Sermons

Stewardship of a Citizen

Twenty-nine years ago, we in The Bahamas, declared collective independence from the government of Great Britain. That independence of political sovereignty was fully realized and established through representative consultations and formation of a constitution that has guided our nation from 1973 to this day.

Our nation's independence economically and socially has developed based on a set of great principles and on a exceptionally great store of natural resources of sun sand and sea, but most of all on our great resource - its people.

Since the home, church and state are the three institutions that exist by divine approval. Ideally, one can be a good member of one family, active member of ones church, and worthy citizen of one country. When each occupies the respective place that God in his providence has assigned to them, there is no conflict. But when any one of them oversteps its authority, then a person must first be loyal to God.

Indeed, God has instituted the principle of law and order. The Christian, like everyone else is obliged to recognize civil authority and to obey the laws of society. However, by being subject to a higher principle, the Christian has a great responsibility to fulfill the requirements of a just society and of God at the same time.

Heavy responsibilities rest on all of us in this wonderful land of freedom, to see that our homes, churches and government function properly and fulfill God's plan.

We should be encouraged to dress, act, think and speak in a way that would be worthy of Jesus Christ as we strive with the help of the Holy Spirit to be good citizens of the Kingdom of God in out community.

How can we do this? Paul directs our attention to some practical attributes, which make for what Jesus said would be required as we establish the Kingdom of God and at the same time be good citizens of our Bahama Land.

1. As Christians, we have definite responsibilities towards our government;

• Government as an organization and institution is from God. (Rom. 13:1-4)
• Respect for and obedience to government laws are necessary attributes of Christians. (Rom. 13:5)
• Proper payment of taxes is part of our Christian responsibility toward government. (Rom 13:7) Whilst, we may complain about the improper use of taxes, We are obligated to work for legislation that will prohibit our tax dollars from being misused.
• We are to pray earnestly for all who are in positions of authority in government (1 Timothy 2:1-2). We do not have to admire or even agree with all government officials. If our government is imperfect and our governmental officials are unworthy, we should pray more earnestly for them so they might change and so the people might be protected from unjust governance.

2. Good citizens produces rich rewards for our country.

• Homes are safer and society is more secure.
• Political Life is on a finer and firmer foundation
• Cultural Life is encouraged and enriched.
• The community's religious life flourishes when citizens are responsible toward God, the country and themselves.

We can see from the recent General Election that we are dealing with a more mature electorate, Christian citizenship is more evident and decisions are being made in harmony with Christian imperatives of love and justice.

Undoubtedly, the evil head of corruption, victimization, misuse and abuse pops up every now and then, much to our regret, but we must not assume a negative attitude toward governance and retreat into solitude with a feeling of helplessness and despair.

My fellow Bahamians, as we give God thanks for our stability and accomplishments, let us also give ourselves in service to God as responsible citizens, not only of the Kingdom of Heaven, but also of the community in which we live, so that we may establish justice, righteousness and peace among all humanity, and support, preserve and protect freedom in our Bahama Land.

Happy Independence Day!!!