Active Piety instead of War
God is our predestinator, Jesus is our savior, and the Holy Spirit is our teacher. The written word (the Bible) is an account of the will and authority of the Holy Trinity, the light of our kingdom. Thus, let us walk in the light of the New Covenant as the apostle said:
"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; and having in readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled." (II Cor. 10:3-6)
On the other hand, in regard to other aspects of patriotism excluding nationalism, the paying of our taxes satisfies the ordinance of God. Though we certainly do not agree with all the purposes of the expenditures of government, good is implemented on our part by financial support. We should not resist this obligation (Rom. 13:1-8).
However, these expenses could be diminished by providing our own educational institutions for children, including the indigent. By overcoming anti-Christian discipline, such as the prevention or discouragement (or even the lack of encouragement) of children praying, reading the Bible and preaching, a great step in fighting the good combat of faith would be accomplished (I Tim. 6:12-16). Children should not be threatened, but rather encouraged to speak even as Peter and John, "Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:19, 20). "We ought to obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29). As intelligent as many Christian men are, it is certainly not unreasonable to suggest they have the capability to institute such schools of spiritual nourishment and training notwithstanding divisions and interdenominational contention. Salaries could be cut by volunteer teachers (born again, not necessarily having a college degree or state standard equivalent). Funds could be attained through donations. Freely given, freely give. There is only one church--the body of believers; it is not impossible for Christians to unite for such a necessary cause if we would but do it. Remembering the poor and the masses is an essential part of Christiandom.
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