Evangelicals and Immigration: Divided or Seeking Common Ground?
Recent research shows that the topic of immigration, while hotly debated in America, might be more nuanced when it comes to evangelicals. How do evangelical church staff approach this topic? Are the views more divided, or is there common ground that we're missing?
According to a new study by Lifeway Research, there are some surprising insights that we, as evangelical church leaders, need to take into considering.
Evangelicals Care About Immigration, But Priorities Differ
35% of evangelicals listed forced displacement and migration as an urgent global issue for the church, alongside religious persecution and human trafficking. Yet, only 46% believe the church should be at the forefront of aiding displaced people. This data suggests that while a section of evangelicals consider immigration a priority, the broader group’s priorities are scattered.
Immigration: Threat or Ministry Opportunity?
The Lifeway Research found differing views among evangelicals regarding immigration. 42% view immigration as an opportunity to introduce immigrants to Jesus, while 42% see it as a threat to law and order. This clear divide shows there is no "one-size-fits-all" perspective.
The Call for Immigration Reform
Interestingly, 80% of evangelicals express the importance for Congress to pass significant immigration legislation. As for the type of policies being supported, 92% support immigration policies that respect the law, 90% desire secure national borders, and 74% are in favor of providing a path to citizenship for immigrants who meet certain qualifications.
Does The Bible Matter in This Discussion?
64% of evangelicals claim to be familiar with what the Bible teaches about immigration. However, only 28% have heard their local church address immigration in ways to encourage them to engage with immigrants in their community. This disparity shows the dire need for churches to openly discuss how biblical principles apply to the issue of immigration.
As church leaders, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge lies in navigating the complex issue of immigration, with various views within our congregations. Conversely, the opportunity lies in educating our people on how to think biblically about this topic, indicating a hunger within the church for a biblically grounded understanding of immigration.
The question now is, will we step into the challenge to address this issue from a sound, biblical, and compassionate perspective?
For more insights on this topic, listen to today's Healthy Church Staff Podcast episode.
