Patriotism

"The Bible teaches Christians to obey and honor the leaders of the nation in which they live. Peter tells Christians to 'honor the emperor' (1 Peter 2:17) and to Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors … (vv. 13–14). Paul likewise encourages not only obedience but also honor and appreciation for civil rulers when he writes to the Romans, 'Let every person be subject to the governing authorities' (Rom. 13:1) and says that the ruler is 'God’s servant for your good' (v. 4). He concludes this section by implying that Christians should not only pay taxes but also give respect and honor, at least in some measure, to rulers in civil government: 'Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed' (v. 7). These commands follow a pattern found in the Old Testament as well, as the following verses indicate: 'My son, fear the LORD and the king, and do not join with those who do otherwise' (Prov. 24:21). 'Even in your thoughts, do not curse the king, nor in your bedroom curse the rich' (Eccl. 10:20)." - Wayne Grudem, Politics - According to the Bible: A Comprehensive Resource for Understanding Modern Political Issues in Light of Scripture (pp. 109-111)