Nationalism

30 May, 2019

What is the case for it for Christians?  Are we not part of a new nation, a newpeople, the “people of God”? What have we to do with classic nationalism, carved out by geographical,linguistic, and legacy lines?   Are Christiansdoctrinally committed only to those holding Christian citizenship, submissionto the state as an arm of God benevolent order with no patriotic zeal oraffection?

God made extended families along natural lines as a means ofprocreation and survival.  There is anatural commitment to our descendants and to those functioning under a commongovernment and speaking a common language. Such commitment serves purposes of survival and protection – the generalwelfare.  To be sure,  the stronger bond is the religious one whichbinds people together by “covenant.” It is a bond stronger than blood or language.

Nevertheless, nations, whatever the nature of the bond, areGod’s gift and it is right to give Him thanks for whatever nation in which wehold citizenship.  And for this gift,patriotism and national pride emerge and the proper responses to threats againstthis gift.  But let thanksgiving prevailover pride.  Let allegiance and devotionexceed militant aggression.