How do you create a nation? What makes it a nation? What are the key elements of a nation?
Deuteronomy chapter 27, tells us about the forming of the nation of Israel. (Deuteronomy 27:9b) Like other nations, they separated from the rule they were under and fought to defend their freedom.
But it takes more than just separation and defense to make a nation. A new nation must not only abandon old rules, but it must also adopt new rules. To fail to do this is to create anarchy.
The nation established by God differs from the nations established by man. Nations established by man are created of the people, by the people, and for the people. But the nation established by God is of God, by God, and for God. Yet, even a nation established by God eventually starts a slow slide downward, due to man’s sinfulness.
So what does all this have to do with us, as believers?
1 Peter 2:9 tells us that Christians make up a holy nation. We’ve been chosen, separated, fought for, and established as a nation among nations with a singular purpose…to show others the goodness of God. (Philippians 2:15)
But what about the sinful nature that pulls people and nations away from their original intent? That’s where believers, as a nation, have the edge! The rule God separated us from and fought to end in our lives was the oppressive rule of sin. We are no longer bound to obey that old form of government. (Romans 6:6)
So we should live lives that exemplify the nation of God to others, so that we stand in counter distinction to the nations around us. Think of some ways you can do that, and try them out this week.