For centuries, a quiet theological debate has unfolded within Christianity regarding borders – are they divinely ordained, or a human construct? Many believers point to scripture, finding within its ancient texts a clear affirmation of national boundaries as part of a purposeful, divine order.
Consider Acts 17:26, a verse frequently cited in these discussions. It speaks of God establishing “the bounds of their habitation” for all nations, suggesting a deliberate arrangement of peoples across the earth. This idea resonates with passages in the Old Testament, detailing how God assigned specific lands to different nations, like the territories of Edom, Moab, and Ammon, explicitly forbidding Israel from encroaching upon them.
Recently, Pope Leo XIV entered this complex conversation with a statement that surprised many. He unequivocally affirmed a nation’s right to control its borders, stating plainly that no one advocates for completely open borders. He stressed the importance of treating migrants humanely, but insisted that compassion doesn’t negate a country’s lawful authority.
This position isn’t a departure, but a reflection of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. It teaches that while prosperous nations should welcome those seeking refuge, they simultaneously retain the right to regulate immigration for the common good. The Catechism emphasizes that immigrants are expected to respect the laws and cultural heritage of their new home.
The argument isn’t simply about legal technicalities; it’s about order and justice. Leaders like Kelsey Reinhardt of CatholicVote argue that a broken immigration system fosters exploitation, empowers criminal cartels, and leaves millions vulnerable. Enforcing existing laws, she contends, isn’t immoral, but a necessary step towards protecting both migrants and citizens.
Former Acting Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, Ken Cuccinelli, echoes this sentiment, highlighting the two core principles within the Catechism. The United States, he points out, has historically been generous in welcoming immigrants, but an individual who enters illegally, by definition, disregards the laws and customs of the nation.
The biblical precedent extends beyond simply establishing borders. The rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls in the Book of Nehemiah is presented as a divinely sanctioned project – a testament to the importance of secure boundaries. Ancient land inheritance laws further reinforce the idea that defined borders were integral to the covenant relationship between God and Israel.
Even New Testament teachings on civil authority are brought into the discussion. Romans 13, for example, asserts that governing authorities are ordained by God and wield the “sword” – a symbol of their responsibility to maintain order and enforce justice. Submission to these authorities, some argue, extends to immigration laws.
A crucial distinction is often drawn between the “ger” – the lawful resident alien who submits to a nation’s authority – and the unauthorized foreigner. Scripture commands kindness towards the “ger,” but also offers warnings about the potential for disorder when foreigners disregard established laws and rise above the native population.
Ultimately, a compelling case emerges from both the Catechism and scripture: nations possess a legitimate right to regulate immigration. This provides a powerful response to those who question how a Christian can support border enforcement – a response rooted not in politics, but in a deeply held theological conviction.
