Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed three bills into law aimed at deterring illegal immigration at the Texas-Mexico border. Senate Bill 3 allocates $1.54 billion for border barrier construction and allows spending on state troopers for patrols near a housing development. Senate Bill 4 establishes a state crime for illegal border crossing, likely leading to a legal showdown with the federal government. Another Senate Bill 4 increases the minimum sentence for smuggling immigrants or operating stash houses. Critics argue that making illegal border crossing a state crime is unconstitutional as immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility. Texas has bussed nearly 83,000 migrants to cities around the country, including flying 120 individuals to Chicago this past week. 

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The Remnant's Response

We have written extensively on the immigration issue before noting that God’s word encourages discernment in welcoming others, not indiscriminate amnesty or irresponsibly open borders (Exodus 22:21 , Exodus 23:9, Deuteronomy 10:19 , Leviticus 19:33-34). 

Meanwhile, Texas’s actions exemplify what others should do when they forsake their God-given responsibility (Ezekiel 22:30 ). When leaders do not faithfully execute their jobs, others are forced out of their “tranquil and quiet lives” (1 Timothy 2:2) to take action (Ephesians 5:11 ). The Lord is appalled when foolishness and evil overtake a land, and no one acts (Isaiah 59:15-16). 

We encourage you to re-read the biblical principles shared here, which not only inform our understanding of law and borders but also remind us of our responsibility to love our brothers. 

Please also reread our thoughts on Trump’s recent immigration comments.