Kingdom Citizenship What it Means

One of the most controversial figures in the Bible, the apostle Paul, was known for his powerful teachings and his unwavering faith in Christ. However, many may not know that Paul was also a Roman citizen, which held great significance during ancient times. It was a big deal and so is your citizenship within the royal priesthood.

In fact, his citizenship granted Paul privileges and protections not available to non-citizens. Let us explore why Paul's Roman citizenship was so important. 

Firstly, Roman citizenship granted Paul certain legal rights. Paul could not face punishment without due process of law, unlike non-citizens who faced arbitrary arrests and punishments. This was a significant protection for him during his ministry, as he faced imprisonment and physical persecution for his beliefs. It also allowed him to have a fair trial when accused of any wrongdoing.

In addition, being a Roman citizen provided Paul with travel privileges. Paul could travel freely throughout the vast empire without fear of detention or harassment from local authorities. This was crucial for his missionary journeys, as he spread the gospel to different communities.

Perhaps one of Paul's biggest benefits from Roman citizenship was protection from physical punishment. Unlike non-citizens, he could not face beatings or tortures without a trial as a citizen. This protection was a crucial factor in Paul's ability to continue his ministry despite facing frequent persecution.

Paul was also financially advantageous because of his Roman citizenship. Certain taxes, like the poll tax, imposed on non-citizens, did not apply to citizens. This allowed him to focus his resources on his ministry and support himself as he traveled and preached.

Furthermore, Roman citizens held a higher social status in society, bringing with it certain privileges and respect. This elevated status also granted Paul a level of influence and credibility when speaking to local authorities and communities.

In conclusion, Paul's Roman citizenship was a significant aspect of his identity and played a crucial role in his ministry. With legal rights, travel privileges, protection, financial benefits, and a higher social status, Paul was able to freely and effectively spread the message of Christ throughout the Roman empire. His citizenship was a testament to the sovereignty and power of God, who used even the most unlikely circumstances to advance His kingdom on earth.

As disciples of Christ, we hold a unique status and identity as citizens of the kingdom of God. This citizenship gives us certain rights and privileges, similar to the way Paul's Roman citizenship provided him with benefits during ancient times. Let us explore how we, as followers of Christ, are citizens of the kingdom and members of a royal priesthood.

First, as citizens of the kingdom of God, we have the right to use Jesus' powerful name. In John 14:13–14, Jesus promises, "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." This means that we have the authority to use the name of Jesus to ask for anything according to His will, knowing that He will hear and answer our prayers.

Our right is to call on Jesus' blood for protection and victory. In Revelation 12:11, it says, "They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death." The blood of Jesus has the power to overcome all evil and protect us from harm, no matter what trials or challenges we may face.

We, as members of the royal priesthood, also have the right to bind and loosen spiritual opposition. In Matthew 18:18, Jesus says, "Truly, I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." This means that we have the authority to bind the works of the enemy and release the power of God to overcome any spiritual opposition in our lives.

Moreover, disciples of Christ have the right to receive the Holy Spirit. In Acts 2:38, Peter says, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. You will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." The Holy Spirit empowers and guides us in our daily lives, helping us to live out our calling as citizens of the kingdom of God.

Lastly, we have the right to boldly enter into the presence of God. Hebrews 4:16 says, "Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." Jesus' sacrifice grants us the right to confidently approach God's throne, knowing that He loves and accepts us.

In addition to these rights, we also have the right to receive forgiveness, have eternal life, be heirs of God, and have access to His wisdom and guidance. As citizens of the kingdom of God, we have a special identity and inheritance that sets us apart from the world. Let us use these rights to bring glory to His name and advance His kingdom on earth. Just as Apostle Paul expressed his rights as a Roman citizen, so too do we express our rights as citizens in the kingdom of God.

Your partner,
(c) Apostle Jonas Clark
www.jonasclark.com