The Christian Patriot

“Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.” – Romans 10:1 (NKJV)

What is your view of patriotism? Do you consider yourself a patriot? Do you pray for your country?

No one should be a greater patriot, for his or her nation of residence, than the Biblical Entrepreneur. One of the objectives in business should be to bring transformation to the community and the nation. The Biblical Entrepreneur is the engine of God’s economy; he is the provider of goods and services, job creator, taxpayer, tither, philanthropist and shaper of values. The Biblical Entrepreneur is a patriot. The challenge with patriotism is that some, out of lack of understanding or due to the historical problems of their nation, reject the notion of being a patriot. Others, out of regard for the great history of their nation of residence, put their love for the nation above their love for the kingdom. In some cases, there is just a complete misunderstanding of how to be a patriot for one’s country of birth or residence without compromising allegiance to the kingdom.

A patriot is one who loves, supports and defends their nation. A Christian patriot is a citizen of heaven who is committed to bringing the kingdom of God to earth, beginning with the country where they reside, out of sincere love for that country and their commitment to the kingdom mandate.

The apostle Paul was a Christian patriot; he recognized that his citizenship was not of this world, yet his commitment to bring the kingdom of God to Israel and the gentiles was unparalleled. His love for the nations was out of his response to the mandate he received (from his Commander in Chief) and his sincere love for those nations. He never compromised kingdom values in his effort to demonstrate his love and support for Israel. He recognized that the best way to show love to Israel was to show Israel the way of the kingdom. Though he was proud of Israel’s achievements, he recognized its limitations and errors. Though he recognized Israel’s limitations and errors, he still celebrated its achievements and God’s favor upon the nation.

Unfortunately, some Christians lack the proper understanding of a balanced view of patriotism. As a result, they either put their love for their country above their commitment to the kingdom or think their commitment to the kingdom demands that they reject their country. Fortunately, it is not an either-or proposition since Christian patriots are called to demonstrate their commitment to the Kingdom by their love for the country where they reside.

How do you exemplify Christian patriotism?

1. Develop a kingdom worldview – Matthew 6:33
2. Understand the kingdom mandate – Matthew 28:18-20
3. Pray for the country including its leaders – Romans 10:1, Jeremiah 29:7
4. Celebrate the achievements of the country – Acts 13:16-32, Romans 10:2
5. Confront the unrighteousness of the country – Romans 10:3
6. Enjoy the blessings and privileges of the country – Jeremiah 29:4-7
7. When given the opportunity, share the good news – Romans 10:9-11

Christian patriotism is not easy, but it is necessary. It is essential if we are to achieve the mandate of Christ in every nation. For those of us who reside in a nation where there is a historical commitment to Judeo-Christian principles, we must remember never to make the mistake that the Jews made in the time of Jesus. They valued their traditions and achievements more than the God who gave them the traditions and achievements. For those who reside in a nation where there has been historical injustice, we must remember not to be so angered by the injustice that we forget how God has worked throughout the history of that country. Also, remember that as Christian patriots, we are called to be grateful while demonstrating the love of Christ.

Where is your country of residence? Are you a Christian Patriot where you reside? Pray that God may show you ways to demonstrate His love for that nation, without compromising kingdom principles, through your business.