James K. Hoffmeier

This book is mostly an explanation on what being an "alien" meant in the days of the Bible; the differences between being a legal/resident alien and being a "foreigner", or illegal immigrant, are discussed.

I wrongly assumed it would focus on applying those Biblical principles to the current immigration "crisis", as alluded to in the title. It did certainly touch on this, and the final chapter sums it all up and applies it to our current situation, but that wasn't the bulk of the book.

The text was somewhat repetitive, and unfortunately, it was rather dry reading (think history textbook). That said, I agreed with most of Hoffmeier's positions, and do think it could be helpful for those wanting to know what the Bible says about immigration. As a supplemental text to a more thorough history book, or especially the Bible, it would add lots of insight.

A quote that pretty well sums up the author's position:

"The Bible clearly distinguishes between the status of a legal alien (Hebrew 'ger') and a foreigner (Hebrew 'nekhar' and 'zar'), and one consequence of this is that there really is a difference between the legal standing of a present-day documented alien and an illegal immigrant. Therefore it is legally and morally acceptable for a government to deal with those in the country illegally according to the nation's provisions. The Christian insists, however, that they be dealt with in a humane manner. Expatriation (as Abraham experienced) in itself is not inhumane, but it must not be done in a heartless manner." (p.157)… (mere)

How have the societies and events of the past affected the shape of the world as we know it today? How can we use archaeological data to help us understand the peoples and culture of the Ancient Near East? Can archaeological studies help us to understand the Bible, and if so, how? These are just some of the questions discussed in this fascinating journey around the archaeological remains of the Ancient Near East. James K. Hoffmeier provides the reader with a review of Bible history and examines the role of archaeology in understanding the Biblical text. Beginning with Genesis, this intriguing survey follows the Bible narrative right through to the early churches of Revelation. The book is divided into three sections—two of which cover the Old Testament and one to the New Testament—and is interspersed with stories from the author's own experience as an archaeologist, which bring the thrill of archaeological discovery vividly to life. Beautifully illustrated with photographs, charts, maps, diagrams, and illustrations of sites, this striking overview is for anyone interested in learning  more about the societies and events of the Ancient Near East and how they affect our understanding of the Bible.… (mere)

A much clearer and even-handed handling of the biblical text as it relates to issues of immigration than the last book I read. Hoffmeier relates that an alien in Israel (gur) was one who was very similar to a legal immigrant in today's America, not an illegal one. The one hiccup came at the end, when Hoffmeier used the word "should" in relating how to apply OT provisions concerning legal aliens instead of "could." Granted, for a government or individuals to claim biblical standing for their decisions, they "should" follow biblical examples. Hoffmeier takes great exception with individuals/churches who claim "God's love" for people, but then fail to apply clear mandates from Scripture for their actions. Well worth reading for anyone who is wrestling with the issues of immigration from a biblical perspective.… (mere)

A much clearer and even-handed handling of the biblical text as it relates to issues of immigration than the last book I read. Hoffmeier relates that an alien in Israel (gur) was one who was very similar to a legal immigrant in today's America, not an illegal one. The one hiccup came at the end, when Hoffmeier used the word "should" in relating how to apply OT provisions concerning legal aliens instead of "could." Granted, for a government or individuals to claim biblical standing for their decisions, they "should" follow biblical examples. Hoffmeier takes great exception with individuals/churches who claim "God's love" for people, but then fail to apply clear mandates from Scripture for their actions. Well worth reading for anyone who is wrestling with the issues of immigration from a biblical perspective.… (mere)