It is a sticky, controversial topic in America.  But in addressing the issues, Dave handed out seven page handouts to the listeners.  Excellent stuff.  Again, if your constant source of information on this theme has been “republican fundamentalist” (my choice of expression) talk radio, download this session for listening when it eventually appears on the church website of Grace Baptist Church.

Here are the problems:  “1.  Tensions over illegal immigration and over social and cultural differences can cause conflict within the church and between the church and the society.  2.  Fear over legal ramifications can inhibit Great Commission activity.  3.  Churches and ministries that are not wise can damage their testimony and develop legal problems unnecessarily.”

After targeting the thorny issue, Dave jumped into the Great Commission (Matt. 28:18-20) and then brought in other biblical principles from Deut. 10:17-18, Exod. 22:21, 23:9, Lev. 19:33, and 23:22.  Dave spoke on how God made provision for proselytes.  From the O.T. (Lev. 19:34), we meditated on Luke 10:27-29.

But also, there should be respect for government (Romans 13:1-5; Titus 3:1; I Peter 2:13-14).  “The only exceptions are where compliance with a dictate of the government would require the believer to disobey a clear scriptural duty (Daniel 3:18; Acts 4:19-20; 5:29).  Even in these cases the Christian has an obligation to diligently seek a way to fulfill his obligations both to God and to government, to make a wise appeal, and to maintain a respectful spirit toward God-ordained authority throughout.”

In the end, we briefly explored particular issues like “what about church membership?” “What about ministry leadership?” and “What about legal entanglements?”