“Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.”
This verse is part of Moses’ address to the Israelites, recounting their journey through the wilderness and emphasizing their relationship with God. It highlights an essential principle of the Mosaic law-loving the stranger.
Context: To understand the verse better, it’s essential to consider its context within the book of Deuteronomy. The book of Deuteronomy primarily consists of Moses’ speeches to the Israelites, reminding them of God’s covenant, laws, and their responsibilities as God’s chosen people.
Love for the stranger: In this verse, Moses instructs the Israelites to love the stranger or foreigner among them. The term “stranger” refers to foreigners or non-Israelites who lived in the land. It is a call to extend love, kindness, and hospitality to those who are different from the Israelites.
Reason for love: The verse provides a reason for loving the stranger-reminding the Israelites of their own experience as strangers in the land of Egypt. It draws upon their historical context, reminding them of their past oppression and slavery in Egypt, and how God delivered them. Therefore, they should empathize with and show compassion towards others who find themselves in similar circumstances.
God’s concern for the stranger: Throughout the Bible, God repeatedly expresses His care and concern for the stranger. In Deuteronomy 10:18, just before the verse in question, it says, “He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment.” This highlights that God Himself loves and provides for the stranger, and He expects His people to do the same.
Application today: While this verse was specifically addressed to the Israelites, the principle of loving the stranger remains relevant today. As Christians, we are called to extend love, compassion, and hospitality to those who are different from us, including foreigners, immigrants, and refugees. Jesus reinforced this principle in the New Testament when He taught about loving our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31).
In conclusion, Deuteronomy 10:19 emphasizes the importance of loving the stranger based on the Israelites’ own experience as strangers in Egypt. It reflects God’s concern for the marginalized and serves as a reminder of our responsibility to show love, kindness, and hospitality to those who are different from us.
