A Christian View of Earthly Citizenship
Paul famously wrote that, for the Christian, “our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). Due to that statement, some Christians struggle with days like today, where our nation celebrates a national holiday. May Christians participate in these patriotic acts?
The answer is found in the concept of balance.
First of all, I would suggest that Christians need to keep their priorities in check. In other words, it is possible for a nation–or, to word it another way, civic pride–to become an idol. If I am more proud to be an American (or a citizen of any nation on earth) than I am of being a Christian, then I have a serious problem. Idols do not have to be carved images. Anything that removes God from the place of primacy in my life becomes an idol to me, and that could be a nation or a governmental system or anything else connected with being an earthly citizen.
However, if I know that my “long home” is in heaven, and if my heart longs to go there, then it is possible for me to still enjoy certain blessings of living in a certain country. I can still be grateful for the blessings that God has given to a nation. And, frankly, I can still learn from the mistakes a nation has made throughout her history. I can be proud to be an American, so long as that pride does not overshadow my gratitude for being a Christian.
The New Testament gives a good number of reminders about the simple fact that we are parts of earthly systems, including nations and governments. The end of Romans 12 and the beginning of Romans 13 are probably the clearest reminders of that and Peter also gave us the command to “honor the king” (1 Peter 2:17). Today, we might say that we need to “honor the government” or “respect the office of President,” and the teaching would apply well. If I am not looking at myself as an earthly citizen on some level, then it would be virtually impossible to follow that command.
So, on July 4, it is acceptable for Christians who live in America to be grateful for this nation. Take the time to celebrate and to learn. Shoot a few fireworks, or grill a hamburger or two. Enjoy the blessings of America being your temporary residence.
But always remember that, no matter what nation you live in here, “this world is not [your] home.”
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AUTHOR: Adam Faughn
