Illegal Immigration & the Church: A Biblical Perspective
In the 17th episode of the Just a Thinker podcast, released on March 4, 2025, we sat down with Chad Goble to discuss the intersection of illegal immigration and the church’s role in addressing it. This conversation stemmed from an earlier blog post where I took a compassionate yet structured stance on immigration, viewing it through a biblical and practical lens.
A Complex but Necessary Discussion
Illegal immigration is a highly debated issue, especially within the church. As believers, our challenge is to navigate the balance between respecting the law and extending grace to those in difficult circumstances. Should the church take an active role in assisting undocumented individuals? If so, what does that look like in a biblical framework?
Chad emphasized the importance of having these conversations openly and honestly. Many Christians carry a mix of personal beliefs, political ideologies, and scriptural teachings, making it necessary to refine our thoughts through discussion and prayer. Ignoring this issue only widens the divide between biblical principles and real-world application.
Biblical Foundation: Love and Impartiality
Chad brought up a crucial point: as Christians, our worldview must be rooted in Scripture rather than political or national labels. The Bible commands us to love our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:31) and to show impartiality (James 2:1-9). This means we must evaluate immigration through the lens of biblical justice and mercy, not just through national policy.
Many illegal immigrants arrive seeking safety and a better life for their families. If we were in their shoes, would we not do the same? The biblical call to love and care for the sojourner (Leviticus 19:33-34) compels us to consider our response carefully.
Chad also highlighted the challenge of balancing law and compassion. While nations have the right to enforce borders and laws, our responsibility as believers is to recognize the humanity in each person. We are called to extend love and assistance without partiality, understanding that every person is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27).
The Church’s Responsibility: Thought and Action
Our conversation emphasized that while discussion is necessary, action is essential. Here are practical ways the church can engage:
1. Educate and Support – Many immigrants in our congregations desire legal status but lack resources or knowledge about the process. Connecting them with immigration attorneys and financial support can be life changing. In some cases, churches have already formed networks to assist with legal navigation, but more can be done.
2. Embody Compassion Over Fear – Fear often prevents believers from engaging in difficult topics. However, Scripture reminds us that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7). Chad pointed out that too often, Christians allow political rhetoric or societal labels to dictate their perspective instead of grounding themselves in biblical truth.
3. Avoid Favoritism – Our love and support should not be reserved only for those we know personally. Biblical justice requires us to be fair and impartial, which is hard because we want our brothers and sisters moved to the front of the line.
4. Taking Real Action – James 2:14-17 reminds us that faith without works is dead. If we claim to love our neighbors, that love must be demonstrated through tangible support. This could involve helping immigrants secure documentation, fundraising for legal fees, or simply making them feel welcome within our communities. Chad stressed that inaction often stems from discomfort or fear, but real discipleship demands movement.
5. Navigating the Legal and Social Landscape – One of the biggest challenges is helping immigrants in a way that does not place them in further danger. Many fear deportation, and trust is critical. Churches should work with experienced legal professionals to ensure that aid is both effective and ethical.
Faith in Action
As Chad pointed out, genuine faith demands real action. Illegal immigration is a complex issue, but as followers of Christ, our primary identity is in Him, not in political ideologies, or national origin. If we approach this issue with a biblical mindset, we will find ways to uphold justice while extending grace, embodying the love of Christ in a broken world.
Furthermore, Chad emphasized that we must be careful in framing these discussions. If we soften the language too much, we risk diminishing the seriousness of the issue. Just as Jesus calls out sin directly while extending grace, we must acknowledge the legal reality while working toward solutions that align with biblical principles.
The challenge remains: will we allow our faith to move beyond words and into tangible action? If so, our churches will not only grow in their love for the immigrant but will reflect Christ’s mission more fully.
What do you think? How should the church engage in this issue? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
