Because I am convinced by Scripture that allegiance to a man or a nation or anything but Christ is idolatry. Nationalism, or patriotism, especially in America, has become a stumblingblock to the gospel and has misrepresented America as some righteous conduit for God.
I am of Denmark; I am of Kenya; I am of America...
Patriotism divides believers. I have no allegiance but to Christ, and my American citizenship is a result of providence, but it holds nothing for me. The American evangelical community continues to hold divided loyalties. One cannot serve two masters.
I just don't see it as either/or. Has patriotism become an idol to many? Absolutely. But is it necessarily a subtle form of paganism? I don't think so. It's a matter of priority.
Anyway, I'd like to hear the argument from Scripture you alluded to if you have time.
Obey the government? Yes. (As long as they do not conflict with Scripture)
Love the government? Never.
Allegiance to the government? Never.
Illustration:
A believer in country X goes to war for his country against country Y. A believer in country Y goes to war for his country.
Believer X kills believer Y. From the New Testament, how can we conclude that is God's will? America was formed when men killed other men other unfair taxes. If some followed that recipe there would be violence today.
It all hinges on how we view the invisible kingdom of God. Is it of this world or completely seperate.
Wow. Why did you choose the word "IS" rather than "CAN BE" or something like that?
ReplyDeleteBecause I am convinced by Scripture that allegiance to a man or a nation or anything but Christ is idolatry. Nationalism, or patriotism, especially in America, has become a stumblingblock to the gospel and has misrepresented America as some righteous conduit for God.
ReplyDeleteI am of Denmark; I am of Kenya; I am of America...
ReplyDeletePatriotism divides believers. I have no allegiance but to Christ, and my American citizenship is a result of providence, but it holds nothing for me. The American evangelical community continues to hold divided loyalties. One cannot serve two masters.
Obey the government - yes. Love a nation - no.
To me it's like saying:
ReplyDeleteObey God- yes; love my wife- no.
I just don't see it as either/or. Has patriotism become an idol to many? Absolutely. But is it necessarily a subtle form of paganism? I don't think so. It's a matter of priority.
Anyway, I'd like to hear the argument from Scripture you alluded to if you have time.
Thanks!
Obey the government? Yes. (As long as they do not conflict with Scripture)
ReplyDeleteLove the government? Never.
Allegiance to the government? Never.
Illustration:
A believer in country X goes to war for his country against country Y. A believer in country Y goes to war for his country.
Believer X kills believer Y. From the New Testament, how can we conclude that is God's will? America was formed when men killed other men other unfair taxes. If some followed that recipe there would be violence today.
It all hinges on how we view the invisible kingdom of God. Is it of this world or completely seperate.
I disagree. I don't think it is subtle.
ReplyDelete