The devil wants to subvert the Lordship of Christ any way he can. Right now there is an attack on American nationalism and patriotism. At the same time there is a push for Statism.
Christians must not allow social pressures to squeeze them into the mold of the world in either direction. Christians are actually supposed to be good citizens, even when their own country is not faithful to God's directives. On the other hand, Christians must not give their loyalty and trust to the State, which belongs to God alone.
Satan has often labeled Christians as being enemies of the State, simply because they would not give obeisance to the State. We should render honor to whom honor is due, but we should never give unrestrained submission to anyone except God.
For a Christian to honor only God as the supreme authority will cause people of differing viewpoints to rally against Christians. It is a subtle persecution, but Christians must not compromise the Lordship of Christ for any reason.
Romans 12:2
(2) And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Romans 13:1-7
(1) Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
(2) Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
(3) For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:
(4) For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
(5) Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.
(6) For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.
(7) Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.
Acts 5:29
(29) Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
