Understanding Citizenship: Earthly and Heavenly Dimensions

In the natural or physical sense, a citizen is a person who legally belongs to a country either because of being born there or being declared a member by law. Consequently, they have the rights and protection of that country or sovereignty but also duties or obligations required of them. As citizens, we have certain responsibilities and rights in both the physical world and spiritual life, shaped by those in authority for our well-being. Resources are available to help us act wisely and stay committed to the roles we've been given. By recognising our duties and privileges, we can seek wisdom and strength to respect both earthly laws and spiritual values, aiming to show Christ's love and purpose throughout our lives.

The Default Spiritual State: Citizens of Satan's Kingdom

In the spiritual dimension each human is automatically born into the kingdom of Satan (because of the actions of Adam and Eve); Satan rules and enslaves each citizen with his values and lifestyle typified as the acts of the natural flesh (Rom 6:16; Gal 5:19-20). It is only through a definite legal transaction

we change allegiance from being citizens of the kingdom of Satan to that of God and become (future) citizens of heaven (Eph 2:1-5; Phil 3:20; Col 1:13). By repenting of sin and receiving Christ we are born-again by faith into the Kingdom of Heaven (Mt 3:2; Jn 1:12, 3:3,36).

Living as Citizens of Heaven While on Earth

Although as Christians we are still in this world we are not to be dictated to or controlled by its ungodly values, instead focused on the heavenly realm we will be going to and so endeavour to get in some practice now living by its values (Jn 17:14-16; Rom 8:13; Col 3:2-5).

The Holy Spirit who comes to live in us begins to transform our worldly desires into those that please God and bring us into conformity to Christ (Rom 8:29, 12:1-2; 1 Cor 3:16, 6:19-20).

Our Role as Ambassadors of the Heavenly Realm

While we are still in this world we are ambassadors of the heavenly realm and should be interacting with the lost as "salt and light" with the intention of getting them to join us there (Mt 5:14-16, 28:18-20). We should be role models of God's original design for humanity (before sin blighted us), of being blameless in His sight (Eph 1:4; Phil 2:15; 2 Pet 3:14).

There should be a marked contrast between our responses and lifestyle compared to those who don't know the transforming power of the salvation available in Jesus (Mal 3:18; Eph 4:17-24). Ours should reflect that we love God with our whole being and this outworked in our whole manner of life through our actions and work ethics, our words of gratitude and encouragement, not criticism and complaining, because we focus on the next (eternal) world and not the temporary visible life here on earth and sow to please the Spirit, not the flesh (Mk 12:30; 2 Cor 4:18; Gal 6:8).

Reflection and Application:

• Consider your current citizenship status - are you living as a citizen of heaven or still aligned with Satan's kingdom?
• Evaluate how well you're representing your heavenly citizenship in your daily interactions and choices.
• Reflect on whether your lifestyle demonstrates a marked contrast from worldly values and patterns.
• Assess how effectively you're serving as an ambassador to draw others toward heavenly citizenship.

See also: born-again, difference, divine exchange, Kingdom of God, Kingdom of Satan, lifestyle, master, response, rights, responsibilities.