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Dr. McMickle continues helping modern preachers by forcing us to ask ourselves the question: “Am I a patriot or a prophet?” A preacher cannot be both. A patriot is one who equates the policies of a political party with the voice of God. In addition, the “patriot” thinks that God’s love for America surpasses the Almighty’s love for other nations.
Is America’s Will God’s Will?
This kind of mindset often reduces to the idea that what is good for America is God’s will. You might hear such a “patriot” saying that God wants you to vote for McCain or even for Obama. Patriots often find themselves fighting for a political policy and losing track of God’s perspective. When we look in the Bible we find prophets standing up for God’s will even when it is at odds with the established political order. Ahab called Elijah a “troubler of Israel.” Nathan Confronted David for his adultery and murder. (2 Samuel 12:7) In addition, Samuel decided to be a prophet rather than a patriot when he confronted Saul. (1 Samuel 15:11) Let us remember that John the Baptist stood up against Herod which reminds us that sometimes being a prophet will get your head placed on a plate. (Matthew 14:11)
Let’s be Prophets
No, God has not called us to be beholden to political parties. We are called to be prophets. Patrick Henry is not our model as a preacher; Nathan is!! George Washington is not who we have been called to emulate; Elijah is!! Let us become the prophets that God has called us to be even if the established order does not like it.
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Excellent review! I thought this was a very thought provoking line,
” In addition, the “patriot” thinks that God’s love for America surpasses the Almighty’s love for other nations.”
The biggest argument against American exceptionalism is that it is not biblical! I have known some Christians whose patriotism bordered on or even was idolatry. They are nationalists first of all and don’t even realize it. But this is a very subtle notion obscures our view of the uniquely beautiful kingdom of God. I think it is a bigger problem in the church than a lot of people realize.