The first point in regards to citizenship is work ethic. Christians should develop a work ethic that is unrivaled and gives no place for reproach. Both of Paul's letters to the Thessalonians speak out against idleness, exhorting believers to work hard for the sake of the Gospel (1 Thess. 2:9; 2 Thess. 3:6-18). The rigor with which we work will prevent anyone from being able to revile God because of our idleness. Therefore, we should work hard and diligent as unto the Lord (Col. 3:23-24).
Secondly, and this is key, believers' political leanings and activity is to be dominated by a vibrant and intentional prayer life, focused on interceding on behalf of leaders and submitting to their God-given authority (Rom 13:1-7; 1 Tim. 2:1-2; 1 Pet. 2:13). This can seem radical in not downright provocative, considering that the past several decades of political posturing has associated Christianity with right-wing political proclivities. God is not a republican just as much as He is not a democrat.
This assertion does not mean that Christians should not be involved in politics, rather, our political leanings should not ever hinder our real purpose, i.e. living out and preaching the Gospel of Christ Jesus. It wasn't for politics that Jesus' came. We should take great comfort in the fact that the value of our faith is not and will never be measured by our adherence to political platforms or agendas. Instead, as always, our faith is measured by our devotion in repentance and sincerity to the Lord Jesus. Always remember that our faith influences our politics, never the other way around. Let us then take heed to focus and fix upon Christ to guide us in every part of our lives!
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