Being a Christian Citizen

I'm exceedingly proud to be an American.

We’re far from perfect, our past and present show that, but it’s still the nation I’m from, and I want the best for it.

But the United States is not my God.

Like all children in the American public school system, I was made to recite the Pledge of Allegiance roughly five days a week over thirteen years (true story). Well, sorry public school system, my primary allegiance is not to a nation, flag, or government.

Like all followers of Jesus, my allegiance is to the Kingdom of Heaven and the One who rules it.

But that doesn’t mean I, or any other Christian, can’t embrace my national identity or appreciate my country.

Pilgrim-Citizens

As followers of Jesus, we are pilgrims, living on this side of eternity for a limited amount of time.

One of the best things we can do with that limited time is share the present reality of the Kingdom of Heaven through how we live in the countries that we currently, albeit temporarily, call home.

Treat the nation well, respect its laws, contribute to its well-being, so long as these things don’t contradict the Gospel, go for it!

And, I believe, that extends to the realm of politics, too.

Though we aren’t called to nationalism, I don’t think it’s wrong for Christians to get involved in the political process. 

The Gospel was never meant to be legislated, but that doesn’t mean a politician with a Christian worldview can’t permit that worldview to inform their work.

So long as the example and teachings of Jesus remain our highest value, I see nothing wrong with appreciating the nations we live in. 

The issue isn’t patriotism or activism, it’s the idolatry that motivates movements like nationalism. 

Every Tribe, Every Tongue

This poignant image from the book of Revelation shows us something beautiful.

Here we see the great diversity of our species, gathered together in worship of Heaven’s King.

And there they are, from every nation.

Americans, Iranians, Russians, Ukrainians, Palestinians, Israelis, Kenyans, Panamanians, Italians, Laotians… I could go on.

Here they all are, embracing their different cultures for the same purpose - the worship of God.

God blesses us with a national identity and culture; this is true, but this still pales in comparison to the even greater blessing He bestows upon His followers…

…citizenship in the greatest Kingdom there ever was.

Rome fell, the United States will, too, but the Kingdom of God is still there, and the only place it’s going is to Earth that moment when Jesus returns. 

By the grace of God, may we live prepared and ready for that wonderful day.

For now, be blessed.

Jon,

Theophilus Newsletter