Patriotic Worship

by Mark on July 1, 2008

Brother Stan has posted some great thoughts over at the Reformed Baptist Fellowship blog about patriotic worship services.

A typical patriotic service might include a presentation of the American flag, singing of patriotic hymns, and a message centered around the Christian roots of the United States and a call to return to them. Are these services God-honoring? Are they wise?

Read the whole thing: Three Hymns for the Red, White, and Blue: Thinking About Patriotic Worship Services

I’ve always cringed when patriotic songs have been sung during a time when the congregation comes together to worship God. We have six others days of the week in which to celebrate our cultural holidays. Why do so many insist on including the type of praise that is focused on the creation before to the Creator?

Can you imagine singing Derek Webb’s A King & A Kingdom?

(chorus)
my first allegiance is not to a flag, a country, or a man
my first allegiance is not to democracy or blood
it’s to a king & a kingdom

For what it’s worth…

Mark

P.S. A more recent post on Patriotic Worship services.

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Mark

Appreciate the comments!

:)

Rev.

While Mr. Lumpkins may point out your cringing with a sense of dismay, I share your concern. I'm irritated when the American flag is in a church sanctuary (especially since it is always located in the position of honor - over and above the Christian flag). It doesn't bother me as much when in the military chapel, but my ultimate allegiance is to my King - Christ.

redandblackredneck

As my wife and I reviewed the order of service on Sunday we both cringed for that exact reason. Worship is for glorifying God, not to glorify or praise a political entity.

If the membership cared that much about a special service of thanksgiving for the blessings of our country, then have a special service on the 4th of July - not during the Lord's Day public worship service.