
During an inaugural prayer service, a spiritual leader from the Episcopal Diocese of Washington addressed the U.S. president in her sermon. She urged him to reconsider his policies on immigrants and the LGBT community, emphasizing the biblical principle of "love thy neighbor." This story gained global media attention, leading several of my Muslim friends to ask for my thoughts on her interpretation. My response to Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde’s interpretation of Scripture regarding our duty to love immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals in today’s world is as follows.
Migration has greatly influenced civilizations and cultures, with key examples like Abraham in the Bible and the Israelites' exiles in 722 BC, 586 BC, and 70 AD. Today, migration is driven by wars, persecution, and economic opportunities, leading to challenges in integration and resource management, especially in Europe and North America. While some advocate for "love thy neighbor," others emphasize caring for their families first. The Bible offers perspectives on balancing both.
The Scriptures advocate for the care of immigrants, as emphasized in Exodus 22:21: “You shall not wrong a sojourner or oppress him, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt.” This call to love is reinforced throughout the Bible, highlighting God’s unending compassion for all people, regardless of their origin (Leviticus 19:33–34; Deuteronomy 10:18–19; 24:19–22; Ezekiel 47:21–23; Zechariah 7:10; Malachi 3:5; Hebrews 13:2; Matthew 25:35; Galatians 3:26–29).
At the same time, the Scriptures remind us that immigrants must also respect the laws and customs of their host countries (Isaiah 56:6–7) and integrate into their new cultures (Deuteronomy 5:14; 16:9–15). Upholding the law is essential even under challenging circumstances (Proverbs 6:30–31). This balance between love for others and respect for the law is vital to the biblical perspective on immigration.
Additionally, I believe it is essential to recognize that the Bible supports the principle of border security. The foundation for this belief can be found in Deuteronomy 32:8: “When the Most High gave to the nations their inheritance when he divided mankind, he fixed the borders of the peoples.” The parameters of the Promised Land are specified in Numbers 34:1–15 and Ezekiel 47:13–23. Furthermore, we are urged, “Do not move the ancient landmark that your fathers have set” (Proverbs 22:28). This emphasis on borders underscores the significance of maintaining sovereignty.
Regarding her comments about LGBTQ+ individuals, the Bible clearly states that all people are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27a) and are deeply loved by Him (John 17:23, 26). However, it also affirms that “male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27b) and that marriage is defined as a covenant between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:18–25; Ephesians 5:22–33; Colossians 3:18–19). Sexual intimacy is intended solely for men and women within this covenant (Exodus 20:14; Hebrews 13:4; Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Romans 1:26–27; 1 Corinthians 6:9–11; 1 Timothy 1:8–11).
Ultimately, the Scriptures call us to extend mercy to others (Luke 6:36; James 2:13; Matthew 5:7), but they also instruct us to pursue justice and uphold the rule of law (Isaiah 1:17; Amos 5:24; Proverbs 21:15). This responsibility is particularly incumbent upon our governmental leaders (Romans 13:1–7). We are inspired to uphold these critical values by reaffirming the biblical commitment to justice and mercy. ─ Steven Masood