20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Galatians 3:20-21
But our citizenship is in heaven
In an international setting, we begin introductions by sharing our country. This is one of the most impactful aspects. However, let’s not forget the essence of our identities! Paul passionately reminds us that at our core, we are believers. Identifying ourselves as devoted followers of Christ should flow effortlessly from our hearts. Ask yourself—do your friends and co-workers truly know that you are a believer? They absolutely should!
But this principle has several more implications.
Firstly, we are all foreigners in this world, true aliens in a sense! Can you just imagine how an alien would react to the astonishing things we humans do on Earth? We ought to feel that same shock and awe! As these foreigners, we carry the incredible responsibility of being ambassadors for Christ. We must shine His light in a world that desperately needs it.
20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.
2 Corinthians 5:20
An ambassador is, above all, a passionate champion of his home country, embodying its rich culture and profound values. In this vital role, he fervently strives to bridge the divide between nations. As ambassadors for Christ, we are called to draw people into a harmonious relationship with Him. We are driven to reconcile the world to God. We passionately advocate for an “immigration” from the kingdom of this world to the glorious kingdom of heaven. This journey is made possible by the sacrifice of the cross. We also stand as radiant representatives of Christ, who is the light of the world. Like shining beacons, we reflect His boundless love and holiness to those who are lost. As foreigners in this world, we must resolutely reject its sinful practices. We must embrace our calling to be in the world but not of it.
And as vibrant sojourners in this vast world, we must resist the urge to cling to its fleeting comforts. We understand that all the sights and treasures we encounter are but ephemeral illusions. Yet, the glorious promises of God resonate with eternal significance, echoing through the ages!
Secondly, as citizens of our beloved country, we are bestowed with remarkable privileges. In God’s kingdom, these privileges are magnified beyond measure, offering us boundless blessings that non-citizens can only dream of!
Here are some of the special privileges God extends to citizens of His kingdom:
• Forgiveness of sins
• Adoption as sons and daughters
• Promise of answered prayer
• Eternal life
• Promise of providence (Romans 8:28)
How can you fervently embody Christ as His devoted ambassador? In these challenging times, we witness an alarming rise in arguments and divisions online. So, how do you radiate the glorious light of Christ through social media platforms like Facebook? What is one powerful way to truly be in this world while remaining untouched by its shadows?
Cross-References
- Colossians 3:2
- Romans 12:1-2
Discussion Questions
• What is an example of an earthly thing that you sometimes set your mind on?
• What does it mean to you that our citizenship is in heaven?
• Knowing this, how should we act while we are on earth?
• If you were to leave your country and move abroad, what might you miss?
• Do you think about heaven?
• Do you long for anything there?
• What is one way you can be heavenly minded this week?
It Starts Small 
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