This year is America’s 250th birthdayand around the country, there will be celebrations in cities and communities. But what about at church? Many pastors are understandably cautious when it comes to patriotic displays, fearful that a love for America could overtake a love for the Kingdom of God.
This is a healthy concern, but there is a way for pastors to lead their people in this cultural moment that both honors God and expresses gratitude for the place where God has called us to live and serve. How can churches do this well?
First, America’s 250th birthday offers an opportunity to teach Christians what Scripture says about the role of the state and the role of the church. Passages such as Romans 13, 1 Timothy 2, 1 Peter 2, and Jeremiah 29 remind us that government was God’s idea for human flourishing. God has delegated civic authorities to “punish evil and reward good” (Romans 13:3; 1 Peter 2). From the opening pages of Genesis, it was God’s desire for humanity to bear His image by ruling over creation.
Second, pastors can teach what Scripture says about the proper ordering of our loves. First Peter 2:7 says, “Honor everyone. Love the brothers and sisters. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” Too often Christians feel they must choose between a love for their country and a love for God, but Scripture teaches that this is less of a binary choice and more of a hierarchy of affections. If we love God supremely, then every other allegiance (country, family, children) falls underneath that. We’ll love our country best when we love God first.
Click Here to Read More (Originally Published at Equip the Called)
Daniel is the director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the author of several books, including The Dignity Revolution, Agents of Grace, and his forthcoming book, In Defense of Christian Patriotism. Dan is a graduate of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Angela, have four children.
