Immigration is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and the church can’t afford to sit idly by without a clear stance. Too often, our love for people causes us to disregard just laws because we feel bad about the situations many find themselves in. But righteousness—doing the right thing even when it’s difficult—demands that we uphold justice while extending grace.
Through a careful and structured process, I developed a Church Policy and Position on Immigration and Deportation, using a moral framework for Christian decision-making.
The Process: Applying a Christian Moral Framework
Arriving at a sound and biblically grounded policy required more than just personal opinions or societal trends—it required an intentional process of moral reasoning. Using a Christian Moral Framework for Decision-Making, I examined immigration through the lens of righteousness, justice, mercy, stewardship, and obedience to governing authorities. The steps included:
- Gathering the Facts – Understanding immigration laws, the current crisis at the border, and the government’s plans for deportation.
- Anchoring in Theological Positions – Recognizing that while the church welcomes all people, that does not mean inclusivity without moral standards.
- Employing Ethical Principles – Upholding justice for lawbreakers while advocating for humane treatment.
- Considering the Consequences – Weighing how different policies impact both individuals and society.
- Seeking Accountability – Engaging church leaders and trusted counselors in refining the position.
- Taking Action – Crafting a policy that churches can adopt or adapt for their leadership teams and congregations.
This process ensured that the position was not emotional or reactionary, but deeply rooted in biblical convictions and moral clarity.
What the Church Policy Includes
The Church Policy and Position on Immigration and Deportation serves as a template for churches to navigate this complex issue with wisdom. It includes:
- Commitment to Biblical Principles – A firm stand on justice, mercy, and righteousness.
- Neutrality in Law Enforcement – Churches are not obligated to report individuals but will cooperate with authorities in cases of clear criminal activity.
- Advocacy for Reform – Support for just immigration laws that allow law-abiding immigrants to integrate legally.
- Practical Ministry – Guidelines on how churches can serve immigrants without undermining legal standards.
- Interaction with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) – A defined protocol for handling encounters with immigration authorities.
Churches must proactively establish their stance rather than react in confusion when faced with tough decisions.
Why This Matters for Church Leaders
My hope is that churches will take this policy and clearly communicate their position—whether to their congregation, leadership team, or elder board. Too many churches stay silent, passive, or divided on immigration, which only leads to irrational and destructive reactions when crises arise. Unity comes from clarity.
A well-defined position equips church leaders to respond wisely when immigration issues affect their congregation or community. The worst course of action is to ignore current events and wait until a situation forces an unprepared response. Churches must think, pray, and decide soon.
Adopt or Adapt the Church Policy
To help church leaders, I am making the Church Policy and Position on Immigration and Deportation available for free. Adopt it as-is or adapt it to fit your church’s specific needs, theological convictions, or practicalities.
The church must be a place of welcome and grace. But also one that stands firm in righteousness and just order. Loving people does not mean erasing moral boundaries—it means holding them to a standard that leads to human flourishing, showcasing God’s character, vision, and will.
Lead with conviction, not confusion. Be both compassionate and just. It’s not just possible to do; it’s the task that must be taken.
To access the Church Policy and Position on Immigration and Deportation, click [here].