Those called to be disciples of Christ have the unique and often challenging role of holding citizenship in two kingdoms at the same time: the Kingdom of God (Phil. 3:20), and the controlling government on Earth (Rom. 13:1-7). Although we are commanded to pay taxes and give honor to the latter, our solemn worship belongs only to our Creator.

While we remain as “strangers” and “aliens” in this earthly realm, we are given biblical mandates on both what to avoid and what to achieve as sojourners, as well as what type of people we ought to be. Honesty, integrity, and social concern define a biblical Christian. Blessed to live in a democratic republic, we have a unique opportunity to demonstrate the true hope of the world, as well as the meaning of human existence and the purpose of individuals.

The First Amendment of the Constitution guarantees the freedom of religious expression. While we do not hope for or try to establish a government that sponsors our faith, we do seek one that continues to protect the freedoms that were recognized by our forefathers as given by God. Noting that the framers were concerned that the state might impose penalties for religious opinions, “The state owes every church protection and full freedom in the pursuit of its spiritual ends.”*

*Southern Baptist Convention and Committee on Baptist Faith and Message, The Baptist Faith & Message: A Statement Adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention June 14, 2000. (Nashville, Tenn.: LifeWay Christian Resources, 2000), 2