True Christian Patriotism

Christian patriotism is defined as love for the heavenly country, rather than earthly nations. True Christians are called to remain separate from the state, renouncing earthly citizenship and political involvement in favor of their heavenly citizenship.

Origins of the State:
The state arose from humanity's departure from God. Had humans remained obedient, there would have been no need for a state, as God would have been the sole ruler. The origin of human government is traced to Nimrod, the first to establish a human government and declare himself king.

Separation of Church and State:
Abraham’s call to leave his country serves as an example of the separation between church and state. This principle applies to individual believers and to the church collectively, as the church can never claim an earthly country.

Rejection of God:
When the Israelites demanded a king, they rejected God's theocratic rule, desiring to be "like all the nations." This act of forming a state and uniting church and state was seen as a rejection of God’s sovereignty.

Christ's Example:
Jesus Christ consistently refrained from engaging in political matters, despite the corruption and injustice of his time. His actions exemplify the complete separation of religion and state, which Christians are called to follow.

"Render unto Caesar":
Jesus’ statement "Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" highlights the distinction between the realms of God and the state. By doing so, Jesus denied the state any claim to divinity.

Christian Citizenship:
True Christians hold their citizenship in heaven and must renounce allegiance to earthly rulers, states, or sovereignties. Their loyalty to God's kingdom is absolute and undivided.

The Heavenly Country:
The heavenly country is the true home of Christians, characterized by its beauty, joy, and righteousness. It is the eternal dwelling of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Jesus Christ, and God. Christian patriotism, therefore, is defined as love for this heavenly country.