EPHESIANS 2:19

“So then you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household,”

I was born in the U.S., so I am a natural born citizen. I am proud to be a citizen of the U.S. We aren’t perfect, but I think we’re the greatest nation in the world. Millions of people around the world want to come to the U.S. for many reasons. Most of them want to become citizens. It is a long process to do that. Classes and tests are required. But if they persevere, they can become naturalized citizens with the same rights and privileges I have.

Paul tells us in today’s verse that we are “fellow citizens.” We belong in “God’s household.” That’s pretty special. The word Paul uses for “fellow citizens” is sumpolitéswhich only occurs in this verse. This is a compound word coming from sun (that inseparable “with”) and polites (citizen). In other words, this citizenship is undissolvable. God made us citizens, and no one can change that.

APPLICATION

Wherever you live, think about your citizenship. What does it mean to you? Do you value it? Would you rather be a citizen somewhere else? Some people have dual citizenship. They have rights in both countries. Unfortunately, many Christians try to live that way. They want to live in the world and also as a Christian. All through God’s Word we see pictures of that. It simply is not possible. You must choose.

Jesus said we cannot serve both God and mammon. In Matthew 6:24, He says this. “‘No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.” That’s pretty clear. Where is your citizenship – with God or with the world?

Like I said earlier, we are now in God’s house. We can dwell with Him. I have no idea what God’s house is like. It doesn’t matter. As long as He is there, I am content. I want to dwell with Him forever, don’t you? I am so glad I know He has counted me in His number.

Lord, Your promises are true – I will dwell with You forever!