Our Citizenship is in Heaven

But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.（Philippians 3:20-21）

Introduction

Philippians 3:20-21 describes the "eternal identity" given to us as children of God. This identity is rooted in how our Heavenly Father, who made us, sees us through Christ. If we ask, God will show us who we are in Jesus, mold us into the image He wants us to be, and make us live fruitful lives.

1.The Gift of Heavenly Nationality
Just as we are given citizenship of an earthly country by birth, we are born again into the Kingdom of God through faith in Jesus Christ. This nationality is not earned but is a gift of grace. We are children of God, servants of Christ the King, and live under His rule. This heavenly nationality reminds us that we are not of this world while we live our finite lives here on Earth.

2.Heaven Meets Earth
The Kingdom of God is not confined to the spiritual realm but overlaps with the visible earthly world. Through Jesus, our Savior, Heaven has touched Earth. The Kingdom of God that has invaded the Earth since Jesus came continues to spread in this world where darkness reigns. We are citizens of His Kingdom who live in this heavenly realm every day of our lives. The Bible tells us that we have received every spiritual blessing in Christ and are now bridging heaven and Earth through our walk of faith.

May God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ be praised. God has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in heaven. (Ephesians 1:3)

3.Christ the King Who Came to Serve
In this world where darkness rules by its power and wealth and people are driven by self-interest, the Kingdom of God and its citizens are in stark contrast. The Kingdom of God, where Jesus rules with His grace, love, and righteousness, cannot be understood by earthly wisdom. Jesus, our King, came not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many. His Kingdom is ruled by his sacrificial love and transforming grace.

For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.　(Mark 10:45)

4.The Reality of Sin and Its Consequences
Throughout history, we know that many empires have risen and fallen. The same is true in today's world. No matter how much science has advanced, the fundamental problems of humanity have remained the same. The Bible reveals our most profound problems, namely, our alienation from God the Creator and our spiritual bondage caused by sin. In this world, we see many people walking away from God, overcome by the hardships of life, living in isolation without hope. The dire situation we see shows how broken this world is and speaks to our need for salvation.

5.Jesus Paid the Price for Us
Into this broken world, Jesus came to save us. His sacrificial death on the cross was the price paid to free us from the bondage of sin and to give us heavenly citizenship. God wants to provide this citizenship for everyone. Having already been made citizens of God's Kingdom, we are now responsible for sharing the grace of living in God's Kingdom with those around us. God does not count on our ability or success for His mission. He needs our surrendered lives. The Holy Spirit starts working through us abundantly when His living Word fills our hearts. The Kingdom of God has been expanded through the transformed lives of ordinary people following Jesus. It is no different today.

6.Our Journey Home
The Bible teaches that the Christian's life on Earth is a journey. We should realize that there is no final destination for us on this Earth. Our time for work, family, and leisure are an important part of this journey, but we cannot find our ultimate purpose in them. The time we spend in life is a finite, one-time opportunity to know God, walk with Him, and fulfill His purpose. When we, as citizens of heaven, love God above all else, love others as ourselves, and share the grace given to us, the Holy Spirit will expand the Kingdom of God on Earth through us.

Conclusion
Our true home and nationality are in heaven. We await the Savior who comes from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. As citizens of the Kingdom of God, let us be thankful for our heavenly nationality, ask God to spread His Kingdom through us, and walk together, longing for the return of our Lord.

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. (Colossians 3:1-4)