Some Notes on a Christian View of Patriotism for Memorial Day

On last week's "The Cross & The Jukebox" podcast, Dr. Russell Moore examined the song "God Bless the USA" by Lee Greenwood. The following are a few summary notes I took re: a Christian view of patriotism while listening to this podcast. [The entire podcast can be heard HERE.]

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An expression of patriotism that is illegitimate for Christians is an idolatrous love of country, by which emotions are stirred more by patriotic songs that by hymns honoring God's holiness, and which equates the nation with the church

A proper expression of patriotism is an extension of honoring father and mother, by which we recognize our dependence upon our community and the blessings that have come about through our (national) community.

A Christian view of patriotism is neither Nazism (hyper-nationalistic) or Marxism (which would do away with all national distinctions).

We are to be ambassadors, who both honor the country in which we live and also recognize that our ultimate allegiance is to a higher kingdom.