Duty is Ours, Results are God’s

Christians are a curious sort. They don’t easily fit into anyone’s mold. Not for nothing are they called “peculiar.” Sometimes they even seem to contradict themselves. One Sunday they sing: “This is my Father’s World,” and the next they may recite “This World is not my Home.” Well, which one is it? It can’t be both—or can it?

Theologian Abraham Kuyper states:

“There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry, Mine!”

Abraham Kuyper

The Old Testament prophet Jeremiah counseled his people: “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.” Clearly, Christians know who created the world and put them in a particular place—even if it is exile as in Jeremiah’s time. There too, they are to seek the welfare of all. They recognize, the One who so loved the world that he gave his only son to bring forgiveness of sin, welfare and flourishing to all, is setting the example for them. Like their Savior, they accept their calling as servants of all. 

Our civic duties (and privileges) as citizens of a particular nation are one part of our calling which must be balanced with the words of the One whom we follow. Jesus said: “My kingdom is not of this world,” meaning it is of another kind, not one put in place by military power or elections.Other New Testament authors say: “But our citizenship is in heaven…” and “For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.”

In that sense Christians recognize they are “dual” citizens. They realize this world is a perfectly good and safe place. It is given to us by our Creator to live and prosper in. Ultimately though, they are citizens of the Kingdom of God. And the values of the that Kingdom are to guide their character and duties in this earthly one.

In a little over a week here in the United States, we may know if the nation that we call home will be served by the current or a new administration. While we take our responsibility to elect our leaders seriously, we do so with the certainty, that none of them can save us or our nation. There is only One who can do that. (Acts 4:12)

No matter whether we are elated or disappointed about the outcome, as followers of the One who came to serve and not to be served, we carry on, proclaiming salvation and seeking the welfare and flourishing of all.