Christianity is often perceived as a religion. Religions are ‘organizations’ that are separate from or added our work and family life. But I want to argue that Christianity is not a religion but a nation of people living under the rule and laws of a King.
Of course Jesus is the King and theoretically rules His people with His Word. But most Christians don’t perceive His rule to be as the ruler of a nation but more like ruling our hearts and their local Church as the government of their spiritual life.
Jesus is the King of His Kingdom. He governs and judges Christians as a collective body. To that end all Christians are subservient to His rule and His rule is the same for all Christians everywhere. His rule governs our relationship with Him, other Christians, Civil Governments and those outside His Kingdom.
In that light we are a worldwide Christian ‘nation’ meaning a group of people with a shared heritage, laws and leadership. While we are citizens of different worldly nations we are primarily a citizen of His Kingdom (heaven).
Thus we should see ourselves first as part of His Kingdom or as a worldwide Christian nation, serving under His rule, seeking to advance His Kingdom and in fellowship with Christians worldwide.
Views from an Evangelist 