Written by Daniel Darling, director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
When country star Chris Stapleton sang the national anthem at the Super Bowl in 2023, I got choked up. His near-perfect rendition made me think of my grandfather who fought in the Pacific in World War II. It made me think of George W. Bush on the rubble of Ground Zero after 9/11. It made me think of the men who stormed the beaches on D-Day. When Stapleton sang, I felt my patriotism deeply.
But is patriotism healthy for a Christian? As our nation approaches her 250th birthday next year, many Christians are asking this question. While love of country can go too far—see the book of Jonah—I’m concerned that many in our generation, even many who sit in our pews, don’t love their country at all. This may stem from disillusionment over bad policies and the tumult of recent years, or from a one-sided view of American history. But much of the angst among believers about patriotism stems from a perceived conflict between loyalty to God’s kingdom and loyalty to the temporary place we inhabit.
Must national citizenship and heavenly citizenship always conflict? No. What helps us avoid the clash is rightly ordering our loves. Believers can make Christ their first and highest allegiance without abandoning patriotism completely. This is the topic of my recent article for TGC, in which I give three principles that can help us cultivate a healthy love of country. I pray they’re helpful for you as you prepare to lead your church during America 250.
