Written by: Michael Swain
Article source: JOY! Magazine
We have the privilege of living in a democratic society where we enjoy all kinds of rights and freedoms. But have you ever thought about where these rights and privileges come from? Our civilisation, with all its blessings and benefits, is primarily built upon biblical norms and values. The family unit, respect for human dignity, and the right to share our faith freely and raise our children according to our own beliefs and values, have resulted in the most free, successful, and prosperous societies the world has ever seen.
Values are under attack
Many of these “norms” are now under serious attack. Today, many so-called “Western nations” that were once staunch defenders of faith and freedom have dramatically shifted off these foundations. In the UK, street preachers and even people praying silently in public have been arrested. In Finland, a member of Parliament who tweeted scriptures criticising her Lutheran church for their support of “pride week” is on trial for “hate speech”. In the USA, over 240 Catholic churches have been the target of arson and vandalism. Radical, liberal sexual ideology is being taught to children in our schools.
Our role as Christians
Many Christians do not properly appreciate the importance of the rights we have been given. They fail to engage in the vital social and civil issues of our day. However, the Great Commission is a command to go and “make disciples of all the nations” (Matt 28:19), which has both a spiritual and a civil application. Too many are so focused on the spiritual dimensions of their faith that they have been effectively neutralised in their role as biblical citizens. They forget that although they are not “of the world”, they are still “in” the world and have a vital role to play as “salt and light” in the formation and preservation of our society.
Stand up, warriors!
The battle throughout all human history is about who will rule over mankind. It is the battle of two kingdoms, the dominion of darkness or the Kingdom of the Son. The agents that God uses to accomplish this transformation are biblical citizens. They are the men and women who trust, follow, and obey Him, living out their lives empowered by His Holy Spirit in whatever area of life, role, and sphere of influence that God may have uniquely given them.
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Date published: 03/09/2023
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only. Artwork from pixabay.com
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