Leaders Promote Christian Nationalism While Others Deny Its Existence
A growing number of evangelical leaders and conservative politicians are openly embracing Christian nationalist rhetoric. Figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and former gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano have publicly rejected the separation of church and state, calling for a reclaiming of America as a Christian nation. At the same time, others within the Religious Right claim Christian nationalism is a fictional label used by liberals to silence Christians. This contradiction reflects an internal conflict over how faith should interact with public life and American identity.
Events and Speeches Stir Controversy
At a recent Family Research Council event, former Rep. Michele Bachmann accused the Left of persecuting Christians by opposing Christian nationalism. This stance was echoed by others who portrayed critiques of Christian nationalism as attacks on biblical values. Critics argue that this rhetoric distorts Christian teachings and dangerously fuses faith with political power. President Joe Biden’s denunciation of Christian nationalism was shown as supposed evidence of hostility toward faith.
Subtle Forms of Nationalism Remain Pervasive
Christian leaders warn that Christian nationalism isn’t always blatant. Historian Jemar Tisby notes it exists on a continuum, with quieter, more insidious forms infiltrating churches and public discourse. This makes it harder to identify and reject, especially for those who see their beliefs as under threat in a secular society. The subtler forms often involve unexamined assumptions about America’s divine status and Christian superiority, leading to exclusionary attitudes cloaked in religious language.
Historical Myths Fuel Modern Nationalism
Scholars like Richard T. Hughes trace Christian nationalism back to enduring myths—that the U.S. is both a Christian and a chosen nation. These ideas, deeply embedded in American culture, have been used to justify colonization, slavery, and exclusion. Polling shows that many Americans still believe the U.S. has a divine role in history. These beliefs can serve as on-ramps into more extreme ideologies that view religious pluralism and cultural diversity as threats.
Call to Reject Heresy and Embrace Inclusive Faith
Faith leaders call on Christians to reject all forms of Christian nationalism as heresy. They emphasize Jesus’ teachings on humility, inclusion, and nonviolence as a stark contrast to nationalist ideology. Groups like Christians Against Christian Nationalism provide resources to help churches engage in dialogue and discipleship rooted in love, rather than fear. True discipleship, they argue, involves embracing the radical welcome and equality taught by Jesus and the early church.
Source:
Do We Dare To Disciple People Out of Christian Nationalism?
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