What Deuteronomy 10:18-19 Really Means (And Why It Still Matters Today)

Two t-shirts printed with the Deuteronomy 10:18-19 Bible verse, shown on hangers

Sometimes, certain verses in the Bible don't have to yell to capture your attention – they simply stand there quietly and stop you in your tracks. One such passage is Deuteronomy 10:18-19.

"He administers justice... loves the stranger... therefore love the stranger."

The message to which it bears is this: God protects the weak, He cares for the outsider, and He feeds and clothes the stranger. Then He goes to His own people and says one thing: For I loved the stranger, you must do the same.

He even shares them a reality check. Israel experienced firsthand the feeling of foreigners; they had been slaves in Egypt for years. God’s point was simple: Remember where you came from, and don't treat others the way you were treated.

Given these words are thousands of years old, they sound like this morning's news. See all around you, we are surrounded by people starting over. People migrating to other countries, working in new jobs in different cities, or starting a new school. Some are running from danger, others simply want to create a better life for their children. All but nearly all of them have experienced the feeling of being on the outside looking in.

This verse is basically asking a simple question: What do we do with the stranger? That one who doesn't know the unwritten rules yet, doesn't speak English without an accent, or looks different?

It’s not asking us to take a political stance. It is simply asking for simple human kindness. It's a reminder that all of us at some point, were the new person, the rookie on the job, or the one who didn't know anyone else in the room.

A more discreet way to communicate what's important

That's why a verse like this is a good choice for a t-shirt. No need to have an argument, debate on social media or stand on a soapbox. You just wear it.

You get a quick look at someone's shirt while you're exercising or standing in line at the grocery store. Perhaps it makes them think twice. Perhaps they go home and check the reference at a later time. No pressure, no lecture, simply the message out in the wild.

A clear, meaningful message on a comfortable tee allows for true dialogue without conflict. It allows you to communicate your message from the heart without having to raise your voice.

It's time to discover your fit and style.

This quote is printed on soft grey and classic white tee shirts, and multiple sizes.

We have dozens of other quotes and scripture prints, in a wide range of options at Expressionize. Also, we offer sizes S–5XL so you can select the one that is most suited to you; tight or loose.

Want to read another Scripture? There is a whole collection of scriptures, classic quotes and art prints to choose from.

As well as the content of the shirt, the method of its production also plays a significant role.

We use a printing technique called Direct-to-Garment (DTG). Imagine a high accuracy colour printer—just make it one that prints on fabric! The ink is not simply applied over plastic looking cloth but infuses the fibres of the cloth with the ink itself. The result? A soft print which moves with the shirt, does not crack or peel in wash.

We also work on a Print on Demand basis. We don't make thousands and thousands of shirts in advance then store them in a warehouse, we make your shirt as soon as you place your order.

Dress in the way that is consistent with what you believe.

A t-shirt is a small piece but it can have a big impact—reminding us to be kind, to be just, to welcome people away from home.

If you're feeling like you need a reminder on the importance of being kind to others, pick up a copy of Deuteronomy 10:18-19, or check out our other designs.

Wear your values.

Shop the collection: Old Testament Bible Verse Shirts