"Diplomatic Immunity"

In the international community there’s a generally accepted policy called diplomatic immunity. Its intention is to protect a nation’s representatives from unjust prosecution by a host country as well as safeguard confidentiality as officials go about their duties. While the need for this practice is apparent there are times when the privilege is abused and used as a shield for misconduct and even illegal activity (a recurring theme of TV crime shows). So when we hear the term it sometimes raises red flags in our minds.

 

As God’s people we can fall into the trap of seeing our security in His family as a kind of spiritual diplomatic immunity. Scripture clearly teaches that once one receives Christ as his/her Savior nothing can negate that relationship with Him (“…I am convinced that…nothing in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”—Romans 8:38-39, NLT). But does this give us the license to live as we please? The Apostle Paul didn’t think so (“Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means!”—Romans 6:1-2). On the contrary, Jesus’ beloved apostle wrote, “…Those who keep on sinning have never known (God) or understood who he is.” (1 John 3:6, NLT).

 

Diplomatic immunity carries with it the responsibility to positively represent one’s nation. Similarly, the certainty of our place in God’s family calls on us to make Him look good before a needy world. Jesus said, “…Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16). Are we ready to take His words seriously? Or are we more interested in claiming our version of diplomatic immunity?

 

Blessings!

Jim McMillan