God gave humanity government in order to maintain social order, ensure domestic tranquility, and prevent chaos (which is even more harmful and destructive to people than corrupt and cruel government). Christ-followers’ first loyalty is supposed to be to the risen Jesus and after that to the government where they live. When that government (or anyone else) demands disobedience to the living Jesus, a Christ-disciple is called to humbly and respectively disobey while peacefully submitting to the consequences.

When Christians (as often happens in countries) begin to obey their government (or their desires) ahead of the Headship of Jesus their “salt loses its savor” and the light of Christ in them is hidden from those who most need to see it. Their proclamation that “Jesus is Lord,” is revealed to be mere words for them. Then their fellow citizens begin to see the Gospel as just religious hype. No Christian should ever say “My country first!” Wherever we live as Christ-followers, let us boldly proclaim (and demonstrate by our lifestyle), “Jesus first!”