What does Matthew 25 say about immigrants?

Matthew 25, especially verses 31–46, contains Jesus’ teaching known as the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats. But what does Matthew 25 really say about immigrants? How should Christians interpret and apply these verses in the context of welcoming strangers?

Exploring Matthew 25: The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats

Matthew 25:31–46 presents a vivid scene of judgment. Jesus describes a time when the “Son of Man” will come in glory, and all nations will be gathered before him. People are separated as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. The “sheep” are placed on the right and welcomed into the kingdom, while the “goats” are placed on the left and sent away.

The central message of the passage is found in the criteria Jesus uses for this separation. The sheep are those who showed compassion: feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, welcoming strangers, clothing the naked, caring for the sick, and visiting prisoners. Jesus says, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” In contrast, the goats are those who failed to perform these acts of mercy.

The Meaning of ‘Stranger’ in Matthew 25

A key term in this passage is “stranger.” In the original Greek text, the word used is “xenos,” which can be translated as “stranger,” “foreigner,” or “immigrant.” The implication is clear—those who are outsiders, newcomers, or people without a home or community. Jesus’ inclusion of welcoming the stranger among the acts of mercy is significant. It suggests that hospitality and care for those outside our immediate circles is not optional for his followers; rather, it is a mark of true discipleship.

Biblical Context: Hospitality and the Foreigner

Matthew 25’s teaching is not isolated. The call to care for the stranger runs throughout the Scriptures. In the Old Testament, God commands the Israelites, “You shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the heart of a stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Exodus 23:9). Leviticus 19:34 urges, “The stranger who resides with you shall be to you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself.”

Jesus’ words in Matthew 25 echo this ancient call. By making the treatment of strangers a decisive factor in the final judgment, he underscores the importance of hospitality and compassion as core elements of faith. The message is radical: how we treat immigrants and outsiders reflects our relationship to Jesus himself.

Theological Implications: Seeing Christ in the Stranger

Matthew 25 challenges believers to look beyond superficial differences and recognize the divine image in every person. The parable makes a profound theological claim—when we welcome the stranger, we welcome Christ. When we turn away the outsider, we turn away Christ. This identification with the marginalized is central to Jesus’ ministry and teaching.

This perspective transforms the issue of immigration from a political debate to a spiritual and moral imperative. The question is not merely, “What is the right policy?” but “How do I see and respond to Christ in the immigrant, the refugee, the outsider?”

Real-World Application: Faith Communities and Immigrants

Throughout history, many Christian communities have taken Jesus’ words in Matthew 25 as a call to action. Churches have established ministries for refugees, asylum seekers, and undocumented immigrants. They have provided food, shelter, legal aid, and advocacy. These efforts are not just acts of charity; they are expressions of faithfulness to Jesus’ teaching.

However, this call is not without controversy. Some Christians argue that welcoming immigrants may pose risks or challenges to society. Others point to the need for laws and order. Yet, Matthew 25 does not offer exceptions. The command is simple and direct: welcome the stranger. It is up to each community and individual to discern how best to do this, but the imperative to act remains clear.

Modern Interpretations and Debates

In today’s world, the debate over immigration is often heated and divisive. Some argue that biblical texts like Matthew 25 are being misapplied to modern immigration policies. Others insist that the mandate to welcome the stranger is timeless. It is important to remember the context of Jesus’ teaching. He speaks to individual and communal responsibility, not to the functions of the state. Yet, for many Christians, personal and collective action is guided by this vision of compassionate welcome.

Some theologians also emphasize that “the least of these” in Matthew 25 may refer specifically to fellow Christians or missionaries. However, the broader biblical witness supports an ethic of hospitality to all people, especially those in need. The New Testament, in Hebrews 13:2, reminds believers, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”

Challenges and Opportunities

Welcoming immigrants is not always easy. It can involve cultural adjustments, economic costs, and political pushback. But Matthew 25 does not present mercy as an option only when it is convenient. The passage challenges believers to step out of their comfort zones, to risk, and to build bridges across divides.

At the same time, the story is one of opportunity. Acts of hospitality and compassion can transform both the giver and the receiver. Many Christian communities have found that embracing immigrants brings new life, diversity, and growth to their congregations. It is a chance to live out the Gospel in tangible ways.