Immigration, Citizenship, and Geneva

In this episode, we explore the biblical difference between immigration and citizenship, showing how Scripture called Israel to treat sojourners with justice and compassion while reserving covenant membership for those who worshiped Yahweh. From the Hebrews’ sojourning in Egypt to Calvin’s Geneva welcoming refugees, and America’s 19th-century growth through immigration, history illustrates that nations can thrive without confusing residency with citizenship. We argue the magistrate’s role is not to regulate immigration but to uphold justice equally for native and sojourner alike.