Two religious journals I received are THE WORD AND WAY published by Missouri Baptists and THE BAPTIST STANDARD which is the official journal of the General Baptist Convention of Texas. Both recently featured articles on patriotism and religion concurrent with Independence Day. The question often comes--- is it appropriate to use July 4 as a patriotic experience in worship?
At First Baptist we place little flags out all across the campus and our staff pokes fun at me. For one thing, it is a lot of work to get them all in the ground -- especially if there are few late June or early July rains. And it is often hot. I have taken my turn in recent years in both placing the flags in the ground and pulling them out of the ground. We have often had special speakers on or about July 4 while allowing/alternating representatives from both political parties. This year our son-in-law, Chuck Paquin, spoke while attired in an impressive naval uniform.
Many of us baby boomers attended Vacation Bible School in which we gave our pledges of allegiance to the United States flag, the Christian flag, and the Bible. Somehow I never really separated the fact that one could be loyal and appreciative of one's country and yet be a believer/follower of Christ. And yet I have realized there are dangers in patriotism. The slogans from the past, "Love it or Leave it!" probably would not sit well with the Apostle Paul. I suspect he would say something like, "Love it or Change it" if something is not right.
A part of our heritage as Baptists is the separation of church and state, or maybe better put, "a free church in a free society." Baptists along with other sects were instrumental in getting the first amendement in the constitution which guaranteed religious liberty. I for one have always felt it is wrong for churches to beg the state to pay them for doing what God provides them the resources to do. It is certainly appropriate for churches to be involved in faith-based initiatives. But it is probably better to do it from the support of Christians rather thn from public tax monies.
So how does one deal with the tension between patriotism and piety? Those who emphasize American exceptionalism should read the Bible about how God loves all people, all cultures, all nationalities, and all people groups. There is something beautiful that swells within the breast about love for one's country. But the Christian's allegiance is to God first.
Consider the TWO THIRTEENS. Romans 13 speaks from the Apostle's heart about how every person should be subject to the governing authorities. There is certainly a place for being good citizens and loving our country. Revelation 13 pictures the Roman Government as an evil beast that is persecuting Christians and will ultimately face God's judgment. No nation or government escapes accountability from God and is not special to God. Christians of all nationalities, not Jews and not U.S. citizens, are God's people.
So what about the Star Spangled Banner in church? Once in a while maybe on July 4 -- as long as it is placed in the proper context of the Gospel.
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