“The Great American Think-Off”

“The Great American Think-Off” It is called “The Great American Think-Off". And as the title suggests, the competition is not a physical one but rather a contest involving just the intellect. The idea behind the event is to give everyday ordinary people the opportunity to debate some of the extraordinary issues of the day.

This year’s gold medal winner was Craig Allen of West Lynn, Oregon. Allen won by most effectively answering the question, “Dies immigration strengthen or threaten the United States?" Three of the four finalists concluded that the current immigration policy is potentially harmful to the nation. They also addressed what it means to be an American and stressed that American identity is evolving.

The effects of immigration and citizenship will continue as a source of debate and will likely be a key issue in the upcoming election. The vast difference in opinions is because both sides have valid points. There are those who would come to America with wrong motives and/or destructive plans. But there are presumably many more who dream of a new life and are willing to work hard, obey the rules, and contribute to society.

There is something related on this subject, but on spiritual plane. It supercedes all physical questions, concerns, and fears. Those who have trusted Christ as their personal Savior have become foreigners, in a way, even in the country where they legally reside. In reality, they have a dual citizenship. Paul speaks to this in Philippians 3:20 when he writes to, and about, all true Christian believers. “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” In addition, he reveals these words to the equation. “Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone.” (Ephesians 2:19-20).

But even the great significance of belonging to God’s kingdom extends beyond the immeasurable blessings and benefits of a heavenly home and future. The earthly residence of these same heavenly citizens is also is a distinct advantage to the nation in which they reside. The reason? Their godly lifestyles.

First, God’s people are admonished in Romans 13 to be ‘model citizens’. Verse one begins by revealing, “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.” Then a few specifics, Paul again emphasizes God’s will in verse 5. “Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience' sake.”

Then in addition to becoming ‘model citizens', God expects His people to be ‘moral citizens’. They are commanded to cling to a far higher standard than is the human norm. Peter sheds supernatural light on this in his first letter stating, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.” (1 Peter 3:15-17) And back in chapter one he relates the staggering degree of behavioral excellence that is to be outwardly evidenced by anyone who names the name of Jesus Christ. “But as He who called you is holy , you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, "Be holy , for I am holy ." (1 Peter 1:15-16)

It is unfortunate that many of America’s current citizens, and those desiring to join them, are not also citizens of heaven. The logic is simple, but the results undeniable. When Christians pattern themselves after their Lord, their lifestyles will be a great advantage to nation where they live and a credit to the God in whom they serve.

Bill Breckenridge