Citizens of Two Worlds

This morning I was able to get in a fitness center workout, before heading to McKee Medical Center for an IV drug therapy treatment this afternoon. Tonight is the last Presidential debate and election day will soon be here. We live in challenging and troubling days and it is reflected in this nation, in this election. One of the greatest challenges for followers of Christ is to function as “citizens of two worlds.” Beginning with today, I am going to share some of my thoughts and reflections related to what the Bible says about our perspective and attitudes in this challenging arena.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ…” Philippians 3:18-20 ESV

Tension, conflict, confusion. Three word that can describe the feelings of Christ followers with the world in which we live. As Paul writes to the Philippians he shares an important perspective. There is and always has been a tension between those who are loyal to Christ and the world in which they live.

There are those who are “enemies of the cross of Christ.” They don’t want to embrace, they are not open to nor are they “tolerant” of those who embrace a life changing faith in Jesus Christ. We need to understand that, but not to be discouraged by that. Paul reminded believers two thousand years ago, “our citizenship is in heaven.” We are spiritual aliens, pilgrims, sojourners, however you want to view our present status.

The contrast between spiritual light and darkness is clear. What Paul says about those who alienate themselves from Christ and His cross and focus on this world, is straight forward, “their destiny is destruction.” He goes on and provides a vivid destruction of their priorities and focus. It is all on “self gratification.” Doing what “feels good.” Doing what pleases them and gives them satisfaction. Paul then closes his observations with an all encompassing statement, “their mind is set on earthly things.”

At times overly zealous Christians have been labeled as those who are, “so heavenly minded, that they are no earthly good.” It is also possible to be, “so earthly minded that you are no heavenly good.” The realm of “heaven” and kingdom living and priorities is as foreign to those of “this world” as “this world” is to those whose hope and focus is on God’s kingdom.

The challenge we face is, “how are we to function as “citizens of heaven” while we live as “citizen’s of this world”? Should we isolate ourselves or infiltrate the culture in a way that honors Christ. The Bible has much to say about “earthly citizenship.” Some of it is seen in the words of Jesus and the apostles, some of it is seen in the lives of biblical characters.

We live in a different time and a different “world” than first century Christians, but the concepts and principles are important for us think through and apply to our lives and present culture.

I challenge you to consider the prophets words to God’s people as they were being taken captive by the evil empire of Babylon, “But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” (Jeremiah 29:7 ESV)

It is important for us to be “salt and light” in the world. We are to be engaged, to speak up when we have the opportunity and to show in our actions our true citizenship.

Prayer for today… Lord, thank you that we a have a true home in heaven. Thank you for the hope that brings to our life as we live as citizens of this world. Help us to be true ambassadors and to represent Your kingdom as we seek the welfare of the city where we live.