American idolatry?

A local church flies the American flag on a pole outside their church, with the Christian flag underneath. This is undoubtedly good flag-flying etiquette, because the American flag is always to be displayed in the dominant position. But what does it say about our theology?

A variation of the practice (seen in the smaller photo) is to fly the American flag and Christian flag side-by-side…with the American flag slightly higher of course, and the Christian flag on the same level as the Tennessee flag. In our own sanctuary for the past two weeks the American flag and Christian flag have been displayed on our stage, with the American flag on the speaker’s right and the Christian flag on the left. Again, this is good flag etiquette because it puts the American flag in the dominant role. But what does it say about our theology? At least in our sanctuary, the cross is the highest symbol in the room and it’s always front-and center.

I’m patriotic and I love this country. But we need to be careful what we say with our patriotism and our symbols. Do we truly put country before God, as our flag displays seem to imply?

We must realize that the church is an international organization, offering welcome, healing, forgiveness and a place in God’s family regardless of where a person comes from or what political or social views they hold.   And we need to do more than realize it. We need to put it into practice.

July 3, 2007 · Filed Under Culture, Posts that may get me fired :)

Comments

2 Responses to “American idolatry?”

  1. Sam Clark on July 16th, 2007 6:28 pm

    Dennis, it is wonderful to see someone so in love with Jesus that they would be concerned about this. I think you are probably flying the right flag in that. I think you are probably getting the perspective right too. Hail the King!

  2. Jeff on July 18th, 2007 9:36 pm

    Dennis: Ran across your comments in preparing for a message. Really appreciate your thoughts. Thanks for the help!

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