Is it wrong to display national flags in the house of God?
The Bible does not say anything about displaying flags in the sanctuary or church buildings. Some people assume it is wrong to display national flags in the sanctuary because they believe it violates the first and second commandments regarding images and idol worship. However, patriotism and respect for country does not fall into the category of worship.
For example, displaying the American flag is not a form of worship, but in most cases, an acknowledgment of patriotism and freedom. One may be proud to display the American flag in their church because of what that flag represents—a country that stands for freedom to worship whenever, wherever, and however they choose. For many, the American flag represents a country that grants them the freedom to worship in that church building without persecution or judgment. Therefore, displaying the flag in church may be a reminder of the freedoms that flag represents.
As long as the flag is not worshiped as an idol, then it technically does not violate any biblical principles (Exodus 20:3–6). That being said, Jesus did render to us the principle to maintain a church/state separation:
“And He said to them, ‘Whose image and inscription is this?’ They said to Him, ‘Caesar’s.’ And He said to them, ‘Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’” Matthew 22:20–21
While there is not an explicit text that says displaying flags in the church is wrong, we should be mindful to set appropriate boundaries between the function of the church and the function of the state. The flag is a representation of our respected country, but we should never allow it to become a symbol equal to or above the God of the Bible and what He represents. At the same time, we also should not allow such displays to become an issue of contention or division within our churches. In this case, if such a display offends or causes our brethren to stumble, Paul gives us the following counsel (emphasis supplied):
“Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another. Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All things indeed are pure, but it is evil for the man who eats with offense. It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak. Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin.” Romans 14:19–23
While the issue for the church in Rome was concerning food, Paul concludes that we should not “do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak.” Romans 14:21. Then he continues in verse 23, “for whatever is not of faith is sin.”
Non-salvation issues should not be allowed to divide the Church. Paul counsels the spiritually strong to not offend or further weaken the spiritually weak.