“For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ”.
Philippians 3:20
As Christians, we are called to a life that extends far beyond the here and now. The Bible teaches that when we accept Jesus Christ in our lives, we are no longer defined by our earthly citizenship, but we are granted a new identity as citizens of heaven. This identity shapes how we live, view the world, and fulfill our purpose. In this article, we’ll explore what it means to live as citizens of heaven.
- We are not of this world
We are foreigners in this world because we belong to the kingdom of God (1 Pet 2:11). In John 17:16, our Lord Jesus said, we are not of the world, even as He is not of it. While we live in this world, our values, priorities, and actions should reflect our heavenly citizenship. We don’t need to conform to the pattern of this world.
- We live with an eternal perspective
The world chases after things that don’t last forever, but we should not be attached to the temporary things of this world. We keep our hearts and minds on the eternal treasures of God. Colossians 3:2 reminds us to “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things”. Life is short compared to the eternity we will spend with God. Are we spending more time in worldly pleasures or seeking God?
- We are representing Christ on earth
We are called to represent Christ to those around us. In 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul writes, “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us”. Our lives should reflect His love, grace, and truth in all that we do. Whether through our actions, words, or attitude, we are called to mirror Christ.
- We have a mission to fulfil
Jesus Christ gave us the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age”. God desires for all people to be saved and it is our mission to share the gospel and make disciples. Let’s stay focused on what truly matters: bringing souls into the kingdom of God.
- Heaven is our home
Our true home isn’t here on earth, but in heaven, where we will dwell with God forever. Heaven is not a vague idea, it is a real place, where there will be no more suffering, death, or pain. In John 14:2-3, Jesus Christ says, “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” What a glorious future awaits us!
As Christians, we are citizens of heaven and our lives are meant to reflect that truth in everything we do. Life on earth is short, but eternity is forever. We are all looking forward to spend eternity with God. Until then, we press on, stay faithful and keep our eyes on Jesus Christ— the author and finisher of our faith.
Further study: Matthew 6:19-21; Ephesians 2:19-22
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