The following is derived from a sermon preached by Pastor Brandon Phillips on 1/19/2025

Tomorrow, the United States will witness the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th president. Like many presidential inaugurations, this moment brings the promise of change as President Trump aims to steer the country in a new direction. The political landscape is expected to shift, but how should we respond to these changes as Christians? How do we reconcile our earthly responsibilities with our eternal citizenship in heaven?

Government: Savior or Steward?

The presidency often stirs debates about the role of government in our lives. Under President Biden, we saw policies reflecting the belief that the government is a provider—a source of security and provision. In contrast, Trump’s administration promotes the free market as the solution to national issues, trusting in individual and corporate responsibility over government intervention.

But for Christians, these discussions about political systems and governmental influence prompt more profound questions: Are we placing our trust in political systems? Are we looking to the government as our savior or protector?

We need to ask ourselves whether our views of politics and government align with our Lord’s perspective. While political leaders and systems have an essential role, they are not ultimate. Only God is sovereign, and only Christ provides true salvation.

The Heart Behind Politics

Politics is often more about the heart than policies. There are three general perspectives people hold when it comes to government:

1. The Provider View – This group expects the government to provide for their needs, leading to support for policies that emphasize wealth redistribution and social welfare programs.

2. The Taker View – These individuals see the government as an institution that takes from them. They tend to lean toward limited government, prioritizing personal and corporate responsibility.

3. The Power View – For many politicians, government represents power and control. This group uses political influence for personal gain and to manipulate the other two groups.

At the root of these perspectives is our relationship with wealth—whether we trust the government, corporations, or individuals to manage and distribute it. The underlying issue, however, is much deeper than politics. Our attitude toward wealth reveals much about our relationship with God.

Wealth and Worship

In Matthew 6:24 (LSB), Jesus teaches, “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.”

Jesus’ words go beyond financial advice—they are a call to evaluate where our true allegiance lies. Do we trust in wealth, political power, or human systems to provide for us, or is our confidence in Christ alone?

In all its forms, wealth holds a powerful grip on the human heart. Jesus, with His divine knowledge and insight, recognized the dangers associated with material possessions. He understood that wealth could become a rival master, competing for our devotion and loyalty.

Where is Your Allegiance?

As a Christian, you must examine your heart. Are you more attached to this world's material possessions and comforts than our Savior? Are you trusting political leaders and their promises to protect you, or do you rest in the eternal security of God’s sovereign hand?

The inauguration of a new president is significant, but no political leader can ever replace the Lordship of Christ. Your responsibility is to engage in the political process wisely, understanding that our true citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). We belong to a kingdom that transcends national boundaries and political agendas.

Aligning with the Kingdom

As we reflect on Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, let’s examine our hearts. How do we view wealth, government, and power? Are we serving the kingdom of God, or are we being swayed by worldly systems and material wealth?

As we pray for our nation and its leaders, may we also pray that God would align our hearts with His kingdom's values. May we seek His kingdom and righteousness first (Matthew 6:33), trusting that He will provide all that we need.

Father, we thank You for Your sovereignty over the world, including its resources and political systems. As we witness the inauguration of a new president, help us to remember that our true allegiance is to Your kingdom. Align our hearts with Your values, and protect us from the love of wealth and power. May we trust in You alone for our provision and protection. In Jesus' name, Amen.