Christian Nationalism?

Clay Smith JFBC

Christian Nationalism?
Romans 13:1-7

Jesus: render to Caesar what is Caesar's…everything is under God's authority. He reconciles everything back to Himself, even government.

Christian nationalism can mean several different things. A sovereign nation can be looked upon by God as a good thing. A citizen can be glorified by God.

Clay prayed for clarity in our understanding God's word regarding our relationship to government.

Three reasons…
1. Government reveals a higher authority. Paul does not get specific about what type of government is best. He says government reveals God's authority v 1 …be subject to… Eph 5 we are to be in subjection to governing authority. God designed the world to function in a certain way, built on labor family church nation.

John 19:9-11 God gives authority to government.

2. v 2-4 Government is a ministry of God. A parent wants to teach a fear and healthy respect for authority, to be a good citizen.

When government is functioning properly, it is doing the work of God. Speed signs protect life. Pray about playing a role in government. Doesn't mean you have to be obsessed with government, but don't have a pious indifference. When Christians exit, non Christians fill in.

 Q: Why do theives never target the homes of politicians?

 A: Professional courtesy.

3. v 4-5 Government is a means of God's wrath. God gives this role to the government, to punish sin. God gives nations the right to bear the sword to avenge injustice (armies, and capital punishment). Governments don't always get it right.

Interesting that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce feel the need to take the next step to complete their relationship by getting married.

v 6-7 Two Obligations we have as believers… 

1. v 6 Pay taxes. Not to say what an appropriate amount of tax should be.
20% evade taxes.

2. v Give honor to those in office, whether you like them or not. Have a healthy deference 1 Timothy 2:1-2 pray for them. It's hard to hate someone that you are regularly praying for them.

But what about Herod Hitler etc…

One important caution: if ever forced to choose: obey God. If man's law conflicts with God's law, follow God's law. Daniel. Darius was worried about Daniel because Darius like Daniel.

As Christians, we are the away team, the visitors.

Clay is thankful the Baptists fought for religious liberty during the American Revolution. Issac Bakkus led Jefferson to write the first amendment. Freedom for religion, not from religion.

27 in Sunday School

Regioneers Study Bible is what Dan uses.