CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM

In recent months I have received several articles and comments on the subject of Christian nationalism.  There are those who seem to perceive it as a severe threat to America democracy.  I believe these fears are very much overblown.

What is Christian nationalism?  Most American Christians are patriotic citizens.  They believe that God has blessed our nation, and they tend to think that these blessings are due in large part to our faithfulness.  They believe we abandon that faith, if we turn away from God, we will lose his favor. These are the same thoughts expressed in the book of Deuteronomy about the nation of Israel.

“And it shall come about, if you ever forget the Lord your God and follow other gods and serve and worship them, I testify against you today that you will certainly perish. ²⁰ Like the nations that the Lord eliminates from you, so you shall perish, because you would not listen to the voice of the Lord your God.”

As Christians, how do we fight for our faith?

As many frequently emphasize, Jesus stated very clearly that his kingdom is not of this world.  There is no way that any government of men can substitute for God.  Those foolish people who worship the nation or attempt to establish a theocratic state are in for an unpleasant surprise.  They will learn that all leaders eventually disappoint us, and every nation will someday fade away – even our beloved America. 

In the meantime, however, I believe that it is well for all Christians to become engaged in the public square and to champion Judeo-Christian values.  What is the alternative? Should we simply throw up our hands as the forces of evil take over the government, the media, and the schools and attempt to spread a form of godless, nihilistic hedonism?  No! We must proclaim the truth.  We must defend our Christian beliefs and fight to maintain a free environment wherein we may teach our children the faith.

Most American Christians tend to believe that a strong America is vital to success in the currently raging battle between good and evil — the war between Judeo-Christian based western civilization and the nihilists.  This is the version of Christian nationalism to which I subscribe.    

 I realize, of course, that there are some who are labeled as Christian nationalists and hold extreme views.  They include American jingoists, members of the Ku Klux Klan, etc.  They provide editorial fodder for left-leaning commentators.   I believe, however, that these faux-Christian extremists are very few in numbers and pose no real threat to anyone save themselves.