An Anglican Catechism (Expanded Version)

Question 363: How do you practice citizenship as a Christian?

Question 363: How do you practice citizenship as a Christian?

I practice citizenship as a Christian by honoring my earthly authorities, obeying just laws, and seeking the peace and good of my community, while keeping my ultimate allegiance to Christ and His kingdom. I participate faithfully in public life—through voting, service, advocacy, and prayer—guided by God’s Word and moral truth. In all things, I aim to reflect Christ’s character, uphold justice and mercy, and live as a witness to the gospel in the public square. (Romans 13:1–7, Jeremiah 29:7, Matthew 5:13–16, 1 Peter 2:13–17, Philippians 3:20)

Full Scripture References​

“Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God… For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad… Pay everyone what you owe him… honor and respect.” – Romans 13:1–2, 3, 7 (BSB)

“Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD on its behalf, for if it prospers, you too will prosper.” – Jeremiah 29:7 (BSB)

“You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world… let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:13–16 (BSB)

“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution… Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.” – 1 Peter 2:13, 17 (BSB)

“But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ…” – Philippians 3:20 (BSB)

Expanded Explanation of Catechism Question

To practice Christian citizenship is to live faithfully in both the heavenly kingdom and the earthly one. We are citizens of heaven first, yet God calls us to live with responsibility and integrity as citizens of our nation. Bishop Charlie Masters (ANiC, Diocese of the Living Word) writes, “Faithful citizenship means loving your country without worshiping it—and serving your neighbor without compromising your Lord.” (Living as Dual Citizens, 2022)

This includes obeying just laws, paying taxes, and honoring leaders, while also standing for righteousness and speaking truth to power. Fr. Isaac Rehberg (ACNA, All Saints San Antonio, TX) explains, “The Christian citizen is loyal, not silent. We are called to engage society, not escape it—to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.” (Citizens of Two Realms, 2021)

Christian citizenship also means seeking the common good. We are to vote wisely, serve sacrificially, and pray earnestly for our leaders and nation. Fr. Caleb Evans (Anglican Orthodox Church, St. Stephen’s Mission, GA) teaches, “To practice citizenship as a Christian is to build where God has planted you. You are salt and light—not in theory, but in city councils, neighborhoods, and local needs.” (Faith in the Public Square, 2020)

Yet this engagement is always guided by Scripture and the lordship of Christ. When governments stray from justice or demand what is contrary to God’s Word, the Christian must stand firm. Fr. Thomas Buchan (Anglican Union, St. Mark’s Anglican Church, VA) writes, “A faithful citizen is not an unthinking one. We obey, but never idolize; we serve, but always within the boundaries of the gospel.” (Conscience and Kingdom, 2021)

Canon George Grant (ACNA, Parish Presbyterian Church, TN) adds, “Christian citizenship is a long obedience—lived in patience, prayer, and public faithfulness. It does not clamor for power but serves with humility, trusting God to bring justice in His time.” (Recovering Anglican Piety, 2019)

Early Church Fathers On Catechism Question

“Live as citizens of earth, yet always as children of God. Honor the emperor, but fear the Lord.” – Augustine of Hippo, On Christian Conduct in Society, c. 420 AD

“The Christian does not withdraw from public life, but enters it with light. Let him govern his household—and his city—with justice and prayer.” – Basil the Great, Homily on Civic Responsibility, c. 370 AD

“Obey rulers in what is just; resist them in what is wicked. But in all things, let charity be your banner.” – John Chrysostom, Homily on Romans 13, c. 390 AD

“Let the believer work for peace, pray for kings, and speak truth in love. In this way, he fulfills his calling both to heaven and to earth.” – Cyprian of Carthage, To the Magistrates, c. 250 AD

An Anglican Catechism (Expanded Version)

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