Christians, Citizenship, and Romans 13

The current state of American civil discourse is anything but. I get why so many people just want to tune out. Really, who wants to see two old men bicker and snipe? What’s a country to do when political debate is replaced with name-calling and propaganda?

As Christians, our ultimate citizenship is in Heaven (Philippians 3:20). This profound truth delineates our worldview, defining how we interpret individual issues and society as a whole. However, this heavenly citizenship does not exempt us from our responsibilities as earthly citizens. Instead, it compels us to engage in our moral and civil duties with greater fervor and integrity. Even though the petty barbs and legal wrangling seems more like a soap opera than serious governance, God’s people should still participate in the process in the way that can bring the most good.

The Dual Allegiance

Romans 13 provides a crucial framework for understanding our relationship with earthly governments. Paul writes, "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God" (Romans 13:1, ESV). This passage highlights a dual allegiance: while our highest loyalty is to God, we are also called to be responsible and contributing members of society. Our faith should inspire us to respect the rule of law and seek for those laws to be righteous. Being a citizen of Heaven should make us the best citizens on Earth.

Being a citizen of Heaven should make us the best citizens on Earth.

Peter echoes this sentiment in 1 Peter 2:13-17, urging believers to submit to every human institution for the Lord’s sake and to live as free people who do good and honor everyone. Similarly, Titus 3:1-2 encourages us to be obedient, ready to do good, and to show humility toward all.

This perspective is particularly relevant in a democratic republic like the United States, where we have the privilege and responsibility to participate in the political process. Voting, civic engagement, and public service are avenues through which we can influence our government and promote policies that reflect biblical values.

Bad Government, Good Church?

It grieves me when Christians think earthly governments don’t matter, or even “hope” for government opposed to the gospel, thinking ensuing persecution will grow the church or even quicken Christ’s return. This is antithetical to the Bible. It’s not only misguided but dangerously neglectful of Christ’s exhortation to be salt and light. Our citizenship in Heaven calls us to pursue engagement, not passivity, in our earthly responsibilities.

Paul addresses a similar misconception in Romans 6:1-2, where he rebukes those who suggest that we should continue sinning so that grace may increase. He emphatically declares, "What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?" To support or condone unrighteous actions in government, believing that they somehow advance God's kingdom, is a gross misinterpretation of scripture. We are called to pursue righteousness in all areas of life, including our civic duties.

The Pursuit of Righteous Government

Our participation in the political process is crucial in promoting leaders and policies that strive for order aligned with God’s design.  While no earthly government will ever be perfect, our engagement can help steer it toward more godly principles.

Paul himself a citizen of Rome made an appeal to Caesar, the worldly government, regarding his freedom: "But Paul said, 'I am standing before Caesar's tribunal, where I ought to be tried. To the Jews I have done no wrong, as you yourself know very well. If then I am a wrongdoer and have committed anything for which I deserve to die, I do not seek to escape death. But if there is nothing to their charges against me, no one can give me up to them. I appeal to Caesar'" (Acts 25:10-11). This act demonstrates that engagement with earthly authorities can be a means of pursuing justice and righteousness.

In Jeremiah 29:7, we are reminded to seek the peace and prosperity of the city where we live, as its welfare will benefit us as well: "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.”  This encourages us to pray for and work toward the betterment of our communities and nation.

Proverbs 14:34 highlights that "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” Our involvement in governance should be guided by the pursuit of righteousness.

When all the Choices are Bad

What are we to do when it seems like every option is not what we would hope for? This is where many believe that punting is the best option. It would be great if in every election there was a genuine Christ-follower with the bona fides and savvy to be an effective leader. Sadly, this is rarely the case.

There is good news in God’s sovereignty in these circumstances. “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will.” (Proverbs 21:1) God raises up brings down leaders, and He is able to direct their actions.

One of the most notable examples of God using an unrighteous leader is Cyrus the Great, king of Persia. Despite being a pagan ruler, Cyrus played a crucial role in the history of Israel. In Isaiah 45:1-4, God refers to Cyrus as His "anointed," chosen to carry out His purposes. Cyrus's decree in 538 B.C. allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple, as detailed in the Book of Ezra. This act was a fulfillment of God's promise to His people and demonstrated that God can use anyone, regardless of their spiritual standing, to achieve His divine plans.

There is good news in God’s sovereignty in these circumstances... God raises up brings down leaders, and He is able to direct their actions.

Donald Trump and His Presidency

Advocacy for Religious Freedom

During his presidency, Donald Trump made significant efforts to advocate for religious freedom, both domestically and internationally. He signed executive orders to protect religious liberty and made it a priority to combat religious persecution abroad. For instance, his administration's commitment to the Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom highlighted global religious persecution and sought to promote the right of individuals to practice their faith freely.

Pro-Life Policies

Trump’s administration was notably pro-life, taking several actions to restrict abortion access and promote pro-life values. He reinstated and expanded the Mexico City Policy, which blocks federal funding for non-governmental organizations that provide abortion counseling or referrals. Additionally, Trump was the first sitting president to attend and speak at the March for Life, a significant gesture that resonated deeply with many Christian pro-life advocates.

Judicial Appointments

Perhaps one of the most lasting impacts of Trump’s presidency was his judicial appointments, particularly to the Supreme Court. Trump appointed three Supreme Court Justices—Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett—who are seen as conservative and likely to uphold Christian values in their rulings. These appointments have the potential to influence American law and society for generations, particularly on issues such as religious freedom, abortion, and same-sex marriage.

Support for Israel

Trump’s strong support for Israel is another point of connection with Biblical themes. He moved the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, recognizing it as the capital of Israel, a move that had significant religious implications for many Christians who see the modern state of Israel as part of biblical prophecy. This decision was celebrated by many evangelical Christians and strengthened Trump’s support among this group.

The Case for Voting for Donald Trump in 2024

Continuation of Pro-Christian Policies

Many Christians view Trump as a defender of Christian values in a political climate that can often seem hostile to traditional religious beliefs. His policies on religious freedom, pro-life issues, and judicial appointments align closely with the priorities of many Christian voters. Supporting Trump in 2024 could ensure the continuation of these policies and the furthering of a political agenda that many Christians believe aligns with their faith.

Imperfect Vessels in God’s Plan

Just as God used imperfect and unrighteous leaders in the Bible to achieve His purposes, many Christians believe that Trump, despite his personal flaws and controversies, can be used by God to advance His plans. The biblical precedent of using leaders like Cyrus serves as a reminder that God’s ways are higher than human understanding. Supporting Trump could be seen as recognizing this principle and trusting in God's sovereignty.

Impact on Future Generations

The impact of Trump's presidency on future generations, particularly through his judicial appointments, is another significant consideration. The conservative shift in the judiciary could lead to decisions that uphold religious freedoms and pro-life values for decades. This long-term influence is a compelling reason for many Christians to support Trump in the next election.

Conclusion

The comparison between how God used unrighteous leaders in the Bible to benefit His people and how Donald Trump’s presidency has been perceived as beneficial to Christianity highlights a recurring theme in God’s interaction with humanity. Just as leaders like Cyrus were used by God despite their flaws and unrighteousness, many Christians see Trump as a modern example of this divine strategy. By recognizing the ways in which Trump’s policies have aligned with Christian values and the potential for continued influence, Christians might find a compelling reason to support him in the 2024 election. Ultimately, this perspective calls for a trust in God’s overarching plan and His ability to use any leader to fulfill His divine purposes.

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