Who are Illegal Aliens?

Question:

MR. ROMERO I listen to your show everyday. Pleaseeee stop say illegal aliens, i think it so degrading. and any way aren't aliens from outer space?

Answer:

I know that some people get offended when they hear the word “alien.” However, it is an accepted academic term.

In fact, the word “alien” is used in the Holy Bible as a descriptive word for a “stranger” or someone from another family or clan. The

Mexican Constitution also uses the word “alien” for non - Mexican citizens.

Bible Dictionary: Alien

A foreigner, or person born in another country, and therefore not entitled to the rights and privileges of the country where he resides. Among the Hebrews there were two classes of aliens. "(1.) Those who were strangers generally, and who owned no landed property. "(2.) Strangers dwelling in another country without being naturalized (Lev. 22:10; Ps. 39:12). "Both of these classes were to enjoy, under certain conditions, "the same rights as other citizens (Lev. 19:33, 34; Deut. 10:19)." They might be naturalized and permitted to enter into the congregation of the Lord by submitting to circumcision and abandoning idolatry (Deut. 23:3-8). "This term is used (Eph. 2:12) to denote persons who have no interest in Christ.