I minister
in a Christian country – the Philippines is often described as the only “Christian
country” in Asia.
Contrary to
some people’s assertions, the US is a Christian country in a demographic & cultural
sense. The problem with this kind of description the word “Christian” has more
than one meaning depending on how it is being used. This reality continually brings
confusion to discussions about the US & ways of trying to understand it.
I totally disagree
with our former President’s assertion that the US is not a Christian nation,
& that members of another religion have had a profound effect on the
shaping of it. At the same time, both public policy & individuals’ actions
have not always been consistent with Scripture.
These shortcomings just highlight the need to continue with what Jesus commissioned the church: "All authority has been given to Me in
heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing
them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching
them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you
always, even to the end of the age”
(Matthew 28:18-20).
There is a huge difference between living
in a “Christian country” & living as a Christian regardless of the cultural
& spiritual landscape. Every generation, regardless of the setting within
which it finds itself, needs a valid & realistic witness of Christ &
what it means to know & serve Him.
