Does the Bible have anything to say about the concept of vetting an immigrant? Does it address extreme vetting?
“To vet” means “to appraise, verify, or check for accuracy, authenticity, validity.” We can assume that to add the term “extreme” would mean to do a very thorough job of vetting someone. So, if someone was entering our country and represented themselves as “ABC” then we should be able to verify that they actually are “ABC.” This is the idea of vetting a person whether for political office, a job or as an immigrant. There seems to be nothing inherently wrong about simply asking someone to prove that their statements about themselves are accurate.
Of course, those who oppose “borders” also oppose the act of vetting someone. Vetting for immigrants implies that there is a requirement to enter a country. Progressive socialists are generally opposed to having borders and believe anyone should be able to freely enter regardless of motive – those who seek asylum, those who seek a better life, those who seek welfare, or those who seek to subvert, overthrow or change the political landscape. They therefore reject vetting of anyone who wants entrance into another land.
Let’s Examine Scripture.
I often hear, “What would Jesus do? He would love everyone and let them come in (implying without vetting).” While that sounds really “feel-goody” it just doesn’t jive with the facts of Scripture.
The Lord Jesus said, “I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. (John 10:7-10).
Let’s Apply This Insight to America
I grew up in a time when nobody locked a door. A locked door was for secrets and privacy not for safety. But society changed. There became less respect for property and lives. To best protect our families, we have not only learned to lock our doors but we now install security devices. It testifies of our time that Biblical values have decreased and secular values have risen.
To those who oppose borders and deplore vetting of visitors I say: leave your house and car unlocked at all times and allow “visitors” come in, regardless of motive and intent. Let them eat your food, sleep in your bed, wear your close, use your utilities and watch whatever channels on your cable they want while you pay the bill. Lose your bodyguard and sell your weapons. Simply put, live out your creed. When you have proven that you can trust all who come your way, after years of demonstration, then let’s talk about open borders and vetting.
Until then, I choose to follow the Lord’s example and work through channels that vet our visitors and enable them to enter and enjoy our prosperity.
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