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They gave new meaning to the phrase "Get some"
I finally found a good scriptural answer to a very old question of mine. Having done a long tour with the JW- CULT-- 'church of the poison mind' when I got back from 2 years in Vietnam, they bent and tortured my brain for a while before I could finally escape and get things right by REALLY learning the TRUTH of the Bible. And when they 'cut you off' they try to do as much damage to you and your family not only from 'shunning' but also lies, slander and economically, if they can. MANY have commited suicide with all their heaped up abuse and despair from their former "friends." But when you finally learn the real truth of the bible and gain the Holy Spirit-- the past is all 'dust in the wind.' PTL.
When I was suffering from big time PTSD, the JW's told me to 'just forget the war -- that it never happened' -- 'that it was all in my mind!' They also frown upon medication from clinical depression, etc. They forbid their kids in school to salute the flag or say the Pledge, or join any Armed Forces. I am so glad that part [WASTE] of my life is over now-- but I say these words to fore warn others who are trapped or trying to get out of that Christ-dishonoring CULT. If you have any questions, please ask me and I will try to help you all I can-- but you need to send me your REAL NAME AND EMAIL ADDRESS. Most JW's are too cowardly to confront me head on and show themselves, but they stand behind [or under] a rock to ambush me-- hit and run like cowards... LOL.
So here is the Biblical prospective of 'Patriotism.'
Should a Christian be patriotic?
Question: "Should a Christian be patriotic?"
Answer: The answer to this question depends on the meaning of the word “patriotic.” As with many words, there are difference nuances of meaning and different people use the word in different ways. For example, at its simplest meaning being patriotic simply means loving one’s country. As long as that love for country does not supersede one’s love for God, and if it is kept in proper perspective, there is nothing wrong with a Christian being patriotic. However, another definition of patriotic implies that the individual should place the interests of the nation above their personal and group interests. Carried to this extreme, patriotism can become a form of idolatry, particularly if one’s love for his country is greater than his love for God and God’s plan of redeeming people from “every tribe, tongue and nation.”
As far as a Christian’s responsibility towards government, we know from Romans 13:1-7 that we are to be subject to the governing authorities and to honor them, even when they are not honorable because it is ultimately God who has placed them in authority over us. So as Christians we are under obligation to God to be model citizens, subject to the governing authorities over us by obeying laws, paying taxes, etc. However, our responsibilities are first and foremost to be obedient to God. In America, a democratic republic where individual citizens have the ability to change and influence government by voting or by being politically involved when appropriate and in appropriate ways, part of being a good citizen is voting and having whatever positive influence we can on government.
In countries where Christians have no say in the decisions of their leaders, it is more difficult to be patriotic. It is very hard to love oppressive governments. However, as Christians we are still obligated to pray for our leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-4). God will honor our obedience to this command, and in His perfect timing, He will judge leaders who turn away from Him. Should a Christian be patriotic? Within reason, yes. At the same time, a Christian’s ultimate faith, love, and obedience is the be reserved for God alone.
Recommended Resource: The American Patriot's Almanac: Daily Readings on America by William J. Bennett & John T.E. Cribb.
Related Topics:
What are Red-Letter Christians?
What does the Bible say about abortion?
Does God expect Christians to vote?
Is the United States a Christian nation?
Does the Bible support Communism?
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