As Christians, we are called to joyfully share our faith and hope with all people. As followers of Jesus Christ, we are guided by love. The Bible repeatedly declares God’s love and care for all people, and requires that “The same law shall apply to the native-born as to the alien living among you.” (Exod. 12:49) Similarly, “You are to have the same law for the alien and the native-born. I am the LORD your God.” (Lev. 24:22)
The National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) is deeply concerned by a growing spirit of hostility towards immigrants and refugees who have become residents in our communities. While we recognize that some of our constituency feels strongly concerning issues of justice and law, we are all compelled by the love of Christ to act with compassion to our neighbors. Therefore, we pledge to eliminate the spirit of racism in any of our responses. While we recognize the right of nations to regulate their borders, we believe this responsibility should be exercised with a concern for the entire human family in a spirit of generosity and compassion. (Deut. 10:19, Leviticus 19:34)
Furthermore, we acknowledge that immigrants and refugees contribute much to the continuing strength and vitality of local communities and our country by their commitment to work, education, and the family.
We call upon our government, therefore, to maintain reasonable and just admissions policies for refugees and immigrants. As evangelicals responsible to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matt. 22:39), we are called to show personal and corporate hospitality to those who seek a new life in our nation.