In this month’s edition of the inLight Adventure Newsletter we take a look at the meaning and importance of worldly elections for those whose hearts and minds belong to the kingdom of God. Please note: This article is NOT about political parties and their platforms; it will not suggest who or what a Christian should vote for. The purpose of this article is to encourage Christians to think like citizens of God’s kingdom when involved in the election processes of this world. We pray you are blessed with the challenge.
Dual Citizenship
All Christians are citizens of two nations or kingdoms. For most readers here, that is the United States of America and the kingdom of God. Those who are not Christians are only citizens of America, and we should not expect them to understand the kingdom of God. Help them receive God’s offer of a second citizenship, and they too will begin to think differently.
Christians have a particular relationship with both nations. As citizens of America, we are responsible to be good citizens; and, in turn, we receive certain rights and privileges. We call this relationship a democratic republic. As kingdom citizens, we are bondservants of a King, and we have no rights beyond those given to us by Him. However, our citizenship also affords us some pretty incredible privileges: 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.
Furthermore, as kingdom citizens, we have been given authority to act on the King’s behalf in the nation of America: Royal priesthood (1Peter 2:9-12), ambassadors of reconciliation (2Corinthians 5:18-20), agents of transformation (Ephesians 2:10), etc. But still, we are sojourners; this world is not our home (1Peter 2:11-12).
How Should We (Group) Think?
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 (1Corinthians 2:16), and we are seated with Him in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6). We hope you will consider this a timely reminder and use it to help others think more like citizens of God’s kingdom.
The following questions facilitate both personal and corporate searching (Psalms 139:23-24). Engaging with Christians who thinks differently about the politics of our day will help us avoid the echo chambers which hold so many captive. Including God in the conversation will facilitate the hearing of faith for everyone involved.
- How does God relate to America? What is it to Him? Is America a favored nation? Or is it more like biblical Egypt or Babylon to Him?
- How does He relate to the citizens of America? What are they to Him? Does “citizen of America” impress God?
- 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?
- Given our recent history as “one nation under God,” what is His fair response to America, the country? To its citizens?
- How does God relate to the citizens of His kingdom? How is He identified to us in Scripture?
- How does He relate to us as a loving Father (Hebrews 12:3-11)?
- Given our recent history as sojourners in America, what is God’s reasonable response to the church that resides here?
Our Personal Responsibility to God and Country
Now, let’s look at this on a more personal level. When we become Christians, we are born again as spirit beings in earth suits (2Corinthians 5:1-9). Our spirit man lives in the kingdom of God, in the light of His glory.
On the other hand, 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. Now, you know your flesh better than anyone, so…
- 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?
- 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?
- Considering 1Peter 5:6-7 and 2Peter 3:11-13: As kingdom citizens, how should we think and respond to the election? How do we exercise our kingdom perspective?
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.
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
#iamjustthepen
Ministry Updates and Prayer Requests
Please turn your prayerful attention to God’s voice and His purpose for you in this season. We are truly in a Kairos moment of spiritual challenge and opportunity. The Storms Have Only Just Begun, and the rate of change we are about to experience will leave many seeking refuge, encouragement, and wisdom. Knowing His voice is of paramount importance, and the good work He entrusts you to walk in will be your greatest kingdom legacy.
We are helping a brother in the Lord with a new project aimed at unity across the church in Douglas County. Please join us and the Lord in prayer (see John 17:20-23) for the unity of God’s people.
We have given permission for the publisher of The Storms Have Only Just Begun to create an AI coaching model based on its content. The Study Guide has been completed, but the video editing continues to drag along. Please continue to pray for a speedy conclusion to this endeavor.
Our publisher has encouraged us to develop and publish A Shepherd’s Guide to the Dangers of Digital Technology. The manuscript has been completed and is ready to go to the publisher, but we have determined to wait on the completion of The Storms… In the meantime, we hope to return our attention to A Christian Response to the Metacrisis. Please pray for God’s direction in the writing and publication of both books.
The Better Life Resource Network has completed its pilot, and we are looking now to take on new resource partners. The Deliverance and Wellness Center will soon be offered to church pastors, as we originally envisioned. Please pray for our wisdom in the selection of participating partners.
Our family and fellowship are well and well blessed, with a few exceptions. Our pastor recently resigned, so we are now seeking the LORD’s will for our future. We appreciate your prayers for our continued spiritual growth and encouragement in this chaotic season. Please also pray healing for our daughter-in-law, Alexis.
Lastly, continue to pray for our sisters and brothers suffering under persecution – as if chained with them, since you yourselves are in the body also (Hebrews 13:3). Persecution has intensified in China, India, and Iran. Hatred toward Christians by Islamist groups in much of Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa continues with little notice by the rest of the world.
Partnering with inLight Consulting
God’s purpose for inLight Consulting is beyond human capability. We are desperately dependent on Him; and would have it no other way. We are grateful for the continued support of those that trust God to use this ministry to further His kingdom. Please pray for our vision and mission.
Share the truths you find here with the leaders in your life; it will make them free.
God bless you with wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him; and may He give you the grace and courage to walk in the work He has prepared for you.
Humbly yours and forever His,
Rob