I'm fascinated at how progressive Catholics see egalitarian U.S. immigration law as "hateful bigotry."  Particularly when the Pope says every nation has a right to control its borders.

But as for the NT players you mention, they are the exception that proves the rule.   That is, these were people from factions quite *against* Jesus,  and moreover,  factions that Jesus made plain he was against.   Jesus' acceptance of these individuals was directly tied to their acceptance of his gospel.

By the same token, progressives ought to accept the gospel of the U.S.  -- respect for our citizenship laws, which include respect for our border, and for protecting the citizens of this country from aliens who have vowed to harm us.