Topical Bible: Citizens: R. V.

◄ Citizens: R. V. ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the context of the Bible, the concept of citizenship is multifaceted, encompassing both earthly and heavenly dimensions. The Revised Version (R.V.) of the Bible, like other translations, provides insight into the biblical understanding of what it means to be a citizen, particularly in relation to the Kingdom of God and earthly nations.

Earthly Citizenship

The Bible acknowledges the reality of earthly citizenship and the responsibilities that come with it. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul often refers to his Roman citizenship as a means of navigating the legal and social structures of his time (Acts 22:25-29). This earthly citizenship provided him certain protections and rights, which he utilized to further his mission.

Romans 13:1-7 emphasizes the importance of submitting to governing authorities, as they are instituted by God. This passage underscores the Christian duty to respect and obey laws, pay taxes, and honor those in positions of authority, as long as such obedience does not conflict with God's commands.

Heavenly Citizenship

The concept of heavenly citizenship is a central theme in the New Testament. Philippians 3:20 states, "But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." This verse highlights the believer's ultimate allegiance to the Kingdom of God, transcending earthly affiliations.

Ephesians 2:19 further elaborates on this idea: "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household." This passage speaks to the unity and identity of believers as part of God's family, emphasizing their belonging to a spiritual community that surpasses national or ethnic boundaries.

Dual Citizenship

Christians are called to navigate the tension between their earthly and heavenly citizenships. While they live in the world and participate in its systems, their primary identity and loyalty lie with God's Kingdom. This dual citizenship requires discernment and wisdom, as believers seek to live out their faith in a way that honors God while engaging with the world around them.

The Apostle Peter addresses this duality in 1 Peter 2:11-12 : "Beloved, I urge you as foreigners and exiles to abstain from the desires of the flesh, which war against your soul. Conduct yourselves with such honor among the Gentiles that though they slander you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us." Here, Christians are reminded of their status as "foreigners and exiles" in the world, called to live exemplary lives that reflect their heavenly citizenship.

Implications for Christian Living

The biblical concept of citizenship carries significant implications for how Christians engage with society. It calls for a balance between fulfilling earthly responsibilities and maintaining a focus on eternal priorities. Believers are encouraged to be active participants in their communities, advocating for justice and righteousness, while always keeping in mind their ultimate home in heaven.

In summary, the Bible presents a nuanced view of citizenship, recognizing the importance of earthly affiliations while emphasizing the preeminence of one's identity as a citizen of heaven. This dual perspective shapes the Christian's approach to life, guiding their interactions with both the temporal and the eternal.

Nave's Topical Index

Ephesians 2:19
Now therefore you are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Conclusion
... not those now present in this dispensation of grace, or in the next of judgment;
but in the yet future dispensation of glory for the citizens of the ... and RV. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bullinger/commentary on revelation/the conclusion.htm

The People of the New Earth
... All are literal and real. We have the city and its light; and the river and trees;
and the relations of the citizens and nations to all. ... and RV. omit "John.". ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the people of the new.htm

Matt. xvi. 24
... For whereas we are strangers to the Heavens, but citizens of the earth, these are
just the contrary. ... Amen. [2160]. Footnotes: [2131] [RV, "If any man would come ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on the gospel of saint matthew/homily lv matt xvi 24.htm

The Beginning of the Gospel.
... about his loins, and did eat locusts and wild honey." Mark 1:1-6 (RV) ... in truth men
are not converted by preaching conversion, any more than citizens are made ...
/.../chadwick/the gospel of st mark/chapter 1 1-6 the beginning of.htm

The Doctrine of the Last Things.
... 18). Its Citizens: of the nations that are saved (citizens' characteristics
21:6, 7; 22:14, RV; contrast with 21:8, 27). Its Magnitude ...
/.../evans/the great doctrines of the bible/the doctrine of the last.htm

The Men of Gadara
... had done for him: and all men did marvel." Mark 5:14-20 (RV) ... But the citizens, like
the swineherds, were merely terrified, neither grateful nor sympathetic ...
/.../chadwick/the gospel of st mark/chapter 5 14-20 the men of.htm

'The Chief Corner-Stone'
... Christ Jesus Himself being the chief corner-stone.'"Ephesians 2:20 (RV). ... heap of
stones flung fortuitously together; they had become fellow-citizens with the ...
/.../expositions of holy scripture ephesians peter/the chief corner-stone.htm

Hebrews xi. 13-16
... For what hindered them if they wished, from returning again, and becoming citizens?
but they sought that which is in Heaven? ... In the RV they are omitted.--FG]. ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily xxiv hebrews xi 13-16.htm

The Occurrences at Alexandria.
... I need to send letters to those who are as my own bowels, [2313] dwelling in one
home, and brethren of one soul, and citizens of the ... gychvn; AV and RV, Gihon. ...
/.../pamphilius/church history/chapter xxi the occurrences at alexandria.htm

Fundamental Oneness of the Dispensations.
... Hebrews iii.-i-iv.13 (RV). ... Those who sometimes were far off have been made nigh;
the strangers and sojourners are henceforth fellow-citizens with the saints ...
/.../chapter iii fundamental oneness of.htm