Learn not their ways 2_WMV V9

To begin, we are a people who belong to God. Not belonging to this world, or the nations of this world, we are citizens of Heaven residing here on earth. Just as Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt, so the Holy Spirit has led us out of this sin-cursed world to be a people separated and consecrated to the service of our King. We are in the world but not of it. We are one people, joined together and unified under the glorious banner of God's Kingdom. God has made it clear that He is our King and He desires to rule over us. This is called a theocracy: a government where God is the supreme ruler, governing by His Spirit Word through His prophets. In the theocracy there are no elections: only appointments. We don't vote; we submit as loyal subjects to a King who loved us enough to die on our behalf. We enjoy the security of knowing that our King can never be removed, overthrown or voted out. The same righteous ruler will be ours throughout eternity. On the human level, God appoints our leaders, like Moses, strengthening and protecting them, giving them the wisdom they need to guide His people. A standing army in the flesh need not be drafted. Carnal weapons are not needed, for God protects us, fighting on our behalf.

Mistakenly, the governments of this world try and claim God's people as their own. This can never be, for although we may live within their boundaries, our allegiance belongs solely to God's Kingdom. Jesus warned us of the consequences of such radical dedication: "You will be hated of all men for my sake" (Matt. 10:22-24). Persecution is the natural result, and we count it an honor to suffer for our Savior who redeemed us with His blood. It is the least we can do, and we won't complain. For without the loving mercy of King Jesus we would be doomed to eternity in Hell.

As God's Holy Tribal Nation we are a living example, an outpost, of God's Kingdom on earth. Our purpose: to lift up Jesus our King. We are meant to be a light of hope shining in the darkness of fallen humanity. Through us God has established a refuge for those seeking to be liberated from sin and to escape the oppressive culture of death which controls this sin-cursed earth. We are the final destination for those seeking the truth about how God desires His people to live. We are also a mouthpiece for the Word of the Lord, standing boldly for the truth and declaring His righteous judgments to a world that has forgotten their creator. Because the Word of God is living in our midst, God is able to send people to us to be judged for rebellion or blessed for obedience. Sin is judged without hesitation or compromise. Hidden sins are exposed, with repentance and forgiveness being the keys to victory. Correction goes by the Book: first in private, then in public if needed.