Mike Johnson’s recent attempt to use biblical arguments to justify America’s immigration enforcement shines a light on a dangerous problem: political leaders are misusing scripture to defend actions that run counter to the central Christian moral tradition. That should be a red flag to those of us who cherish living in a country guided by the rule of secular law.
The quote “When fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross” seems tailor-made for House Speaker Mike Johnson. Yesterday, he tried to “out-bible” Pope Leo by using his favorite little black book to justify the GOP’s cruel treatment of immigrants, saying, “Borders are biblical.”
Put aside the troublesome issue of the person third in line for the presidency using the Bible as justification for law; any credible theologian knows Johnson’s biblical argument for strict border enforcement is selective, incomplete, and doesn’t correspond to the broader Christian tradition.
When Pope Leo cites Matthew 25:35 (“I was a stranger and you welcomed me”), he highlights a moral duty toward immigrants, widely affirmed by Christian theologians: Hospitality to strangers is central in the Bible.
The Old Testament repeatedly commands care for foreigners (e.g., Deut 10:19).
Jesus’ teachings prioritize mercy over legalism.
Johnson uses scripture to highlight order and sovereignty, but pays less attention to major biblical themes such as hospitality, compassion, and the dignity of migrants. Additionally, this approach appears not to fully acknowledge Christian ethics, suggesting that governments also have moral obligations, as prophets in the Bible often addressed nations regarding their treatment of foreigners.
Again, putting aside the fact that we live in a society that is ruled by secular law, the Bible’s recognition of borders and civil authority does not override its commands to welcome and care for migrants.
Pope Leo is not a U.S. official—he is the spiritual and moral leader of Catholics worldwide. His call to “welcome the stranger” offers guidance for leaders in line with Christian tradition.
As an American citizen and atheist, all this bible thumping is infuriating. When officials use bible verses to justify policies, we cross the Rubicon. America is a constitutional republic, not a theocracy. Mike Johnson and Donald Trump are elected officials who swore to uphold the Constitution, not a religion.
Here’s a suggestion: Treat everyone with respect and dignity and give all people, including the undocumented, the due process guaranteed them by the constitution.
What Would Jesus Do? (Music by Suno, Lyrics by Me).
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