Sermons

We must be careful not to blend secular identities with the Church of Jesus Christ, or religion and government. Expressions or symbols on monuments are not wrong, however, since they can reflect who the people are. The United States or any other country in history cannot claim to be the successor of national Israel or to be a people of God. Nations should promote righteousness and godliness. Righteousness or morality is doing the right thing, as God has described it in His Word. Godliness is observing attitudes and behaviors that God has said. A meaning of the word exalt is to fill with joy, characteristic of the abundant life. Leaders exalt a nation by promoting tranquility/peace, security/quietness, morality/godliness and integrity/dignity. John Calvin says that the purpose of government is ti uphold God's glory, preserve divine truth and promote the continuance of the Kingdom of God. Nations have difficult survival if leaders are corrupt. Leaders must take risks. The people exalt by honoring Godly leadership; praying for them, respecting them, rendering their due and obeying God. Sin is a disgrace or abomination to the Lord. It is rebellion; it brings ruin and is against God.