Today, the Obama Administration took an important step to minimize the negative impact of our current immigration system by providing relief to Dream Students. Those who qualify will have an opportunity to stay in our nation to study and work without fear of deportation.
Evangelical Principles for Immigration Reform
“Where do you see the stranger? Jesus of Nazareth answered, ‘whatever you do to the least of these, you do to me.'” – Stephen Bauman in opening remarks at yesterday’s Evangelical Immigration Table.
In a move of radical unity over 100 liberal and conservative Evangelical Pastors, Organizational Heads, Denominational Leaders, and Seminary Representatives released a statement of principles marking Godly immigration reform.
Afterward the group boldly delivered the statement directly to the Obama Administration, Senate, and House of Representatives, demanding bipartisan action. In an era of cynicism about Christian unity, these Evangelical leaders have demonstrated that scripture and God’s call binds us together on mission and justice, empowering us to challenge our culture.
The statement calls for reform that:
– Respects the God-given dignity of every person?
– Protects the unity of the immediate family?
– Respects the rule of law
– Guarantees secure national borders ?
– Ensures fairness to taxpayers?
– Establishes a path toward legal status and/or citizenship for those who qualify and who wish to become permanent residents
The willingness of Christian leaders to put aside political, doctrinal, and denominational differences bears witness to the reconciliation that they have received in Christ, and reminds us of His heart for the Church spoken out in His high priestly prayer “that they may all be one… so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” (John 17:19-21 ESV) This prophetic act of oneness of our Evangelical leaders challenges the leaders of our country to reconcile their differences for the good of the world, and for Christians everywhere to love one another in radical ways.
View the Evangelical Statement of Principles for Immigration Reform
View the Evangelical Statement of Principles for Immigration Reform Signatories
