Keeping the Cross Above the Flag

September 10, 2025
By Rob Jackson, Founder & Lead Coach, Icebergology™ Coaching Academy

Today, our nation is reminded again how fragile life is and how quickly public discourse can turn toxic. We feel the weight of division, the sting of anger, and the ache of uncertainty.

In moments like this, followers of Christ have a choice. We can join the rising tide of hostility, or we can stand apart—anchored in a kingdom that cannot be shaken. If we are not careful, our faith can become tangled in national identity, and our witness can lose its power. Now, more than ever, we must keep Christ’s kingdom first—without stepping out of the public square.

A Kingdom That Cannot Be Shaken

“Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe.” (Hebrews 12:28 ESV)

Earthly kingdoms rise and fall. Nations change. Political movements come and go. But Christ’s kingdom will stand forever. If our hope rests on any platform, party, or nation, we will eventually be disappointed. If our hope rests in the Lord, we will never be put to shame (Psalm 25:3 ESV).

The Blessing of Keeping the Cross Above the Flag

When we keep the cross above the flag, our witness grows stronger. We speak into the public square with a hope that cannot be shaken, a love that cannot be silenced, and a message that cannot be co-opted. We become known not merely for what we oppose, but for the Christ we proclaim.

Four Ways to Keep Christ First in Turbulent Political Times

1. Guard Your Allegiance

We are first and foremost citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20 ESV). That means we measure every cause, candidate, and policy against the values of God’s Word—not the other way around.

Why This Matters: When our allegiance is clear, our message is clear—and the world sees Jesus, not just our politics.

2. Keep the Gospel Central

Paul resolved to know nothing except “Jesus Christ and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2 ESV). Civic engagement is good; making disciples is the mission. Our conversations, posts, and advocacy should make it clear where our true hope lies.

3. Engage With the Fruit of the Spirit

(Galatians 5:22–23 ESV) calls us to love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The way we speak matters as much as what we speak.

Why This Matters: Tone shapes trust. Cutting remarks shut doors, but kindness opens them. We cannot uphold biblical truth by using unbiblical tactics.

4. Remember Eternal vs. Temporary

Elections are decided in months. Laws can change in years. But the kingdom Jesus is building will never end. This truth frees us from panic and keeps our eyes fixed on what matters most.

When Politics Becomes an Idol

An idol is anything we look to for security, identity, or ultimate hope other than God. For some, that idol is political victory. When we believe that the future of God’s kingdom depends on our nation’s policies, we’ve misplaced our trust.

Jesus is building His Church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18 ESV)—regardless of who wins the next election.

A Next Step to Keep Your Witness Clear

This week, before you post a political opinion, pray:

“Lord, may my words reflect Your truth, my tone reflect Your heart, and my priorities reflect Your kingdom.”

Consider reaching out to someone who disagrees with you politically. Listen without interrupting. Look for opportunities to show Christ’s love in the midst of difference.

A Prayer for Disciples in the Public Square

Father, in a time when anger runs high and trust runs low, make us instruments of Your peace. Keep our hearts anchored in Your kingdom. Give us wisdom to know when to speak, courage to stand for truth, and humility to serve even those who oppose us. Protect us from placing our trust in earthly power, and animate our words and actions to reflect your glory and your kingdom. In Christ's name, Amen.

Final Thought: Our calling is not to “win America back for God,” but to glorify God with delight and obedience—wherever we are, and in whatever time He has placed us. The cross must always rise above the flag.