Perspectives on Patriotism: A New Series from byFaith

Patriotism is an area in the PCA where I have observed a range of thought and expression. I’ve never met any church leader who was unpatriotic, but I have encountered differences in how our love of country is expressed as part of our Christian witness and the church’s ministry.

I once visited a PCA church whose property was covered in American flags in honor of Independence Day. I’ve heard sermons on “The Faith of Abraham Lincoln.” I’ve known of congregations who sing “God Bless America” and the national anthem in their worship services. These churches emphasize a close connection between their Christian identity and their national identity.

I’ve also visited PCA churches whose properties have no American flags, inside or out. They don’t reference national holidays in their preaching, prayer, or singing. In these churches, there is a focus on the Christian identity without any acknowledgment of a national identity.

ByFaith is launching a series of articles to consider various perspectives on patriotism from within the PCA. We have invited leaders from across the denomination to help us think through the motivations, expressions, and limitations of patriotism.

How should we think about our national identity in light of our Christian identity? Is there any room for patriotic expressions within the church’s public ministry? How can you love a country when you feel it has wronged you? What are the limits to our patriotic fervor? These are the types of questions this series aims to answer.

Christians are described in Scripture as exiles and strangers (Heb. 11:13). Yet, we are also expected to have a constructive relationship with our national leaders instead of an antagonistic one (Rom. 13:1-17). This series is focused on patriotism, not political policies or presidential candidates. As Christians, we want to reflect on how our love of Christ shapes our love of country.

What do we mean by patriotism? Here’s a common working definition: Patriotism is a love for and commitment to one’s country. Patriotism can be expressed in a range of ways, from simple acts of remembrance (ex: Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veteran’s Day) to more significant acts such as enlisting in the armed forces.

Like anything, patriotism can be dangerous when unregulated by Scripture. It can lead Christians to display an affection and commitment to their own country that equals or overshadows their commitment to and affection for Christ’s kingdom. On the other hand, some Christians place such an emphasis on their identity as exiles and strangers, there seems little room to express honor and gratitude toward their national homeland.

How do we express affection and appreciation for the country where God has placed us while being temporary residents whose lasting citizenship is in God’s kingdom?

Next week, you will hear every day from a different pastor or church leader who has been asked to address the issue from a different angle.

Rev. Rob Pacienza, pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church, offers guidelines for patriotism as it pertains to the pastor and his public ministry.
Dr. Peter Lillback, president of Westminster Theological Seminary, provides a look back on patriotism in American church history.
Rev. Howard Brown, pastor of Kindred Hope Church in Atlanta, reflects on the challenge of loving your country when you feel it has wronged your family.
Dr. Jennifer Patterson, director of the Institute for Theology and Public Life at Reformed Theological Seminary, lays out a vision for a distinctively Christian form of patriotism.
Rev. Chris Hutchinson, pastor of Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, considers the limits of patriotism.