But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20
Believers in Jesus live in two worlds with two citizenships. We have, as Paul said, citizenship in heaven but now we have our citizenships in this world. Some even refer to our current status as that of “resident aliens” because our primary citizenship is not of this world.
However, having citizenship in heaven doesn’t preclude us from having responsibilities in this world. How can we live out our heavenly citizenship here?
Pray for leaders: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:1–2).
Submit to government authority: “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established” (Romans 13:1).
Render to Caesar: “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Matthew 22:21).
Live an honorable life: “Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor” (1 Peter 2:17).
We also have the challenge of living like Jesus in our countries of citizenship. This involves the things that represent His heart—care for the poor, help for the weak, and justice for the oppressed.
All of this, however, exists with a significant qualifier. When threatened by the leaders of the religious government of Israel, Peter wisely responded: “We must obey God rather than human beings!” (Acts 5:29). Our first allegiance is always to our Savior and His kingdom.
Bill Crowder, Our Daily Bread writer
Read Also:
Citizens of the Kingdom
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Discover how you can pray for persons in leadership, honor their authority, and respectfully disagree.
Our Daily Bread Ministries in Indonesia is supported by the freewill offering of individuals in Indonesia, who through their gifts enable us to continue to bring the life-changing wisdom of the Bible to many here. We are not funded by any church or organisation.
