Introduction

Is Christian nationalism a good or bad thing? The answer largely depends on how we define the term. In a previous post, I discussed the various interpretations of Christian nationalism that circulate today. This post aims to delve deeper into the potential negative aspects of Christian nationalism. By examining historical precedents and contemporary examples, we will explore how the fusion of religious fervor and national identity can undermine both democratic principles and genuine religious faith, leading to significant social, political, and ethical challenges.

What comes to mind when you hear the term “Christian nationalism”? When I first encountered this phrase, it struck me as fundamentally odd. There was an inherent dissonance in it, a contradiction that seemed almost self-evident, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. The term first crossed my path in the context of the January 6th Capitol riots, which might have initially colored my perception with negativity. Media coverage, I know, can significantly influence our emotions. However, as I delved deeper into the concept, my discomfort intensified. Proper Christian doctrine posits that the Church has one head, Jesus Christ, and there is only one Kingdom He rules over. All earthly, man-made governments are transient, destined to pass away, while Christ’s Kingdom is eternal. The notion that the Church could be conflated with something inherently “American,” or that “America” could be seen as Christ’s Kingdom, felt increasingly unsettling. The Church, according to Christian doctrine, is universal, encompassing people from all nations, tribes, and tongues.

This uneasy feeling prompted me to dig deeper into the term “Christian nationalism” to understand how it is being used today and what issues surround it. It has taken me some time to get to this post because there was a bit of learning I needed to do and some wrestling with my own patriotism (love for country) and devotion (love for God) to determine where the line should be drawn between the two. I invite you to join me in wrestling with these issues, and to facilitate this, I will offer up some of my concerns for your consideration.

“A qualified patriotism is in order for the common good given the good of the American Creed and in the providence of God.” – Douglas Groothuis

A Historical Perspective on the Interplay Between Christianity and State Power

It is important to acknowledge Christianity’s profound impact on Western society and the United States. While the United States is not a Christian nation nor a theocracy, it’s undeniable that Judeo-Christian virtues and ideals have deeply influenced its development. These principles have shaped the nation’s legal systems, cultural norms, and ethical frameworks, contributing to the promotion of values such as justice, compassion, and human dignity. However, understanding this influence requires a nuanced perspective that recognizes both the positive contributions and the potential pitfalls of intertwining religion and governance.

The complex relationship between Christianity and state power can be traced back to the reign of Constantine, who made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire. It was clear, and remains evident, that Constantine’s decision was driven by expediency; he recognized the potential to use the growing Christian movement to consolidate his influence over the diverse populations of the empire. This fusion of church and state introduced a paradox that has persisted throughout history, leading many to seek power and manipulate people in the name of religion.

The power struggles between popes and rulers are well-documented, with numerous conflicts and wars framed as holy endeavors but often fought for personal gain. Historical examples abound, serving as stark warnings of the dangers inherent in the union of religious authority and political ambition. From the Crusades to the Thirty Years’ War, the narrative of Christian wars reveals a pattern where the purity of religious motives was frequently tainted by the quest for temporal power.

“Christianity is a rebellion against natural law, a protest against nature. Taken to its logical extreme, Christianity would mean the systematic cultivation of the human failure.” – A. Hitler

Throughout history, there have been ebbs and flows in the relationship between societal benefits and abuses perpetrated in the name of religion. There were periods when Christianity was compulsory, and others marked by greater tolerance. Notably, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain exemplified the exploitation of religious authority for personal gain. Their reign saw the expulsion of Jews and Muslims, the horrors of the Inquisition, and the exploitation of Native Americans—all under the guise of religious purity and national unity.

“Scholars are almost unanimous that nationalist governments tend to become authoritarian and oppressive in practice.” – Paul Miller

One particular example of the intersection between religion and politics is the 1844 presidential bid of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His campaign was unique, as it was led by a prophet-leader of a new faith, aiming to bring his religious vision to the national stage. However, Smith’s campaign was abruptly cut short due to his assassination in June 1844, prior to the election. Despite his untimely death, Smith’s presidential campaign remains a significant chapter in both Latter-day Saint history and American political history. This historical context resurfaced during Mitt Romney’s presidential run, as some speculated that Mormons might view his candidacy as the fulfillment of prophecy and the dawn of a new age in America.

The Christianization of political power is not without severe consequences. The identification of leaders like U.S. President Donald Trump as a “new Cyrus” reflects a dangerous trend of bestowing religious legitimacy on political figures. This identification often leads to the conflation of religious devotion with political loyalty, resulting in policies that may harm both civic and religious freedoms​​.

Despite these dark chapters, the Church has also been a catalyst for significant progress in Western society. The development of science during the Renaissance, the founding of hospitals and universities, and the establishment of fundamental human rights and religious freedoms are all rooted in Christian virtues. These achievements underscore the profound positive impact that true Christian doctrine, based on God’s love, can have on society.

“Empowering the state through “morals legislation” to regulate conduct always carries the risk of overreaching, setting a bad precedent, and creating governing powers that could be used later be used against Christians.” – Paul Miller

It is crucial to recognize that many of the historical abuses associated with Christianity were driven not by its core teachings, but by individuals seeking to expand their own empires and justify their actions through religion. In contrast, genuine Christian doctrine has often led to some of the greatest achievements in world history. By learning from the past, we can better understand the delicate balance required to harness the positive influences of religion while guarding against its potential for misuse.

Concerns

As we delve into the complexities of Christian nationalism, it’s essential to approach this topic with a thoughtful and open mind. The blending of religious fervor with national identity raises profound questions about faith, governance, and the nature of Christ’s Kingdom. This exploration is not merely academic; it challenges us to reflect on our beliefs, our patriotism, and our understanding of true Christian doctrine. I invite you to join me in wrestling with these ideas, examining the historical precedents and contemporary implications of Christian nationalism. Consider the following concerns and weigh them against your own perspectives. Through this process, I hope we can arrive at a deeper understanding of what it means to faithfully navigate our dual identities as believers and citizens.

1.) Conflating Christ’s Kingdom with a Nation

The paradox of Christian nationalism lies in its attempt to fuse the transient with the eternal. Christ is the head of a Kingdom that is not of this world, a realm that will ultimately prevail when all human institutions fade away. This idea was poignantly captured by Abraham Lincoln when he referred to Americans as “his almost chosen people.” America, with its self-reflective creed and Declaration of Independence, has a unique role in world history, but it is not the new Israel. Recognizing America’s unique role does not need to be idolatrous; it can simply be an acknowledgment of its historical impact and ideals.

“…Christianity is not an ethnic religion. Christianity is a global religion, not the religious expression of an ethnic identity.” – N. T. Wright

Aligning Christianity with national identity often leads to racial and ethnic superiority complexes. This fusion of religion and ethnicity fosters discrimination and social division. For instance, in Malaysia and Thailand, the dominant religious groups align closely with the majority ethnic groups, marginalizing minorities. This is antithetical to Christianity’s universal message, which transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries​​.

The true Church and the Kingdom of Heaven have one head, Jesus Christ, and are universal, composed of people from every nation, tribe, and tongue. As N.T. Wright aptly puts it, “Christianity is not an ethnic religion. Christianity is a global religion, not the religious expression of an ethnic identity.” The church breaks down class systems and ethnic divisions, creating a community where God’s people come from every corner of the world. In this light, Christian nationalism, which often requires state interference in religion and promotes ethnic homogeneity, poses a significant threat to the multi-ethnic and universal nature of the global Church.

“The church breaks down the classes, casts systems and ethnic divisions so that God’s people are those from every tribe, tongue, ethnic group and nation. Christian nationalism, requiring state interference in religion and ethnic homogeneity, is a threat to the multi-ethnic nature of the global church.” – N. T. Wright

2.) Patriotism and Qualified Love for Country

“A qualified patriotism is in order for the common good given the good of the American Creed and in the providence of God.” – Douglas Groothuis

Patriotism is vital for a participatory government; civic engagement is essential for the health and function of a democracy. However, this patriotism should be qualified and ordered towards the common good. Christianity has undeniably brought numerous benefits to society, such as advancements in science, the establishment of hospitals, and the development of human rights. However, it has also been misused by individuals seeking to further their own agendas. Dictators and politicians have often employed religious language to manipulate public opinion and consolidate power. For instance, Adolf Hitler, who privately despised Christianity for its perceived weakness, often used Christian terminology to pander to the German people.

“Political leaders end up pretending to be religious merely to win the favor of their constituents. Christianity is used to justify unchristian policies and actions related to wars, immigration, income inequality, healthcare, and a myriad other issues.” – N. T. Wright

A balance must be struck, acknowledging the profound influence of Judeo-Christian ethics without endorsing a nationalist agenda. We cannot let our love for our country blind us to injustice or compel us to compromise our Christian virtues. Dictators and politicians may pursue power and justify their actions with Christian language to appease the masses, hoping we will turn a blind eye to their inexcusable behavior. For example, in Russia today, there is an unholy alliance between President Vladimir Putin and Patriarch Kirill of the Orthodox Church. Together, they justify the invasion of Ukraine under the guise of religious and nationalistic rhetoric. This unholy alliance has even garnered support from Western Christian nationalists who see Putin as a defender of traditional Christian values against Western secularism.

“Moreover, using religion to manufacture social and ethnic homogeneity is doomed to give section to prejudice and to weaponize religion in the hands of wicked actors.”  – N. T. Wright

Christian nationalism can become toxic when it elevates the nation above moral law and exempts it from scrutiny. This is idolatrous and unbiblical. Nationalism’s toxicity is further compounded when political leaders are placed above moral reproach, seen as embodiments of the nation itself. This contradicts biblical principles, such as those expressed in Psalm 94:20, which questions the alliance with wicked rulers who frame injustice by statute.

While we can and should love our country, our primary loyalty must be to God. Christ commands us to love God and love our neighbor, exemplifying this by loving someone from another people group. We cannot look the other way when our country is in the wrong; we must confront it. Our Christian duty is to uphold justice and truth, ensuring that our patriotism aligns with our faith and moral convictions.

Political leaders often feign religiosity to gain support, leading to policies that may contradict Christian ethics. This was evident in the justification of the Iraq War, where religious rhetoric was deeply intertwined with political motivations. Such manipulations mislead Christians into believing that their political leaders’ actions align with Christian doctrine, even when they do not. It is important to note that Christian nationalism is not confined to the United States; it manifests globally with significant variations. In Russia, for instance, the alliance between the Kremlin and the Russian Orthodox Church exemplifies a form of Caesaropapism. This unholy alliance has even garnered support from Western Christian nationalists who see Putin as a defender of traditional Christian values against Western secularism. Such global alliances reveal the deep entanglements and widespread influence of Christian nationalist ideology​​.

3.) The Pitfalls of Creating Nominal Christians through Compulsory Christianity

Christian nationalism is fundamentally misguided, as it fosters the creation of nominal Christians—those who identify as Christians in name only, without embodying the genuine faith and values of Christianity. This superficial allegiance often results in individuals with the worst moral records, as studies have shown. The ethical dilemmas posed by Christian nationalism are profound, promoting an outward display of patriotism rather than cultivating sincere faith.

“Most importantly, Christian nationalism includes specific policy prescriptions that it claims are biblical but are, at best, extrapolations from biblical principles and, at worst, contradictory to them.” – Paul Miller

Nancy Pearcey explores the concept of nominal Christianity in her book “The Toxic War on Masculinity,” highlighting the significant differences between nominal and devoted Christians. Drawing on the work of sociologist W. Bradford Wilcox, Pearcey points out that nominal Christians—those who profess Christianity without deep commitment—tend to exhibit worse moral behavior than both their devoted Christian and non-Christian counterparts. For example, devoted Christian husbands have the lowest rates of divorce and abuse and report the highest levels of marital satisfaction. In stark contrast, nominal Christian men have the highest rates of abuse and divorce and the least satisfied wives of all groups. This is a small glimpse into the detrimental impact that nominal Christianity can have on society.

N. T. Wright succinctly captures the danger of Christian nationalism, stating, “When we warn of the evils of Christian nationalism, we are warning of the danger of the government trying to enforce Christian hegemony combined with civil religion (that is an outward and merely cultural version of Christianity).” This form of enforced religiosity leads to a shallow, superficial Christianity rather than fostering sincere faith and deep discipleship.

“Nationalism’s toxicity increases when it deems any political leader as the apotheosis of America (or Americanism) and, thereby, exempt from any moral scrutiny and above the law.” – Douglas Groothuis

Compulsory Christianity fundamentally violates the doctrine of love. Love, by its very nature, must be freely given and cannot be coerced. God does not seek blind obedience to rules but rather a willing, heartfelt love offering. The essence of Christianity is rooted in voluntary love and devotion, not in forced compliance. As N. T. Wright eloquently states, “It leads to a superficial Christianity rather than to sincere faith and deep discipleship.”

In summary, Christian nationalism’s push for a compulsory form of Christianity results in nominal Christians who lack genuine faith and moral integrity. This not only undermines the true essence of Christianity but also poses significant ethical and societal risks. True Christian faith cannot be mandated by the state; it must be a personal, voluntary journey of love and commitment to God and His teachings.

4. The Threat of Christian Nationalism to Human Rights

Christian nationalism poses a significant threat to human rights, particularly for individuals of other religions or no religion at all. It also adversely impacts Christians of other denominations, often leading to sectarian violence. History is replete with examples of Christians engaging in bloody conflicts over doctrinal differences, underscoring the dangers inherent in government mandated religious hegemony.

“Christian nationalism does not lend itself to a tolerant society since it diminishes the rights of the people of other religions or no religion.”  – N. T. Wright

Christian nationalism undermines religious pluralism and fosters an environment where dissent is equated with treason or blasphemy. This conflation of religious and political authority can lead to disastrous consequences. For instance, the U.S. Senate’s support for the Iraq War was influenced by a messianic portrayal of leaders, highlighting how religious rhetoric can be manipulated to justify foreign policies that contradict Christian ethics. The Scriptures caution against the amalgamation of religious and political authority, warning that those who assume Christ’s role as both King and High Priest are antichrist​​.

The hegemony of Christian values should be confined to the Christian community. Imposing these values through authoritarian means on a diverse society is misguided. God grants humanity the freedom to walk away from Him, exemplifying a libertarian attitude toward belief and behavior. As Christians in a nation, our efforts should be directed toward the common good without coercing others into our beliefs. Attempts to enforce Christian values on a national scale risk diminishing the rights of individuals, fostering intolerance, and undermining the principles of religious liberty.

“Religious liberty thus protects Christians from other Christians.”  – N. T. Wright

Christian nationalism threatens human rights by promoting an environment of intolerance and diminishing religious liberty. It undermines the principles of a pluralistic society and can lead to policies that contradict the core tenets of Christianity. Christians must recognize the dangers of conflating their faith with national identity and strive to uphold justice and compassion for all, regardless of religious affiliation.

5. The Dangers of Government Interference in Religion

When the state mandates religion, history shows a pattern of abuses and atrocities committed both in the name of and against religion. Government interference in religious matters can lead to severe consequences, including the suppression of dissent and the imposition of doctrines that may be antithetical to biblical teachings.

“Another deficiency of Christian nationalism is that it leads government to try to regulate religion.” – N. T. Wright

One of the key issues with government-mandated religion is the volatility of the political climate, which can result in frequent and dramatic shifts in religious policy. When political leadership changes, the state-sanctioned religious doctrine often changes as well. This dynamic can lead to the outlawing of dissent from the state’s religious position, transforming religious practice into an instrument of state control rather than a genuine expression of faith.

This phenomenon results in an authoritarian religion that serves the needs of the state rather than fostering a true devotion to God. When the state begins to dictate religious practice, the core principles of faith are compromised, leading to a hollow, state-serving form of religion.

“Love of country becomes noxious, unbiblical, and even un-American when it exalts America above the moral law, when it ignores, excuses, or glosses over America’s faults, and when it exempts America from the scrutiny of “the laws of nature and nature’s God.” – Douglas Groothuis

N.T. Wright emphasizes the importance of maintaining a degree of secularity to ensure religious freedom: “In the diverse and pluralistic society, governments would be wise neither to privilege one religion, nor to punish people over their religion. Religion is at its most free when government does not interfere with religion or try to adjudicate in matters of religion. Thus, a certain degree of secularity—by which we mean preventing theocracy, enabling the free exercise of religion, and permitting liberty of conscience in religion—is far better than Christian nationalism.”

Government interference in religion leads to the distortion of religious practice, the suppression of dissent, and the imposition of state-serving doctrines. A pluralistic and diverse society functions best when the government allows for the free exercise of religion without interference, ensuring that religious practice remains a matter of personal conscience and devotion rather than a tool of state control.

Conclusion

Christian nationalism poses a multifaceted threat to both democratic principles and the integrity of religious faith. By conflating national identity with religious devotion, it undermines religious liberty, promotes ethnic superiority, invites abuses by self-seeking power hungry politicians, and fosters social division. The historical precedents and contemporary examples demonstrate the need for a clear separation between church and state to preserve both civic and religious freedoms. Albeit not necessarily the hard separation proposed by many progressives. As followers of Christ, we must resist the temptation to seek political power under the guise of religious authority and instead focus on the universal and inclusive message of the Gospel.

As of a 2023 survey, 38% of Latter-day Saints were found to be more inclined toward Christian nationalism than the general population.

Most importantly, “Christian nationalism” inherently conflicts with the fundamental nature of Christ’s Kingdom. While acknowledging the historical influence of Christianity on Western society, we must avoid conflating the Kingdom of God with any earthly nation. As Francis Schaeffer wisely stated, “We should not wrap our Christianity in our national flag.” Recognizing the transient nature of all earthly governments, we must strive for a balanced perspective that honors both our faith and our civic responsibilities.

Reflection

1. How can Christians balance their religious convictions with the need to support a pluralistic and democratic society?
2. What lessons can be drawn from historical examples of Christian nationalism to prevent similar outcomes in contemporary politics?
3. In what ways can religious leaders promote genuine faith without aligning too closely with political power?

Resources

• Nationalism: Pro and Con By Douglas Groothuis, March 27, 2024
• Jesus and the Powers: Christian Political Witness in an Age of Totalitarian Terror and Dysfunctional Democracies, by N. T. Wright, 
• The Gospel Destroys Christian Nationalism w/ NT Wright https://youtu.be/6rywufA9uZM?si=EhdvejCDBwpX9Izf
• Estonian Legislative Body Designates Russian Orthodox Church as a Proponent of Russian Military Offensive, by Ella Bennet
• Four Ways of Looking at Christian Nationalism by Ross Douthat, March 1, 2024
• What Is Christian Nationalism, Exactly? By David French, Feb. 25, 2024
• Whose Version of Christian Nationalism Will Win in 2024? By Michelle Goldberg, May 15, 2023
• The Religious Roots of a New Progressive Era, Welcome to the post-Protestant Reformation. By Ross Douthat, July 7, 2020
• What Is Christian Nationalism? An explainer on how the belief differs from other forms of nationalism, patriotism, and Christianity. By Paul D. Miller, 2-3-2021,
• Christian Nationalism Is Worse Than You Think. Millions of Americans believe in this political ideology. What church leaders need to know—and how they can help those under its influence. By Morgan Lee, 1-13-2021
• N.T. Wright on Politics, Jesus, and the Powers, by The Reconstructionist https://youtu.be/FW0P-WrhSYU?si=VtO0B37E9M8zBcwx
• Hot-button words trigger conservatives and liberals differently By Yasmin Anwar
• 29% of Americans and 38% of Latter-day Saints are Christian nationalists. By Yonat Shimron, The Salt Lake Tribune
• Quest for the Presidency—and a Kingdom in the West, BYU
• The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes by Nancy Pearcey
• The Crisis of American Christianity, Viewed From Great Britain. The theologian N. T. Wright is unfazed by the faith’s politicization in the U.S. By Emma Green, Dec. 1 2019