Episode Details

Should Christians love their own nation more than other nations? Does patriotism conflict with the Great Commission? And what does the Bible teach about our responsibilities to family, church, community, and nation? 

In this special in-studio episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard is joined by guest host Alex Kocman for a discussion on patriotism, nationalism, missions, and the Christian doctrine of rightly ordered loves . Drawing from Scripture, Augustine, Aquinas, and the historic Christian tradition, they explore whether Christians have unique obligations toward their own people and nation, how patriotism differs from nationalism, and why love for those nearest to us does not negate our responsibility to the nations.

Topics include:
Christian patriotism
Ordered loves
The Great Commission
Nationalism and "America First"
Civil magistrates and public life
Family, church, and nation
Biblical duties and loyalties
Missions and evangelism

Can love of country be a virtue? Or does it inevitably compete with loyalty to Christ? This episode tackles one of the most debated questions facing Christians today.