What Does God Say about Being a Good Citizen?

Since the democratic reforms of 1998 in our beloved country of Indonesia, press freedom has also been renewed. As a result, as we see today, everyone is free to express an opinion. In fact, there is no ban on criticizing the government, as long as such statements do not divide the nation, provoke others, or violate the ITE Law (Electronic Information and Transactions Law).

However, lately social media has been filled with negative comments involving a number of political figures. Rapid technological progress has made news spread quickly, including hoaxes. Without realizing it, we are vulnerable to being taken in by reports whose truth is still unclear. It is not impossible for us to be provoked into joining in with comments and spreading hatred.

As good citizens, how should we respond to this situation from a Christian perspective? More specifically, have we been wise in the way we use our freedom of speech?

God's Word teaches three things so that you can become a good citizen:

1. Bring Welfare

Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD for it, for in its welfare will be your welfare. – Jeremiah 29:7 

When the nation of Israel became captives and was exiled to Babylon, Jeremiah sent a letter to the elders, priests, prophets, and all the people with this message: that they must seek the welfare of the place where they were exiled. Not only that, Jeremiah urged them to pray for that city because the welfare of that city would become their welfare as well.

Imagine it: the people of Israel in exile were asked to do what would bring welfare to the city where they had been sent. Even though there they were oppressed, enslaved, and lived in injustice. Certainly, they also did not like living in a land that was not theirs. Yet that is what God desired from them.

As good citizens, we may feel deeply frustrated with the condition of our country today. We want to voice what is in our hearts, whether through social media or by taking part in demonstrations. But rather than making an unstable political climate worse, would it not be better for us to pray for good things for this nation?

Wherever we are, as Christians, we must seek welfare, not chaos or unrest. Before acting, ask yourself whether your action will bring welfare to others. Or will it instead divide one side from another?

Remember, if this country prospers, you will prosper as well. So do the things that bring welfare to this nation.

2. Submit to the Governing Authorities

Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those authorities that exist have been established by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. – Romans 13:1-2 

God wants us as Christians to submit to the governing authorities and to the regulations that apply. God uses government to teach us obedience. If as Christians we are responsible to the government and its laws, we are also responsible to God and to others.

Obey the rules not merely because of fear of punishment, but because we understand the responsibility of a good citizen. Submitting to the government is the right thing and must be part of our lives.

Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, and to be ready for every good work. – Titus 3:1 

3. Be Thankful

Give thanks always for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to our God and Father. – Ephesians 5:20 

Rather than complaining or remaining continually dissatisfied with the performance of the government, certain officials, or the system in place, it is better for us to give thanks for the country we live in. Even though our diversity is often threatened by irresponsible parties, there are still many wise and influential people who hold firmly to the noble values of this nation.

Be thankful that in this plural nation, which recognizes six different religions, we can still live side by side. We have the freedom to worship according to our respective beliefs, guaranteed by law and protected by the government.

Imagine how beautiful this country would be—and your social media wall as well—if we did not curse and attack one another, but instead gave thanks for diversity and for the presence of people who help preserve the unity of our nation.

Live as obedient children and do not follow the evil desires that ruled you in the time of your ignorance, but be holy in all your conduct, just as He who called you is holy. – 1 Peter 1:14-15  

The three things above are only a small part of what we can do as good citizens. Other things include obeying traffic regulations, paying taxes, obeying the laws in force, and maintaining courtesy and tolerance in religious, national, and civic life.

Let us become good citizens in accordance with what God teaches. May our lives bring glory to our Lord Jesus Christ, and make the people around us want to know the God we worship! - References: www.id.wikipedia.org/wiki/Undang-undang_Informasi_dan_Transaksi_Elektronik www.beritagar.id/artikel/berita/apa-saja-yang-perlu-anda-tahu-dalam-ujaran-kebencian - Church GKDI is currently present in 35 cities. We have Bible Study activities in every area. If you need information or would like to get involved, contact us at contact Church GKDI Official: WhatsApp 0821 2285 8686 or Facebook / Instagram GKDI Official

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