This article is NOT about American political parties and their platforms; it will not suggest how a Christian should vote. The purpose of this article is to encourage Christians to consider, personally and in community, how a citizen of God’s kingdom should be thinking about the election.

The short answer is “not like the world”. The vast majority of those reading this article know they have been called to a different perspective; we have the mind of Christ and are seated with Him in heavenly places. We hope you will consider this as a timely reminder and a tool to help others think like kingdom citizens.

The following includes a number of questions intended to facilitate group discussion. Some answers have been provided, but you and your spheres of influence will likely have your own (and most of those will be correct). Including God in the conversation will facilitate the hearing of faith for everyone involved.

Let’s start with some kingdom perspective. First, all Christians are citizens of two nations or kingdoms: An earthly nation (e.g., the United States of America) and the kingdom of God. Those who are not Christians are only citizens of America. They do not understand the kingdom of God.

1. Christians have a relationship with both nations. As citizens of America we are responsible to be good citizens and, in turn, we receive certain rights and privileges. The relationship is described as a democratic republic.
2. As citizens of the kingdom of God, we are bondservants of the King. We have no rights beyond those given to us by the King, but we do have many incredible privileges. What are some of those? Birthright (1John 3:9, Romans 8:16), kingdom knowledge (Matthew 13:11), perspective (Ephesians 2:4-6), and defense against our spiritual enemies (Ephesians 6:10-20) – just to name a few.
3. Furthermore, as kingdom of God citizens, we have been given certain authority to act on the King’s behalf in the nation of America. What are some of those roles? Royal priesthood, ambassadors, and agents of reconciliation (2Corinthians 5:18-20).
4. Still, we are sojourners (1Peter 2:9-12). This world is not our home.

1. How does God relate to America? What is it to Him? Is America a favored nation? Is it like Egypt or Babylon to Him?
2. How does He relate to the citizens of America? What are they to Him? Does “citizen of America” impress God?
3. What is God to the citizens of America? What do they think of Him? Protector? Enemy or friend? Do they think of Him at all?
4. What is God’s fair response to America? To its citizens?
5. How does God relate to the citizens of His kingdom? How is He identified in Scripture? Creator, Prince of Peace, Comforter, Master, and Loving Father (just to name a few).
6. How does He relate to us as a loving Father (see Hebrews 12:3-11)? He chastens, rebukes, and scourges us.
7. What is God’s reasonable response to His people who are sojourning in America?

Now, let’s look at this on a more personal level.

1. When we become Christians, we become spirit beings in earth suits (2Corinthians 5:1-9). Our spirit man lives in the kingdom of God, in the light of His glory. Our flesh is at enmity with God; it functions, as we allow it, from the kingdom of darkness. Our carnal mind is a deceptive, blame-shifting, and whiny excuse-maker.
2. You know your flesh better than anyone. What will be its response if your party loses? If your party wins? What must you, as a spirit man or woman, guard against? How should kingdom citizens NOT respond?

   It is interesting to note that whichever party wins, most everyone in America – supporters of both parties – will continue to be angry, anxious, and fearful. The world will continue being the world.

3. What did Jesus mean in John 20:21 (As the Father sent me, so I also send you.)? How does this relate to our thoughts about the election and America? For example, how much attention did Jesus give to the Roman government?
4. As kingdom citizens, how should we think and respond to the election? How do we exercise our kingdom perspective? Consider 1Peter 5:6-7, 2Peter 3:11-13.

This election provides great occasion to consider how we should think as kingdom citizens AND to help those in our spheres of influence do the same. The opportunities to encourage and edify will increase as the chaos of the 2020s intensifies. Now is the time to set our minds on things above and exercise our heavenly perspective.

In closing, here is an encouraging word you can share with others, in person and on social media:

There is a lot riding on this election for the nation of America, but let us not become confused and think that there is a lot riding on this election for the kingdom of God. To do so is to make far too much of America and far too little of God’s kingdom.

Please let me know how I can help you make disciples and transform your spheres of influence (e.g., lead a discussion on this topic). In the meantime…

God bless you with courage, wisdom, and perseverance – personally and for your spheres of influence.

Humbly yours and forever His,

Rob