Pentecost Week Six - Luke 6:20:20-26 - Render Unto God What is God's
A New Week in a New Direction
If you’ve been following our journey through Luke, you’re probably expecting us to step into Luke 7 this week. Well—surprise! We’re taking a little detour. (Don’t worry, I will be sure to keep Luke 7 on the horizon!)
I wanted to make a detour because I have sensed some tension in the church around How and what we worship. So I will do my best to walk this tightrope this week. By Saturday – some of you may be upset – but you WILL be enlightened none the less.
So here we go - this week, we’re diving into Luke 20:20–26—a passage in which Jesus addresses one of life’s most significant tensions: the difference between worship and allegiance.
“Buckle Up, buttercup” – as we used to say in the Marines!
Worship is about what we revere—what captures our hearts and devotion.
Allegiance, on the other hand, is about whom we follow and trust. The two are deeply connected, but they’re not the same. I’m going to do this early this week and ask – read that last sentence again!
When these two things get tangled, as they so often do, we risk giving away to the world what belongs to God.
Remember that old Sesame street song – one of these things is not like the other?
Here are the next few lines...
In our scripture this week (Mon-Thursday anyway), Jesus is confronted with a question meant to trap Him: “Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar?”
His response—“Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s”—is profound, not just for its wisdom but for what it reveals about priorities.
On Friday and Saturday, we will look at what this means for us and our church! Come Sunday – well, we will to get where I am trying to go slowly - but, we will get there.
This week, I want to explore what it means to truly “render to God what is God’s.” What does it look like to give Him our worship, our trust, and our whole selves, even in a world full of competing demands, traditions, the “how we always do it,” and other such nonsense!
This week is two years overdue on my part...
If you’ve been following our journey through Luke, you’re probably expecting us to step into Luke 7 this week. Well—surprise! We’re taking a little detour. (Don’t worry, I will be sure to keep Luke 7 on the horizon!)
I wanted to make a detour because I have sensed some tension in the church around How and what we worship. So I will do my best to walk this tightrope this week. By Saturday – some of you may be upset – but you WILL be enlightened none the less.
So here we go - this week, we’re diving into Luke 20:20–26—a passage in which Jesus addresses one of life’s most significant tensions: the difference between worship and allegiance.
“Buckle Up, buttercup” – as we used to say in the Marines!
Worship is about what we revere—what captures our hearts and devotion.
Allegiance, on the other hand, is about whom we follow and trust. The two are deeply connected, but they’re not the same. I’m going to do this early this week and ask – read that last sentence again!
When these two things get tangled, as they so often do, we risk giving away to the world what belongs to God.
Remember that old Sesame street song – one of these things is not like the other?
Here are the next few lines...
One of these things is not like the others,
One of these things just doesn't belong,
Can you tell which thing is not like the others
By the time I finish my song?
In our scripture this week (Mon-Thursday anyway), Jesus is confronted with a question meant to trap Him: “Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar?”
His response—“Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s”—is profound, not just for its wisdom but for what it reveals about priorities.
On Friday and Saturday, we will look at what this means for us and our church! Come Sunday – well, we will to get where I am trying to go slowly - but, we will get there.
This week, I want to explore what it means to truly “render to God what is God’s.” What does it look like to give Him our worship, our trust, and our whole selves, even in a world full of competing demands, traditions, the “how we always do it,” and other such nonsense!
This week is two years overdue on my part...
Monday: "What We Worship Shapes Us"
New Testament Scripture: Luke 20:20-22
Old Testament Connection: Exodus 20:3-4
Historical and Cultural Context:
The Pharisees and Herodians approach Jesus with a question designed to trap Him:
“Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar?” At first glance, it seems like a simple political debate, but Jesus knows the deeper issue at play: loyalty and worship. Of course He does!
The Roman denarius was more than just money—it was a symbol of Caesar’s authority. The coin bore his image and inscription, which often referred to him as “son of the divine.”
Paying the tax wasn’t just a financial transaction; it was a recognition of Caesar’s rule and, in some ways, his claim to divinity. For devout Jews, this was deeply problematic. Their faith declared that only God was worthy of ultimate allegiance.
But the Pharisees and Herodians aren’t asking this question out of faithfulness to God. They’re trying to trap Jesus.
If He says, “Yes, pay the tax,” He risks alienating the Jewish people. If He says, “No, don’t pay,” He risks being accused of rebellion against Rome.
The real issue isn’t taxes; it’s about what we worship and where we place our ultimate allegiance.
Modern Context:
What we worship shapes us. It influences our decisions, our priorities, and even our relationships. The question isn’t whether we’re worshiping something—it’s what we’re worshiping.
In today’s culture, the “denarius” might look like success, security, or approval. We’re constantly tempted to give our hearts to things that promise happiness but can never truly satisfy. Like the Pharisees and Herodians, we can claim to honor God while secretly worshiping power, control, or comfort.
I was going to write more today - but I want to ease into this discussion. It would help if you put yourself in the place of the Jews being told to worship Ceasar as their God (but that is tomorrows blog).
Today, I ask you to take time to reflect:
What’s capturing your heart and devotion? Is it God, or is it something else?
Are you giving more energy to building your career than growing your faith? Is there a fidelity or loyalty in your heart greater than God?
Are you more concerned with people’s approval than God’s? Yikes!!!
Prayer:
Lord, we confess that too often, we allow other things to take Your place in our hearts. Success, comfort, approval, and control become idols that distract us from You. Help us to see clearly what we’re worshiping and to turn our hearts back to You. Teach us to give You the worship You deserve, and to trust You with everything we are. Amen.
New Testament Scripture: Luke 20:20-22
Old Testament Connection: Exodus 20:3-4
Historical and Cultural Context:
The Pharisees and Herodians approach Jesus with a question designed to trap Him:
“Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar?” At first glance, it seems like a simple political debate, but Jesus knows the deeper issue at play: loyalty and worship. Of course He does!
The Roman denarius was more than just money—it was a symbol of Caesar’s authority. The coin bore his image and inscription, which often referred to him as “son of the divine.”
Paying the tax wasn’t just a financial transaction; it was a recognition of Caesar’s rule and, in some ways, his claim to divinity. For devout Jews, this was deeply problematic. Their faith declared that only God was worthy of ultimate allegiance.
But the Pharisees and Herodians aren’t asking this question out of faithfulness to God. They’re trying to trap Jesus.
If He says, “Yes, pay the tax,” He risks alienating the Jewish people. If He says, “No, don’t pay,” He risks being accused of rebellion against Rome.
The real issue isn’t taxes; it’s about what we worship and where we place our ultimate allegiance.
Modern Context:
What we worship shapes us. It influences our decisions, our priorities, and even our relationships. The question isn’t whether we’re worshiping something—it’s what we’re worshiping.
In today’s culture, the “denarius” might look like success, security, or approval. We’re constantly tempted to give our hearts to things that promise happiness but can never truly satisfy. Like the Pharisees and Herodians, we can claim to honor God while secretly worshiping power, control, or comfort.
I was going to write more today - but I want to ease into this discussion. It would help if you put yourself in the place of the Jews being told to worship Ceasar as their God (but that is tomorrows blog).
Today, I ask you to take time to reflect:
What’s capturing your heart and devotion? Is it God, or is it something else?
Are you giving more energy to building your career than growing your faith? Is there a fidelity or loyalty in your heart greater than God?
Are you more concerned with people’s approval than God’s? Yikes!!!
Prayer:
Lord, we confess that too often, we allow other things to take Your place in our hearts. Success, comfort, approval, and control become idols that distract us from You. Help us to see clearly what we’re worshiping and to turn our hearts back to You. Teach us to give You the worship You deserve, and to trust You with everything we are. Amen.
Tuesday: "Bearing God’s Image"
New Testament Scripture: Luke 20:23-24
Old Testament Connection: Exodus 20:1-5
Historical and Cultural Context:
When Jesus asks for a denarius, it wasn’t about money, but the image stamped on it: Caesar’s. This wasn’t just a detail—it was a deliberate reminder of what the coin represented. In the Roman world, coins weren’t just currency; they were propaganda.
The image of Caesar declared his authority, and the inscription often proclaimed him as “son of the divine.” I know you read that in the introduction, but we need to hang in the verse a bit. We all see things that mean other things!
Jesus’ is leading His audience to a deeper truth: we bear God’s image. Genesis 1:26-27 tells us that we were created in the image of God, designed to reflect His character and purposes. Just as the denarius belonged to Caesar, our lives belong to God. – so, is Ceasar a God or a man?
But then He did not ask that, did He?
This was Jesus’ way to make a profound challenge in a world where loyalty to Rome often came into conflict with faithfulness to God. Jesus’ words forced His listeners to think about where their ultimate allegiance lay.
Modern Parallel:
Today, we face similar questions about identity and allegiance. The world tries to stamp its image on us, shaping our values and priorities around things like wealth, power, and appearance. But Jesus reminds us that our true identity is found in being made in God’s image.
There are signs and symbols all around us that we don’t even consider a subtle reminder to be allegiant to that artifact. Dig deep this week and you will understand! We only worship on "thing," God!
Let me digress as I am getting ahead of myself. Think about this for a moment: If you belong to God, what does that mean for how you live? Are your actions, words, and decisions reflecting His character, or are they shaped by the world’s values? What about the images and symbols and regalia you don’t even realize is a different message beguiling your fidelity?
A Call to Action:
Take some time today to reflect on what it means to bear God’s image. Ask yourself: How can I live in a way that reflects His love, justice, and mercy? What areas of my life need to be realigned with His purposes? And then open your eyes for the next few days and see what the “Caesars” of the world have made you not even notice anymore.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for creating us in Your image. Help us to remember that our identity is found in You, not in the world’s standards. Teach us to live in a way that reflects Your character and brings glory to You. Show us how to align every part of our lives with Your purposes. Amen.
New Testament Scripture: Luke 20:23-24
Old Testament Connection: Exodus 20:1-5
Historical and Cultural Context:
When Jesus asks for a denarius, it wasn’t about money, but the image stamped on it: Caesar’s. This wasn’t just a detail—it was a deliberate reminder of what the coin represented. In the Roman world, coins weren’t just currency; they were propaganda.
The image of Caesar declared his authority, and the inscription often proclaimed him as “son of the divine.” I know you read that in the introduction, but we need to hang in the verse a bit. We all see things that mean other things!
Jesus’ is leading His audience to a deeper truth: we bear God’s image. Genesis 1:26-27 tells us that we were created in the image of God, designed to reflect His character and purposes. Just as the denarius belonged to Caesar, our lives belong to God. – so, is Ceasar a God or a man?
But then He did not ask that, did He?
This was Jesus’ way to make a profound challenge in a world where loyalty to Rome often came into conflict with faithfulness to God. Jesus’ words forced His listeners to think about where their ultimate allegiance lay.
Modern Parallel:
Today, we face similar questions about identity and allegiance. The world tries to stamp its image on us, shaping our values and priorities around things like wealth, power, and appearance. But Jesus reminds us that our true identity is found in being made in God’s image.
There are signs and symbols all around us that we don’t even consider a subtle reminder to be allegiant to that artifact. Dig deep this week and you will understand! We only worship on "thing," God!
Let me digress as I am getting ahead of myself. Think about this for a moment: If you belong to God, what does that mean for how you live? Are your actions, words, and decisions reflecting His character, or are they shaped by the world’s values? What about the images and symbols and regalia you don’t even realize is a different message beguiling your fidelity?
A Call to Action:
Take some time today to reflect on what it means to bear God’s image. Ask yourself: How can I live in a way that reflects His love, justice, and mercy? What areas of my life need to be realigned with His purposes? And then open your eyes for the next few days and see what the “Caesars” of the world have made you not even notice anymore.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for creating us in Your image. Help us to remember that our identity is found in You, not in the world’s standards. Teach us to live in a way that reflects Your character and brings glory to You. Show us how to align every part of our lives with Your purposes. Amen.
Wednesday: "What Belongs to God?"
New Testament Scripture: Luke 20:25
Old Testament Connection: Malachi 3:8-10
Historical and Cultural Context:
When Jesus says, “Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s,” He’s drawing a clear line: some things may belong to earthly authorities, but everything ultimately belongs to God. For His Jewish audience, this would have echoed the covenant relationship between God and Israel.
The tithe, offerings, and sacrifices were ways of acknowledging that their time, resources, and lives belonged to Him. But Jesus isn’t just talking about religious rituals. He’s challenging His listeners to consider the full scope of their allegiance. Are they giving God what truly belongs to Him, or are they holding back? Their hearts?
Sandra shared a great scripture this morning from Leviticus 6:13 The fire must be kept burning on the altar continuously; it must not go out.
Charles Spurgeon reminds us that this verse should also be understood and applied in the context of the altar of the heart, for this is a golden altar indeed.
God loves to see the hearts of His people "on fire" toward Him. May we give our hearts, ablaze with love, to Him. This also nicely begs the question of the Altar in our sanctuary. Is it on fire? Is it a living testimony for God in His house, or is it cluttered and available to false idols.
Altar Guild 101
Here a quick lesson on what a church worship space looks like...
First there is the raised area called the Chancel. The railing around the chancel is called the chancel rail, The table that holds a bible or candles and often the offering plate is called the Altar! There is always a cross and bible present either on the altar or on the wall – or someplace close.
The altar (the table) is the focus point of what most people are calling that entire ensemble as “the altar.” We put our offerings on the Altar, we put our prayers on the altar, we put our communion elements on the altar to be blessed. We light the candles on the altar to represent the presence of Christ light with us. We use the altar for anything where we are asking God to bless or cleanse or prepare those things for our WORSHIP to Him.
Why do I bring this up – because that is the most holy space in our sanctuary. I try very hard to keep it uncluttered – and holy. That’s why I moved the liturgist off the chancel and to a podium to deliver church announcements. That is why I moved the King and Queen chairs (my slang) off the chancel, and also why I moved he flags off the chancel. We bring the song leader onto the chancel as hymns are a form of worship! The chancel space is where we make space for God to be present with us (symbolically – but literally) during worship.
What Spurgeon is saying about our hearts being an Altar is that we are to make a place in our hearts as equally holy as what I just described. That is why Christ came!!! So we did not need a temple anymore because He lives within us – and we celebrate Him at the altar of our heart! Make sense?
Ok – back to today’s verse.
Jesus’ reminds us that everything belongs to God: our time, our talents, our resources, and our very selves. It’s tempting to compartmentalize our lives—to give God our Sunday mornings but keep the rest of the week to ourselves. Think about the areas of your life where you’re holding back. Is it your time? Your finances? Your relationships? Are you giving God the leftovers, or are you offering Him your best?
When we consider the altar of our heart where we only allow one God at that altar, the same goes for the sanctuary – that space is for only one purpose – to Worship God!
But – in our lives we often find ourselves worshiping other things – I mentioned a few yesterday.
Today, take some time today to reflect on what it means to “render to God what is God’s.” What does it look like to live as someone fully surrendered to Him?
Is there a specific area of your life where God is calling you to trust Him more deeply?
A Quick Wednesday Prayer:
Lord, everything we have comes from You. Forgive us for the ways we hold back what rightfully belongs to You. Teach us to live with open hands and surrendered hearts, offering You not just our resources but our whole lives. Show us how to honor You in every area of our lives. Let us build a holy place for your to dwell in our hearts our homes our cars our everything – especially in Your House where we gather!
Amen.
New Testament Scripture: Luke 20:25
Old Testament Connection: Malachi 3:8-10
Historical and Cultural Context:
When Jesus says, “Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s,” He’s drawing a clear line: some things may belong to earthly authorities, but everything ultimately belongs to God. For His Jewish audience, this would have echoed the covenant relationship between God and Israel.
The tithe, offerings, and sacrifices were ways of acknowledging that their time, resources, and lives belonged to Him. But Jesus isn’t just talking about religious rituals. He’s challenging His listeners to consider the full scope of their allegiance. Are they giving God what truly belongs to Him, or are they holding back? Their hearts?
Sandra shared a great scripture this morning from Leviticus 6:13 The fire must be kept burning on the altar continuously; it must not go out.
Charles Spurgeon reminds us that this verse should also be understood and applied in the context of the altar of the heart, for this is a golden altar indeed.
God loves to see the hearts of His people "on fire" toward Him. May we give our hearts, ablaze with love, to Him. This also nicely begs the question of the Altar in our sanctuary. Is it on fire? Is it a living testimony for God in His house, or is it cluttered and available to false idols.
Altar Guild 101
Here a quick lesson on what a church worship space looks like...
First there is the raised area called the Chancel. The railing around the chancel is called the chancel rail, The table that holds a bible or candles and often the offering plate is called the Altar! There is always a cross and bible present either on the altar or on the wall – or someplace close.
The altar (the table) is the focus point of what most people are calling that entire ensemble as “the altar.” We put our offerings on the Altar, we put our prayers on the altar, we put our communion elements on the altar to be blessed. We light the candles on the altar to represent the presence of Christ light with us. We use the altar for anything where we are asking God to bless or cleanse or prepare those things for our WORSHIP to Him.
Why do I bring this up – because that is the most holy space in our sanctuary. I try very hard to keep it uncluttered – and holy. That’s why I moved the liturgist off the chancel and to a podium to deliver church announcements. That is why I moved the King and Queen chairs (my slang) off the chancel, and also why I moved he flags off the chancel. We bring the song leader onto the chancel as hymns are a form of worship! The chancel space is where we make space for God to be present with us (symbolically – but literally) during worship.
What Spurgeon is saying about our hearts being an Altar is that we are to make a place in our hearts as equally holy as what I just described. That is why Christ came!!! So we did not need a temple anymore because He lives within us – and we celebrate Him at the altar of our heart! Make sense?
Ok – back to today’s verse.
Jesus’ reminds us that everything belongs to God: our time, our talents, our resources, and our very selves. It’s tempting to compartmentalize our lives—to give God our Sunday mornings but keep the rest of the week to ourselves. Think about the areas of your life where you’re holding back. Is it your time? Your finances? Your relationships? Are you giving God the leftovers, or are you offering Him your best?
When we consider the altar of our heart where we only allow one God at that altar, the same goes for the sanctuary – that space is for only one purpose – to Worship God!
But – in our lives we often find ourselves worshiping other things – I mentioned a few yesterday.
Today, take some time today to reflect on what it means to “render to God what is God’s.” What does it look like to live as someone fully surrendered to Him?
Is there a specific area of your life where God is calling you to trust Him more deeply?
A Quick Wednesday Prayer:
Lord, everything we have comes from You. Forgive us for the ways we hold back what rightfully belongs to You. Teach us to live with open hands and surrendered hearts, offering You not just our resources but our whole lives. Show us how to honor You in every area of our lives. Let us build a holy place for your to dwell in our hearts our homes our cars our everything – especially in Your House where we gather!
Amen.
Thursday: "Allegiance in a Divided World"
New Testament Scripture: Luke 20:26
Old Testament Connection: Isaiah 55:8-9
A little shorter today...
Historical and Cultural Context:
In Jesus’ day, rendering to Caesar went far beyond paying taxes. It meant living under the entire framework of Roman governance, which touched almost every part of daily life. Rome demanded not only taxes but also obedience to its laws, participation in its systems, and acknowledgment of its authority. How does that compare to us today - not to far removed other than our constitutional rights. (and that is big).
Beyond taxes, subjects of Rome were expected to comply with its laws, support its military through resources or service, and in some regions, even participate in the imperial cult, which worshiped Caesar as a god. For devout Jews, this presented a constant tension. Their faith declared that only God deserved worship and ultimate allegiance, yet they lived under a system that demanded loyalty to a human emperor.
When Jesus said, “Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s,” He wasn’t just sidestepping a political trap. He was drawing a line between earthly and divine authority. Taxes, currency, and governance may belong to Caesar, but our very selves—our hearts, souls, and worship—belong to God. By framing it this way, Jesus challenges His listeners to consider where their ultimate allegiance lies.
Modern Parallel:
Today, we may not live under Roman rule, but the tension remains. We’re constantly pulled between the demands of the world and our allegiance to God. Careers, politics, social obligations, cultural expectations and even the various degrees of patriotism - all vie for our loyalty. Sometimes it feels like the only safe harbor for us is in our Sanctuary. Yet, during Covid, even that was challenged and the 1st amendment infringed upon. Crazy - right?
Jesus’ teaching reminds us to put these things in their proper place. Yes, we have earthly responsibilities, but they must never overshadow our ultimate allegiance to God. The world may claim parts of our time and resources, but it cannot claim our worship or our identity. We belong to God because we bear His image.
Take some time today to reflect on how you navigate the tension between earthly and divine authority. Are you giving too much of your heart and devotion to worldly demands? How can you live in a way that honors your responsibilities while keeping God first?
The Thursday Prayer:
Lord, You alone are worthy of our ultimate allegiance.
Forgive us for the times we allow the world to claim what belongs to You.
Teach us to live faithfully under earthly authority while remaining fully devoted to You. Help us to honor You in all areas of our lives and to trust You above all else.
Amen.
New Testament Scripture: Luke 20:26
Old Testament Connection: Isaiah 55:8-9
A little shorter today...
Historical and Cultural Context:
In Jesus’ day, rendering to Caesar went far beyond paying taxes. It meant living under the entire framework of Roman governance, which touched almost every part of daily life. Rome demanded not only taxes but also obedience to its laws, participation in its systems, and acknowledgment of its authority. How does that compare to us today - not to far removed other than our constitutional rights. (and that is big).
Beyond taxes, subjects of Rome were expected to comply with its laws, support its military through resources or service, and in some regions, even participate in the imperial cult, which worshiped Caesar as a god. For devout Jews, this presented a constant tension. Their faith declared that only God deserved worship and ultimate allegiance, yet they lived under a system that demanded loyalty to a human emperor.
When Jesus said, “Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s,” He wasn’t just sidestepping a political trap. He was drawing a line between earthly and divine authority. Taxes, currency, and governance may belong to Caesar, but our very selves—our hearts, souls, and worship—belong to God. By framing it this way, Jesus challenges His listeners to consider where their ultimate allegiance lies.
Modern Parallel:
Today, we may not live under Roman rule, but the tension remains. We’re constantly pulled between the demands of the world and our allegiance to God. Careers, politics, social obligations, cultural expectations and even the various degrees of patriotism - all vie for our loyalty. Sometimes it feels like the only safe harbor for us is in our Sanctuary. Yet, during Covid, even that was challenged and the 1st amendment infringed upon. Crazy - right?
Jesus’ teaching reminds us to put these things in their proper place. Yes, we have earthly responsibilities, but they must never overshadow our ultimate allegiance to God. The world may claim parts of our time and resources, but it cannot claim our worship or our identity. We belong to God because we bear His image.
Take some time today to reflect on how you navigate the tension between earthly and divine authority. Are you giving too much of your heart and devotion to worldly demands? How can you live in a way that honors your responsibilities while keeping God first?
The Thursday Prayer:
Lord, You alone are worthy of our ultimate allegiance.
Forgive us for the times we allow the world to claim what belongs to You.
Teach us to live faithfully under earthly authority while remaining fully devoted to You. Help us to honor You in all areas of our lives and to trust You above all else.
Amen.
Friday: "Citizens of Heaven"
New Testament Scripture: Romans 13:1-2
Old Testament Connection: Isaiah 33:22
We are now taking a detour – and this is for my blog readers only. So far this text is not in my sermon – but who knows. I am test driving this scripture and my exegesis.
Historical and Cultural Context:
Philippi was no ordinary city in the Roman world—it was a Roman colony, established as a settlement for retired Roman soldiers after key military victories. These veterans were fiercely loyal to Rome and to Caesar, who had rewarded them with land, privileges, and the coveted status of Roman citizenship. The city was a proud extension of the empire, modeled after Rome itself in governance, architecture, and culture.
In Philippi, loyalty to the empire wasn’t just a private sentiment—it was publicly displayed. Roman Flags (signa), such as the eagle (aquila), were carried into military parades and battles as powerful symbols of Rome’s authority. Coins bore the image of Caesar, proclaiming him as divine. Everyone swore an allegiance to the banners. Festivals and public acts of worship in the imperial cult reinforced the message that allegiance to Caesar—and by extension, to the empire—was paramount.
For Christians in Philippi, this created a tension. Declaring “Jesus is Lord” wasn’t just a spiritual statement—it was a direct challenge to Rome’s claim that “Caesar is Lord.” Choosing loyalty to Christ over loyalty to Caesar could mean social ostracism, economic loss, or even persecution.
(What you will learn Sunday is that this exact thing happened during the reconstruction of the south - including Texas - after the Civil War – now you know!).
Paul’s reminder to the Philippians in Philippians 3:20—“Our citizenship is in heaven”—was a radical reorientation of their identity. While they lived in Philippi and respected Roman governance, their ultimate allegiance belonged to Christ.
It wasn’t just about where they belonged; it was a statement of hope, pledging loyalty to a kingdom that promised eternal justice, joy, and peace.
Modern Parallel:
Today, the pressures of earthly citizenship may look different, but the challenge remains the same. We are constantly pulled in competing directions—by our careers, culture, politics, and social expectations. National identity and patriotism can be valuable, but they must never overshadow our allegiance to God.
Paul’s words call us to live with a clear focus: our true citizenship is in heaven. This identity should shape how we live, how we engage with the world, and how we worship. As citizens of heaven, we are called to embody the values of God’s kingdom—love, justice, humility, and mercy—even when they clash with the world’s values.
A Call to Action:
In reflecting on Paul’s words, challenge yourself to consider how your heavenly citizenship influences your daily life. Do you find yourself more committed to earthly symbols than to the values of God’s kingdom?
Let these questions guide your thoughts and prayers today.
The Friday Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the gift of citizenship in Your kingdom – and the tranquility of our little town.
Help us to live as faithful representatives of Your love and truth in a world that often pulls us in other directions. Teach us to honor our earthly responsibilities without compromising our loyalty to You.
May our worship – in all places and spaces, words, and actions reflect Your glory alone!
Amen.
New Testament Scripture: Romans 13:1-2
Old Testament Connection: Isaiah 33:22
We are now taking a detour – and this is for my blog readers only. So far this text is not in my sermon – but who knows. I am test driving this scripture and my exegesis.
Historical and Cultural Context:
Philippi was no ordinary city in the Roman world—it was a Roman colony, established as a settlement for retired Roman soldiers after key military victories. These veterans were fiercely loyal to Rome and to Caesar, who had rewarded them with land, privileges, and the coveted status of Roman citizenship. The city was a proud extension of the empire, modeled after Rome itself in governance, architecture, and culture.
In Philippi, loyalty to the empire wasn’t just a private sentiment—it was publicly displayed. Roman Flags (signa), such as the eagle (aquila), were carried into military parades and battles as powerful symbols of Rome’s authority. Coins bore the image of Caesar, proclaiming him as divine. Everyone swore an allegiance to the banners. Festivals and public acts of worship in the imperial cult reinforced the message that allegiance to Caesar—and by extension, to the empire—was paramount.
For Christians in Philippi, this created a tension. Declaring “Jesus is Lord” wasn’t just a spiritual statement—it was a direct challenge to Rome’s claim that “Caesar is Lord.” Choosing loyalty to Christ over loyalty to Caesar could mean social ostracism, economic loss, or even persecution.
(What you will learn Sunday is that this exact thing happened during the reconstruction of the south - including Texas - after the Civil War – now you know!).
Paul’s reminder to the Philippians in Philippians 3:20—“Our citizenship is in heaven”—was a radical reorientation of their identity. While they lived in Philippi and respected Roman governance, their ultimate allegiance belonged to Christ.
It wasn’t just about where they belonged; it was a statement of hope, pledging loyalty to a kingdom that promised eternal justice, joy, and peace.
Modern Parallel:
Today, the pressures of earthly citizenship may look different, but the challenge remains the same. We are constantly pulled in competing directions—by our careers, culture, politics, and social expectations. National identity and patriotism can be valuable, but they must never overshadow our allegiance to God.
Paul’s words call us to live with a clear focus: our true citizenship is in heaven. This identity should shape how we live, how we engage with the world, and how we worship. As citizens of heaven, we are called to embody the values of God’s kingdom—love, justice, humility, and mercy—even when they clash with the world’s values.
A Call to Action:
In reflecting on Paul’s words, challenge yourself to consider how your heavenly citizenship influences your daily life. Do you find yourself more committed to earthly symbols than to the values of God’s kingdom?
Let these questions guide your thoughts and prayers today.
The Friday Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the gift of citizenship in Your kingdom – and the tranquility of our little town.
Help us to live as faithful representatives of Your love and truth in a world that often pulls us in other directions. Teach us to honor our earthly responsibilities without compromising our loyalty to You.
May our worship – in all places and spaces, words, and actions reflect Your glory alone!
Amen.
Saturday: "The Kingdom Above All"
New Testament Scripture: Romans 13:3-7
Old Testament Connection: Psalm 47:7-8
Historical and Cultural Context:
The believers in Rome lived in a world where loyalty to Caesar was not optional—it was enforced. For the early believers of Christ, this created a profound tension.
However, Paul’s teaching in Romans 13 isn’t a call to passive submission; it’s a challenge to live with clarity—a recognition that while earthly rulers have their place, they never hold ultimate authority.
For the early church, this wasn’t just about politics; it was about living as ambassadors of God’s kingdom in the midst of a broken world.
Here is a reality check - in most places around the world - fidelity to Christ lands you in jail - or worse. Think about that. We are only free to worship because it was designed into our system of government.
Our first amendment is not simply freedom of religion but freedom FROM GOVERNMENT interference in how we worship God. The early founders wanted to be sure that we were not forced to worship a king or queen or president or governor. Yet - in post civil war reconstruction - that is exactly what happened.
Ready for this?
During Reconstruction (1865–1877), the federal government implemented policies to reintegrate Southern states into the Union and ensure loyalty to the United States after the Civil War. The "churches" in the south were central to community life, often used as public gathering places, including political meetings.
Union officials and Northern missionaries worked to establish Unionist sentiment in Southern churches, especially in north/south border states
The Amnesty Act of 1872 and earlier Reconstruction Acts (e.g., 1867) required Southerners to take oaths of allegiance to regain citizenship rights. In occupied areas, Union military officials often encouraged or mandated displays of the American flag to symbolize compliance.
For example, in New Orleans, occupied by Union forces in 1862, General Benjamin Butler ordered the American flag to be flown over public buildings, and churches that were included as community hubs. Resistance to these displays was common, with some Southerners viewing the flag as a symbol of Northern domination.
Historical records show that Unionist churches used the flag to affirm their allegiance, a practice that spread to other Southern churches as Reconstruction progressed. Displaying the American flag in churches was a way to signal loyalty to the federal government, especially in areas with mixed Unionist and Confederate sympathies.
Likewise, Southern clergy faced scrutiny from Union authorities if suspected of Confederate sympathies. For example, in 1865, some Methodist Episcopal bishops in the South were required to revise their liturgies to remove prayers for the Confederacy and include prayers for the U.S. government. Displaying the American flag in churches serves as a visible sign of compliance, and reduced scrutiny from federal officials.
Today, it is rare to find an American flag in any Methodist church - except in the former southern slave states.
But here is one more thing - any church displaying the flag inside the sanctuary HAS TO FOLLOW U.S. CODE.
4 U.S.C. § 7(k): Flag Placement in Churches
The exact text states:
"When displayed from a staff in a church or public auditorium, the flag of the United States of America should hold the position of superior prominence, in advance of the audience, and in the position of honor at the clergyman’s or speaker’s right as he faces the audience. Any other flag so displayed should be placed on the left of the clergyman or speaker or to the right of the audience."
What would Jesus say about this - posting of the flag of the United States of America, inside the Chancel, in a position of superior prominence, and higher than the alter - as is required by U.S. Code?
"Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's."
Everything inside the Chancel is where we worship God!
Yet, if the Flag is in there, law says we are to give it superior prominence over God?
If it is not inside the Chancel and along the back wall - is it in violation of 4 U.S.C. § 7(k)?
Let me wrap up:
Today, loyalty to earthly systems may not involve Caesar’s coins or decrees, but the challenge remains. We live in a culture that constantly demands our attention, loyalty, and energy. The world urges us to pledge our allegiance to things that are temporary and often divisive.
But as Christians, we are called to a different standard. To live with an eternal perspective means seeing beyond the immediate pressures of life and focusing on God’s reign. It means prioritizing His values—love, mercy, justice—above the fleeting agendas of this world - even if we have been holding onto those alternate values all our life.
This doesn’t mean withdrawing from society or neglecting our responsibilities. We should honor tradition, respect authority, provide space for displays of our patriotism, and celebrate the freedoms we have as a nation. But it does mean keeping our ultimate loyalty to God, ensuring that no earthly priority competes with His rightful place in our hearts.
Saturday Prayer:
King of Kings, we are surrounded by voices that compete for our loyalty. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on You and to live with an eternal perspective.
Teach us to honor You in all that we do, and to seek Your kingdom first. May our lives reflect Your glory, and may our worship be a witness to the world that You reign above all.
Amen.
New Testament Scripture: Romans 13:3-7
Old Testament Connection: Psalm 47:7-8
Historical and Cultural Context:
The believers in Rome lived in a world where loyalty to Caesar was not optional—it was enforced. For the early believers of Christ, this created a profound tension.
However, Paul’s teaching in Romans 13 isn’t a call to passive submission; it’s a challenge to live with clarity—a recognition that while earthly rulers have their place, they never hold ultimate authority.
For the early church, this wasn’t just about politics; it was about living as ambassadors of God’s kingdom in the midst of a broken world.
Here is a reality check - in most places around the world - fidelity to Christ lands you in jail - or worse. Think about that. We are only free to worship because it was designed into our system of government.
Our first amendment is not simply freedom of religion but freedom FROM GOVERNMENT interference in how we worship God. The early founders wanted to be sure that we were not forced to worship a king or queen or president or governor. Yet - in post civil war reconstruction - that is exactly what happened.
Ready for this?
During Reconstruction (1865–1877), the federal government implemented policies to reintegrate Southern states into the Union and ensure loyalty to the United States after the Civil War. The "churches" in the south were central to community life, often used as public gathering places, including political meetings.
Union officials and Northern missionaries worked to establish Unionist sentiment in Southern churches, especially in north/south border states
The Amnesty Act of 1872 and earlier Reconstruction Acts (e.g., 1867) required Southerners to take oaths of allegiance to regain citizenship rights. In occupied areas, Union military officials often encouraged or mandated displays of the American flag to symbolize compliance.
For example, in New Orleans, occupied by Union forces in 1862, General Benjamin Butler ordered the American flag to be flown over public buildings, and churches that were included as community hubs. Resistance to these displays was common, with some Southerners viewing the flag as a symbol of Northern domination.
Historical records show that Unionist churches used the flag to affirm their allegiance, a practice that spread to other Southern churches as Reconstruction progressed. Displaying the American flag in churches was a way to signal loyalty to the federal government, especially in areas with mixed Unionist and Confederate sympathies.
Likewise, Southern clergy faced scrutiny from Union authorities if suspected of Confederate sympathies. For example, in 1865, some Methodist Episcopal bishops in the South were required to revise their liturgies to remove prayers for the Confederacy and include prayers for the U.S. government. Displaying the American flag in churches serves as a visible sign of compliance, and reduced scrutiny from federal officials.
Today, it is rare to find an American flag in any Methodist church - except in the former southern slave states.
But here is one more thing - any church displaying the flag inside the sanctuary HAS TO FOLLOW U.S. CODE.
4 U.S.C. § 7(k): Flag Placement in Churches
The exact text states:
"When displayed from a staff in a church or public auditorium, the flag of the United States of America should hold the position of superior prominence, in advance of the audience, and in the position of honor at the clergyman’s or speaker’s right as he faces the audience. Any other flag so displayed should be placed on the left of the clergyman or speaker or to the right of the audience."
What would Jesus say about this - posting of the flag of the United States of America, inside the Chancel, in a position of superior prominence, and higher than the alter - as is required by U.S. Code?
"Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's."
Everything inside the Chancel is where we worship God!
Yet, if the Flag is in there, law says we are to give it superior prominence over God?
If it is not inside the Chancel and along the back wall - is it in violation of 4 U.S.C. § 7(k)?
Let me wrap up:
Today, loyalty to earthly systems may not involve Caesar’s coins or decrees, but the challenge remains. We live in a culture that constantly demands our attention, loyalty, and energy. The world urges us to pledge our allegiance to things that are temporary and often divisive.
But as Christians, we are called to a different standard. To live with an eternal perspective means seeing beyond the immediate pressures of life and focusing on God’s reign. It means prioritizing His values—love, mercy, justice—above the fleeting agendas of this world - even if we have been holding onto those alternate values all our life.
This doesn’t mean withdrawing from society or neglecting our responsibilities. We should honor tradition, respect authority, provide space for displays of our patriotism, and celebrate the freedoms we have as a nation. But it does mean keeping our ultimate loyalty to God, ensuring that no earthly priority competes with His rightful place in our hearts.
Saturday Prayer:
King of Kings, we are surrounded by voices that compete for our loyalty. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on You and to live with an eternal perspective.
Teach us to honor You in all that we do, and to seek Your kingdom first. May our lives reflect Your glory, and may our worship be a witness to the world that You reign above all.
Amen.
Pentecost Week Seven - Luke 7:1-10 - Jesus is Amazed
July 20th, 2025
Pentecost Week Six - Luke 6:20:20-26 - Render Unto God What is God's
July 13th, 2025
Pentecost Week Five - Luke 6:42-47 - A Church on Quicksand
July 6th, 2025
Pentecost Week Four - Luke 6:37-42 - Judging
June 29th, 2025
Pentecost Week Three Peter 1:3-8
June 22nd, 2025
4 Comments
Thank you for that basic explanation! I was just asking someone last week, what is that area called - you know the stage! LOL
nThe chancel-
Spelling correction: altar is a noun meaning table as you described. Alter is a verb meaning to change.
Debbie - I hope that didn't sound snarky; I was having fun. Thanks for pointing it out, as I have now fixed it! WOW - I had no idea there were so many uses... lol. Yikes!
And we should not alter the altar as it might alter others' perception of what it means to have an altar on our heart that we need to alter our future.... did I get lol
Debbie - I hope that didn't sound snarky; I was having fun. Thanks for pointing it out, as I have now fixed it! WOW - I had no idea there were so many uses... lol. Yikes!