A Kingdom Not of This World: A Biblical and Baptist Response to Christian Nationalism
“My kingdom is not of this world.” — John 18:36
In Sunday’s message, Pastor Richard Jackson addressed one of the most talked-about and often misunderstood topics in the church today: Christian Nationalism.
Many believers are asking what it is and how the church should respond. Pastor Richard explained that Christian Nationalism intertwines Christianity with political ideologies — particularly those that equate spiritual faith with national identity. While it may arise from valid concerns about moral values and social change, it often drifts toward fear, exclusion, and power, rather than the humility and compassion that mark the way of Christ.
Understanding the Kingdom of God
Pastor Richard reminded us that the Kingdom of God transcends every earthly nation.
Jesus declared, “My kingdom is not of this world.” (John 18:36). God’s kingdom is not found in political power or national borders, but wherever His will is done.
“Our citizenship,” Paul writes in Philippians 3:20, “is in heaven.”
Believers are called to live as citizens of that higher kingdom — loving people of every nation, tribe, and language (Revelation 7:9), and working for peace, justice, and mercy across all boundaries.
Called to Be Salt and Light
The church’s mission, Pastor Richard emphasized, is not to rule but to serve — to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13–16).
We influence culture through compassion, humility, and integrity, not through domination or fear.
True faith does not rely on coercion or political control. Instead, it transforms hearts and communities through Christ-like love.
Advocates for Justice and Mercy
Throughout Scripture, God shows His concern for the weak and the vulnerable. There are more than 2,000 verses about His care for the poor, the widow, the orphan, and the stranger.
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good: to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)
The church is called to stand for justice, mercy, and dignity — not oppression or exclusion — and to ensure that our public witness reflects God’s compassion.
Separation of Church and State
As Baptists, one of our historical contributions to the Christian faith is the defense of religious liberty and the separation of church and state.
The church must never control the state, and the state must never control the church.
This freedom allows us to worship God sincerely and to influence society through love rather than through power.
Guarding Against Idolatry
When faith becomes too closely tied to politics, it risks turning into idolatry — worshiping power rather than God.
Pastor Richard reminded us that we must obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29) and guard our hearts against allowing earthly agendas to overshadow our heavenly mission.
Living as Dual Citizens
We are citizens of our country — and we are citizens of heaven.
As Jesus taught, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” (Matthew 22:21).
We are called to be good citizens, to pray for our leaders, and to engage with humility — but our ultimate allegiance is to Jesus Christ and His kingdom.
Three Takeaways
As Pastor Richard concluded:
Prioritize the Gospel and God’s Kingdom – Above every political agenda.
Engage with Humility – As servants, not conquerors.
Extend Grace and Mercy – To all people, not just those who agree with us.
“Our ultimate loyalty is not to a country, but to Jesus Christ. Our priority is not a political agenda, but the Kingdom of God.”
Watch the full sermon here.