including immigrants. They call us to act with fairness and compassion, ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Unity and equality are also emphasized. Galatians 3:28 and Ephesians 2:19 remind us that in God's eyes, we are all equal. These verses encourage us to break down barriers and create inclusive communities where everyone feels valued and accepted.

Finally, the Bible speaks to the power of love and hospitality. Verses like 1 John 4:19-21 and Romans 13:10 show that love is the foundation of all our actions. By loving our neighbors as ourselves, we can build stronger, more compassionate communities.

50 Bible Verses About Immigration

10 Bible Verses on Welcoming Immigrants

1) Leviticus 19:34

The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.

Meaning: This verse reminds us that empathy stems from shared experiences. By recalling their own history as strangers, the Israelites are encouraged to extend love and acceptance to others in similar situations.

2) Matthew 25:35

For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in.

Meaning: While the world often teaches us to look out for ourselves, this verse reveals the profound impact of simple acts of kindness. It reminds us that caring for others, especially those in need, is a powerful way to connect with our shared humanity.

3) Hebrews 13:2

Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.

Meaning: What if the next person you help is more than they seem? This verse nudges us to see every encounter as an opportunity for divine connection, challenging us to embrace the unexpected with open hearts.

4) Deuteronomy 10:19

Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.

Meaning: When you see someone new or different, remember your own moments of feeling out of place. It's like offering a warm blanket to someone shivering in the cold; your kindness can make all the difference.

5) Exodus 22:21

You shall neither mistreat a stranger nor oppress him, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.

Meaning: Treating others with kindness and respect, especially those who are new or different, can create a more welcoming and inclusive community. It's about remembering our own vulnerabilities and extending a hand to those who need it.

6) Romans 12:13

distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality

Meaning: What does it mean to truly care for others? In a world that often prioritizes self-interest, this verse challenges us to go beyond our comfort zones and extend genuine kindness and support to those around us.

7) 1 Peter 4:9

Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.

Meaning: Offering hospitality is like opening a door to your heart. When you welcome others warmly and without complaint, you create a space where kindness and connection can flourish.

8) Isaiah 58:7

Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; when you see the naked, that you cover him, and not hide yourself from your own flesh?

Meaning: Ever felt the warmth of giving a meal to someone in need? This verse stirs a sense of compassion, urging us to see and respond to the struggles of others as if they were our own family.

9) Luke 14:13-14

But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just.

Meaning: True generosity shines when we give without expecting anything in return. It's a reminder that the most meaningful acts of kindness often come from helping those who can't repay us, enriching our lives in unexpected ways.

10) Job 31:32

But no sojourner had to lodge in the street, for I have opened my doors to the traveler.

Meaning: We often rush through life, barely noticing those around us. This verse nudges us to slow down and open our hearts and homes to those in need, creating moments of genuine connection.

10 Bible Verses on Refugees and Strangers

11) Deuteronomy 24:17

You shall not pervert justice due the stranger or the fatherless, nor take a widow’s garment as a pledge.

Meaning: Justice is a gift we give to others. It's about treating everyone fairly, especially those who are most vulnerable, and ensuring that our actions uplift rather than harm them.

12) Jeremiah 7:6

If you do not oppress the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place, or walk after other gods to your hurt

Meaning: The wisdom here is profound: treating others with fairness and compassion, especially the vulnerable, is a reflection of our own integrity and values. It's a call to act justly and live in a way that honors the dignity of every person.

13) Zechariah 7:10

Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the alien or the poor. Let none of you plan evil in his heart against his brother.

Meaning: At its core, this verse calls us to act with compassion and integrity, urging us to protect and uplift those who are most vulnerable. It's a powerful reminder that our actions and intentions should always aim to build a just and caring community.

14) Malachi 3:5

And I will come near you for judgment; I will be a swift witness against sorcerers, against adulterers, against perjurers, against those who exploit wage earners and widows and orphans, and against those who turn away an alien—because they do not fear Me,” says the Lord of hosts.

Meaning: Embrace the call to stand up for justice and fairness in your daily interactions. Whether it's at work, in your community, or within your family, let this verse inspire you to act with integrity and compassion, ensuring that everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

15) Psalm 146:9

The Lord watches over the strangers; He relieves the fatherless and widow; But the way of the wicked He turns upside down.

Meaning: In moments of uncertainty, it's comforting to know that there is a watchful presence caring for those who feel alone or vulnerable. This verse gently reassures us that even in our toughest times, we are not forgotten.

16) Ezekiel 22:7

In you they have made light of father and mother; in your midst they have oppressed the stranger; in you they have mistreated the fatherless and the widow.

Meaning: The verse paints a vivid picture of the consequences of neglect and mistreatment. It calls us to honor and protect the vulnerable, reminding us that our actions have profound impacts on those around us.

17) Matthew 2:13-15

Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.” When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.”

Meaning: When life feels uncertain and you’re unsure of the next step, remember that guidance often comes in unexpected ways. Trusting in a higher plan can turn moments of fear into acts of faith.

18) Ruth 1:16

Entreat me not to leave you, or to turn back from following after you; for wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.

Meaning: In moments of uncertainty, this verse reminds us of the unwavering commitment and loyalty that can be found in relationships. It's a beautiful assurance that we are never truly alone, as love and faithfulness guide our steps.

19) Genesis 12:1

Now the Lord had said to Abram: “Get out of your country, from your family and from your father’s house, to a land that I will show you.

Meaning: Take a moment to consider the courage it takes to step into the unknown. This verse invites us to trust in a higher plan, encouraging us to embrace new beginnings with faith and confidence.

20) Acts 7:6

But God spoke in this way: that his descendants would dwell in a foreign land, and that they would bring them into bondage and oppress them four hundred years.

Meaning: This verse captures the resilience and faith required to endure long periods of hardship. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is a promise of eventual deliverance and hope.

10 Bible Verses on Justice for Immigrants

21) Deuteronomy 27:19

Cursed is the one who perverts the justice due the stranger, the fatherless, and widow

Meaning: When life feels unfair, remember that standing up for justice, especially for the vulnerable, is a powerful act of resilience. Your commitment to fairness can be a beacon of hope in challenging times.

22) Proverbs 31:8-9

Open your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

Meaning: Sometimes, we need a gentle reminder to use our voices for those who can't speak for themselves. It's about standing up for what's right and ensuring that everyone, especially the vulnerable, is treated with fairness and compassion.

23) Isaiah 1:17

Learn to do good; Seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow.

Meaning: True growth often comes from stepping up and taking action. By actively seeking justice and standing up for the vulnerable, we become agents of positive change in our communities.

24) Jeremiah 22:3

Execute judgment and righteousness, and deliver the plundered out of the hand of the oppressor. Do no wrong and do no violence to the stranger, the fatherless, or the widow, nor shed innocent blood in this place.

Meaning: God's call for justice and compassion is unwavering. His timeless wisdom urges us to act with integrity and kindness, ensuring that everyone, especially the vulnerable, is treated with dignity and respect.

25) Micah 6:8

He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?

Meaning: Ever wondered what it truly means to live a fulfilling life? Embrace justice, show kindness, and stay humble—these simple yet profound actions can transform your daily interactions and bring deeper meaning to your journey.

26) Psalm 82:3

Defend the poor and fatherless; Do justice to the afflicted and needy.

Meaning: In moments of doubt, remember that standing up for the vulnerable is a powerful act of faith. God's call to protect and uplift those in need is a promise you can rely on, offering a solid foundation for your actions.

27) Leviticus 24:22

You shall have the same law for the stranger and for one from your own country; for I am the Lord your God.

Meaning: In ancient times, laws often favored locals over outsiders. This verse flips that notion, urging us to see everyone as equal under God's law, challenging us to extend fairness and justice to all, regardless of their origin.

28) Exodus 23:9

Also you shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the heart of a stranger, because you were strangers in the land of Egypt.

Meaning: When life feels chaotic and unwelcoming, remember the times you've felt out of place. This verse encourages us to extend kindness and understanding, transforming moments of isolation into opportunities for connection and empathy.

29) Zechariah 8:16-17

These are the things you shall do: Speak each man the truth to his neighbor; Give judgment in your gates for truth, justice, and peace; Let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; And do not love a false oath. For all these are things that I hate, says the Lord.

Meaning: What if you made truth, justice, and peace the cornerstones of your daily interactions? Embrace this invitation to live with integrity and kindness, creating a ripple effect of positive change in your community.

30) Proverbs 22:22-23

Do not rob the poor because he is poor, nor oppress the afflicted at the gate; For the Lord will plead their cause, and plunder the soul of those who plunder them.

Meaning: Ever felt like the odds are stacked against you? Take heart, knowing that God stands up for those who are vulnerable, ensuring that justice will prevail in the end.

10 Bible Verses on Love and Hospitality

31) 1 John 4:19-21

We love Him because He first loved us. If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.

Meaning: The word "first" is a game-changer here. It's like receiving an unexpected gift that makes you want to give back; God's love initiates a cycle of love that we are invited to continue with others.

32) Romans 13:10

Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

Meaning: In the midst of life's chaos, remember that love is your anchor. It's a gentle reminder that God's love guides us to treat others with kindness and respect, bringing peace and assurance to our hearts.

33) 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Meaning: In a world that often glorifies self-interest and pride, this verse offers a refreshing perspective on love. It encourages us to embrace patience, kindness, and humility, showing that true love is about putting others first and finding joy in their well-being.

34) Colossians 3:14

But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.

Meaning: Ever felt like something was missing? Embrace love as your guiding principle, and watch how it brings everything together in harmony.

35) Galatians 5:14

For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself."

Meaning: The beauty of this verse lies in its simplicity and depth. It poetically captures the essence of love, urging us to treat others with the same care and respect we desire for ourselves.

36) 1 Peter 3:8

Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous

Meaning: In every season of life, kindness and unity create a foundation of strength and support. "Compassion connects us" beautifully captures the essence of this timeless truth.

37) Ephesians 4:2

with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love

Meaning: In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to forget the importance of patience and kindness. Let this verse inspire you to approach others with a gentle heart and a spirit of love, making every interaction a little brighter.

38) John 13:34-35

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.

Meaning: Isn't it amazing how love can be the ultimate sign of our connection to God? It's a gentle reminder that through loving others, we reflect His grace and presence in our lives.

39) 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.

Meaning: God's heart is revealed in our acts of encouragement and support. It's a beautiful reminder that through uplifting each other, we reflect His love and build a stronger community of faith.

40) Hebrews 10:24

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works

Meaning: When life feels uncertain, remember that encouraging each other can be a powerful source of strength. It's a gentle nudge to lift our eyes beyond the present and focus on the greater good ahead.

10 Bible Verses on Foreigners and Neighbors

41) Numbers 15:15-16

One ordinance shall be for you of the assembly and for the stranger who dwells with you, an ordinance forever throughout your generations; as you are, so shall the stranger be before the Lord. One law and one custom shall be for you and for the stranger who dwells with you.

Meaning: The beauty of this verse lies in its call for unity and equality. It reminds us that embracing others with fairness and love can create a community where everyone feels valued and respected.

42) Acts 17:26

And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings

Meaning: In a world often divided by differences, this verse gently reminds us that we are all part of a larger, divine plan. It's a timeless call to recognize our shared humanity and the unique roles we each play in God's creation.

43) Galatians 3:28

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Meaning: Isn't it empowering to know that in God's eyes, we are all equal and united? This verse reassures us of the unwavering truth that we are all cherished and valued, regardless of our differences.

44) Ephesians 2:19

Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God

Meaning: Ever felt out of place? This verse reassures you that you belong, offering a sense of home and community where you are valued and loved.

45) Leviticus 25:23

The land shall not be sold permanently, for the land is Mine; for you are strangers and sojourners with Me.

Meaning: The enduring truth here is that everything we have is a gift from God. Embrace this perspective, and let it inspire you to live with gratitude and humility.

46) 1 Kings 8:41-43

Moreover, concerning a foreigner, who is not of Your people Israel, but has come from a far country for Your name’s sake (for they will hear of Your great name and Your strong hand and Your outstretched arm), when he comes and prays toward this temple, hear in heaven Your dwelling place, and do according to all for which the foreigner calls to You, that all peoples of the earth may know Your name and fear You, as do Your people Israel, and that they may know that this temple which I have built is called by Your name.

Meaning: Faith has a way of bringing us closer to God's unwavering love and protection. This verse reassures us that no matter where we come from, God hears our prayers and welcomes us into His embrace.

47) Isaiah 56:6-7

Also the sons of the foreigner who join themselves to the Lord, to serve Him, and to love the name of the Lord, to be His servants—everyone who keeps from defiling the Sabbath, and holds fast My covenant—even them I will bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on My altar; for My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations.

Meaning: God's presence is a comforting constant, welcoming everyone who seeks Him with an open heart. This verse encourages us to embrace inclusivity and unity, reminding us that faith transcends all boundaries and brings us together in His love.

48) Jeremiah 31:33-34

But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.

Meaning: There's a profound sense of belonging and forgiveness here, like finding a place where you're truly understood and accepted. It's a beautiful reminder that no matter our past, we are embraced and renewed by a love that knows no bounds.

49) Romans 10:12

For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him.

Meaning: Embrace the truth that we are all equal in God's eyes. Let this inspire you to treat everyone with the same love and respect, knowing that faith calls us to act with kindness and inclusivity.

50) Revelation 7:9

After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands

Meaning: Ever felt alone in your journey? This verse reassures you that you are part of a diverse and united family, all standing together in faith and hope.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About Immigration

Applying the Bible's teachings on immigration to our daily lives can make a big difference. These verses guide us to be more compassionate, just, and loving in our interactions with others.

Here are some practical steps to live out these biblical principles:

• Show kindness: Make it a habit to greet and welcome newcomers in your community, whether at work, school, or your neighborhood.
• Offer help: Volunteer at local shelters or organizations that support immigrants and refugees. Your time and effort can make a real impact.
• Pray for others: Include prayers for immigrants and refugees in your daily prayers, asking for their safety, well-being, and acceptance.
• Educate yourself: Learn about the challenges immigrants face and share this knowledge with others to foster understanding and empathy.
• Stand up for justice: Advocate for fair treatment of immigrants in your community and support policies that promote equality and justice.

Remember, God is always with you, guiding your actions and giving you strength. Your faith-driven efforts can bring about meaningful change and create a more loving and inclusive world.

For more prayers and Bible verses, visit PrayersFor or try our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.