PATRIOTISM
Patriotism can be a good thing. But as we enter into the season of red, white, and blue (Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day) we still need to ask, is it biblical? Where in scripture are Christians told to be patriotic?

Of course, during the eras when the Bible was written the modern concept of nationhood didn't exist. And certainly the idea that the people themselves would be the government was not anywhere near being on the radar screen. Most government was monarchical -- often tyrannical. Yet, Christians are admonished to pray for the government and to be as obedient as possible (e.g. 1 Peter 2:13-17). But scripture never goes so far as to wax on the virtues of patriotism (or even independent nationhood).

Again, this doesn't necessarily mean that patriotism is bad or wrong. It's just not a part of the mission of the church. There are lots of good things that are not a part of mission of the church -- fire prevention week, the click-it or ticket campaign, mosquito abatement... But we don't "bring in the kingdom of God" by spraying for mosquitoes. Likewise we don't bring Jesus' kingdom to bear on the world by flying the flag.

Does this mean that we shouldn't fly the flag? No, in moderation flag flying is a healthy thing for any nation. It's just not a part of the church's mandated mission.