Christian Nationalism |
Christianity in America has become more
American than Christ-like. |
“Congress shall pass no law respecting the establishment of religion.”
October 1, 2022:
The argument of the entire New Testament is that people cannot stand before God on the basis of ethnic, cultural, or even moral solidarity (Luke 3:8–9; Col. 2:16–22). No one stands justified even by the works of the law given by God, much less by the flesh of one’s temporal ethnic or national identity (Gal. 3:15–16). Each person must be joined to Christ by personal repentance and personal faith—not by living in a culture conformed to some external definition of “Christian values.” (ie,Christian Nationalism) Prominent Christian leaders who support such fringe movements as Christian Nationalism, and Seven Mountains Dominionism include David Barton, James Dobson, John Hagee, Bill Johnson, Lance Wallnau, and Paula White. Though I was aware of major issues with their brand of "Christianity" there are many notable politicians who have embraced it also include Michele Bachmann, Sam Brownback, Marjorie Greene Taylor, Lauren Boebert, Ted Cruz, Newt Gingrich, Mike Huckabee, Charlie Kirk, Sarah Palin, and Rick Perry. Boebert and Taylor-Green are all over the board with what they espouse at any given time. Today I learned that a part of the message of Christian Nationalism is being labeled, "The Seven Mountain Dominionism." Followers claim that the biblical base for the movement is derived from Revelation 17:1–18, wherein verse 9 reads, "And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains". The seven areas which the movement believe control society and which they seek to control are family, religion, education, media, entertainment, business, and government. They believe that their mission to take over the world is justified by Isaiah 2:2 "Now it shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established on the top of the mountains." Followers believe that by fulfilling the Seven Mountain Mandate they can bring about the end times. Media Matters: Ben Shapiro defends Christian nationalism 9.29.22
Vice: Gab Founder Andrew Torba Wants to Build a Christian Nationalist Internet
Arizona state sen. Wendy Rogers and Arizona state rep. Mark Finchem (who is running for secretary of state) touted their endorsements from Torba earlier this summer—Rogers even declared herself part of the “#GabCaucus.” Pennsylvania gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano was forced to disavow Torba following reports that he’d paid the Gab CEO thousands of dollars as a consultant. U.S. Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene, Paul Gosar and Matt Gaetz all maintain Gab accounts. Greene, who has identified herself as a Christian nationalist, previously paid at least nearly $40,000 in marketing costs to Gab. .9.29.22 Baptist News Global: Panelists sound urgent wake-up call about the threat of Christian nationalism
“I actually bristle a bit every time I hear the word ‘Christian nationalism’ because when I look at the folks who are leading this movement, I don’t see any Christianity.............I grew up Southern Baptist, in an evangelical household, and to me (Christian nationalists) don’t represent my faith. I don’t concede that label to them at all. What I do see is the very same racism we’ve always had. As far as the theology that undergirds it, if racism could be considered a theology, that’s what I would say it is.” -Tayhlor Coleman “Christian nationalism has its roots in the dangerous myth that we were founded as a Christian nation and, as a result, we enjoy special favor from God.....It will not be a government for the people and by the people, but a government for a particular people by a particular people....As a Baptist pastor, I oppose Christian nationalism because I love my faith and I love my neighbors of all different faiths and no faiths.” -Paul Raushenbush 9.29.22 
Christianity Today: Christian Nationalism Cannot Save the World
The ongoing near merger of the Russian Orthodox Church with Vladimir Putin’s authoritarian government made headlines when the church’s patriarch declared that dying in Ukraine as part of Putin’s invading army “washes away all sins.” At the same time, yet another populist leader employing Christian nationalist rhetoric won an electoral victory in Italy. With these in mind, perhaps the world’s evangelical Christians should remind ourselves that Christian nationalism can’t—and won’t—save the world. 9.29.22 Baptist News Global: Richard Land says he has ‘read about’ some Christian nationalists but he doesn’t know any
Richard Land insists he’s not a Christian nationalist. The former president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention and currently president emeritus at Southern Evangelical Seminary, wants to set the record straight: “I’m not a Christian nationalist. I’ve read about some, but I don’t know any.” He added: “I think it is a tactic by the Left and their toadies in the media to suppress patriotic beliefs and to suppress the idea that America is a unique country. They hate that, they don’t believe it themselves.” “It is a tactic by the Left and their toadies in the media to suppress patriotic beliefs and to suppress the idea that America is a unique country.” In Land’s imagination there are no Christian nationalists. It’s like arguing there are no Native Americans in our country. It’s like saying there’s no coffee at Starbucks. 9.29.22 |
- Project Blitz -
christian national sources: Christian Nationalist Organizations & People:
- A Biblical Worldview - ACLJ - Answers in Genesis (Ken Ham) - A Public Witness - Ark of Grace Ministries - Bedford County Patriots - Bible Answers for Daily Living - Blog & Magog - Caffienated Thoughts - Canada Free Press - Capstone Report - Charisma Magazine - Charisma Podcast Network - CBN - Citizens for Renewing America - CrossPolitic Studios - Daily Citizen - Decision Magazine - Ethics and Public Policy Center - Faith & Freedom Coalition - Faith Education & Commerce United Faith - Faithwire - Family Research Center - Freedom First Network - My Faith Votes - Pulpit & Pen - The Gatekeepers - The Stream - Truth & Liberty Coalition - US Pastor Council - - Perry Stone - Lance Wallnau - Wallbuilders - WND - 
Articles:
people:- Sean Feucht - Michael Flynn - Franklin Graham - Wayne Grudem - Scott Lively - Josh Mandel - Eric Metaxes - Lance Wallnau -
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Keith Giles: The Dangers of Christian Nationalism “Can you imagine what a difference it would make if Christians ran for every office at all levels across our country – city council, school board, Mayor? We need to get involved and take a stand for biblical values and morals before it’s too late. If you agree share this.” – Franklin Graham
This quote reflects the attitude of many Christians in America today. It reveals a deep desire to seize control the American Government – to take power over our enemies and to exert the necessary political pressure required to turn our nation back to God.
9.19.22
This quote reflects the attitude of many Christians in America today. It reveals a deep desire to seize control the American Government – to take power over our enemies and to exert the necessary political pressure required to turn our nation back to God.
9.19.22
Grid: A Christian nationalist wave is testing U.S. secularism, overlapping religion and politics like never before
The messaging is pervasive: “Christian Nationalist” T-shirts sold by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Fla.); Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis evoking biblical imagery during recent speeches in Florida; and the swath of Christian symbology championed by insurrectionists on Jan. 6, a response to former president Donald Trump’s continued political catering to the views of white, evangelical Christians.
The politicization of religion in the United States can be found, increasingly, in the highest places of power and persuasion. And — at least along party lines — there is also significant public support to drop the separation of church and state and just go with, quite literally, church. 9.28.22
The messaging is pervasive: “Christian Nationalist” T-shirts sold by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Fla.); Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis evoking biblical imagery during recent speeches in Florida; and the swath of Christian symbology championed by insurrectionists on Jan. 6, a response to former president Donald Trump’s continued political catering to the views of white, evangelical Christians.
The politicization of religion in the United States can be found, increasingly, in the highest places of power and persuasion. And — at least along party lines — there is also significant public support to drop the separation of church and state and just go with, quite literally, church. 9.28.22
Newsweek: We Can't Pray Away Christian Nationalism. We've Got to Vote it Out | Opinion
As ordained Christian ministers, we have been distressed to see Christian nationalism increasingly normalized. For years, we've heard leaders in the Religious Right pine for greater power and influence in our politics. Now, emboldened by the Trump years, whispers have turned to shouts. Alarmingly, the loudest voices praising Christian nationalism have been elected members of Congress. 9.28.22
As ordained Christian ministers, we have been distressed to see Christian nationalism increasingly normalized. For years, we've heard leaders in the Religious Right pine for greater power and influence in our politics. Now, emboldened by the Trump years, whispers have turned to shouts. Alarmingly, the loudest voices praising Christian nationalism have been elected members of Congress. 9.28.22
Springfield News Leader: Christian nationalist 'ReAwakening' rally, headlined by Michael Flynn, coming to Missouri
A rally headlined by retired Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn and an array of other speakers who tout ideals of Christian nationalism and conspiracy theories is coming to southwest Missouri later this year.
Scheduled to appear at the Freedom Encounter theater in Branson from Nov. 4-5, the event is one of more than a dozen rallies around the country featuring Flynn and his allies as part of what they call "The Great ReAwakening" tour. It is hosted by Clay Clark, an entrepreneur and podcast host based out of South Dakota. 9.28.22
A rally headlined by retired Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn and an array of other speakers who tout ideals of Christian nationalism and conspiracy theories is coming to southwest Missouri later this year.
Scheduled to appear at the Freedom Encounter theater in Branson from Nov. 4-5, the event is one of more than a dozen rallies around the country featuring Flynn and his allies as part of what they call "The Great ReAwakening" tour. It is hosted by Clay Clark, an entrepreneur and podcast host based out of South Dakota. 9.28.22
Politico: Most Republicans Support Declaring the United States a Christian Nation
Prominent Republican politicians have made the themes critical to their message to voters in the run up to the 2022 midterm elections. Doug Mastriano, the Republican nominee for governor in Pennsylvania, has argued that America is a Christian nation and that the separation of church and state is a “myth.” Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, the Georgia hard-liner, declared: “We need to be the party of nationalism and I’m a Christian, and I say it proudly, we should be Christian Nationalists.” Amid a backlash, she doubled down and announced she would start selling “Christian Nationalist” shirts. Now Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis seems to be flirting with Christian nationalist rhetoric, as well. 9.21.22
Prominent Republican politicians have made the themes critical to their message to voters in the run up to the 2022 midterm elections. Doug Mastriano, the Republican nominee for governor in Pennsylvania, has argued that America is a Christian nation and that the separation of church and state is a “myth.” Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, the Georgia hard-liner, declared: “We need to be the party of nationalism and I’m a Christian, and I say it proudly, we should be Christian Nationalists.” Amid a backlash, she doubled down and announced she would start selling “Christian Nationalist” shirts. Now Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis seems to be flirting with Christian nationalist rhetoric, as well. 9.21.22
Get Religion: DeSantis as 'culture warrior' or theocrat: Coverage depends on a newsroom's worldview The conclusion of the midterm elections in November will mark the unofficial start of the 2024 presidential race. It’s expected to be a very long two years of debates and primaries.
The media spotlight is already firmly on DeSantis, with some seeing him as a GOP option that is as dangerous as former President Donald Trump. What the governor says on the stump will reveal whether the electorate is interested in him as a potential White House occupant. How the mainstream press cover him could reveal itself to be a repeat of what we saw with Trump. 9.20.22
The media spotlight is already firmly on DeSantis, with some seeing him as a GOP option that is as dangerous as former President Donald Trump. What the governor says on the stump will reveal whether the electorate is interested in him as a potential White House occupant. How the mainstream press cover him could reveal itself to be a repeat of what we saw with Trump. 9.20.22
Baptist Times: A substitute religion?
This is a brief summary of Romans 13, especially verse 1: “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except what God has established”.
When we read those words we need to remember that the “governing authorities” in Paul’s world were anything but Jewish or Christian: no, they were pagans who operated by means of a cruel military machine and whose empire, the Roman empire, depended to a large extent on slavery.
9.13.22
This is a brief summary of Romans 13, especially verse 1: “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except what God has established”.
When we read those words we need to remember that the “governing authorities” in Paul’s world were anything but Jewish or Christian: no, they were pagans who operated by means of a cruel military machine and whose empire, the Roman empire, depended to a large extent on slavery.
9.13.22
Ask Dr Brown: Christian Influence in Society? Yes. A Theocracy? No.
Unfortunately, there are some Christian groups calling for this very thing (although, to be clear, when they talk about the possibility of bloodshed, they mean that their blood might be shed as martyrs for the cause). They are espousing an unhealthy Christian nationalism that merges Christian identity with national identity and wraps the gospel in the American flag. And the most extreme among them would even welcome a theocratic kingdom on earth where religious leaders dictate how the society is governed. 9.17.22
Unfortunately, there are some Christian groups calling for this very thing (although, to be clear, when they talk about the possibility of bloodshed, they mean that their blood might be shed as martyrs for the cause). They are espousing an unhealthy Christian nationalism that merges Christian identity with national identity and wraps the gospel in the American flag. And the most extreme among them would even welcome a theocratic kingdom on earth where religious leaders dictate how the society is governed. 9.17.22
Aug 24, 2022: Baptist News Global: Christian fragility, brittleness and white Christian nationalism
The Religious Right seems to be flexing its muscles these days. After all, they’ve overturned Roe v. Wade, openly embraced Christian nationalism, banned a whole slew of books, and told Florida’s teachers, “Don’t Say Gay.”
I don’t think all this is about strength, though. It’s about what I’ve called “Christian fragility.”
The Religious Right seems to be flexing its muscles these days. After all, they’ve overturned Roe v. Wade, openly embraced Christian nationalism, banned a whole slew of books, and told Florida’s teachers, “Don’t Say Gay.”
I don’t think all this is about strength, though. It’s about what I’ve called “Christian fragility.”
Christian nationalism has also been surging in the developing world, with tragic consequences. Nowhere has this been more evident than in the region of Central Africa — especially the countries of Uganda and Central African Republic. In Uganda, a particularly bizarre and vile form of Christian nationalism, fused with occultism, has given rise to one of the world’s most brutal terrorist organisations, the Lord’s Resistance Army, led by the infamous warlord Joseph Kony. The Lord’s Resistance Army achieved widespread notoriety for its gross violations of human rights, including murder, mutilation, mass abductions, trafficking of children, and use of child soldiers in its operations. Since its inception, the Lord’s Resistance Army has kidnapped more than 100,000 children. The objective of the group, as articulated by Kony, is an explicitly Christian nationalist one: for Uganda to be a country governed by the Ten Commandments. ABC Religion & Ethics: Why Christian nationalism is a global problem
I think church organizations that house repeatedly abusive public figures, especially those who’ve been accorded public trust, are responsible for answering the question of where their witness stops and the abuser’s begins. Otherwise, their organization merely serves as free political capital for bad faith actors. And if Christian nationalism is a violation of the core values of the churches themselves, they owe it to their congregants, including their famous ones, to say so loud and clear.
We’ve been here before. In Germany, the Barmen Declaration (1934) addressed the Führer Principle as heresy (as well as terror). In South Africa, the Belhar Confession (1982) addressed white supremacist ideology as sin. And more recently, the Council of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church issued an Episcopal Statement (2017) that invites “people who are committed to justice and righteousness, equality and truth” to help them in the effort “to thwart what are clearly demonic acts (of the Trump administration).”
These aren’t instances of churches suddenly becoming political. These are instances of communities of baptism demonstrating moral courage, making their witness clear in the face of state violence. Church organizations in America owe it to the American public to hold their publicly abusive congregants to standards of baseline moral seriousness, especially in our season of insurrection, whispers of civil war, and the strategic erosion of every form of common, public good. -Aug 19, 2022: When will their churches condemn the Christian nationalism of MAGA politicians?
We’ve been here before. In Germany, the Barmen Declaration (1934) addressed the Führer Principle as heresy (as well as terror). In South Africa, the Belhar Confession (1982) addressed white supremacist ideology as sin. And more recently, the Council of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church issued an Episcopal Statement (2017) that invites “people who are committed to justice and righteousness, equality and truth” to help them in the effort “to thwart what are clearly demonic acts (of the Trump administration).”
These aren’t instances of churches suddenly becoming political. These are instances of communities of baptism demonstrating moral courage, making their witness clear in the face of state violence. Church organizations in America owe it to the American public to hold their publicly abusive congregants to standards of baseline moral seriousness, especially in our season of insurrection, whispers of civil war, and the strategic erosion of every form of common, public good. -Aug 19, 2022: When will their churches condemn the Christian nationalism of MAGA politicians?
Messiah University Professor of History John Fea has been studying the larger political movement at play: Christian Nationalism. The movement, defined as the belief that America is defined by Christianty and that the government should keep it that way, has gained prominence in recent years. Scholars say it’s been around for a while.
Fea said Mastriano and other speakers used talking points from that movement.
“They believe that America is somehow sliding away from its Christian roots, its Christian founding, as they understand it,” Fea said.
Many of America’s Founding Fathers were actually deists, who believe they experience God through nature – rather than just religion. Fea said Christian Nationalism doesn’t always account for that.
“It’s built upon a faulty view of American history,” he said. “They tend to ignore how the country has changed over the course of 250 years.”
Using figures like William Penn to back up that political platform creates what Fea calls a “usable history.”
“If you can get the founding on your side…you can move the political dial in the direction you want to move it,” Fea said, “because you can show people that we’ve gone astray as a nation in some ways.” -Aug 19, 2022: Witf: Doug Mastriano and some Pa. GOP leaders think Christianity and government should be linked
Fea said Mastriano and other speakers used talking points from that movement.
“They believe that America is somehow sliding away from its Christian roots, its Christian founding, as they understand it,” Fea said.
Many of America’s Founding Fathers were actually deists, who believe they experience God through nature – rather than just religion. Fea said Christian Nationalism doesn’t always account for that.
“It’s built upon a faulty view of American history,” he said. “They tend to ignore how the country has changed over the course of 250 years.”
Using figures like William Penn to back up that political platform creates what Fea calls a “usable history.”
“If you can get the founding on your side…you can move the political dial in the direction you want to move it,” Fea said, “because you can show people that we’ve gone astray as a nation in some ways.” -Aug 19, 2022: Witf: Doug Mastriano and some Pa. GOP leaders think Christianity and government should be linked
Aug 12, 2022: The Batavian: As thousands gather for ReAwaken event, pastors across town speak out against Christian Nationalism
Christian Nationalism is a threat to freedom and the American way of life, a group of pastors told a small gathering in a parking lot behind the First Baptist Church in Batavia this morning, while across town about 3,000 people were gathered at Cornerstone Church for the ReAwaken America Tour.
Christian Nationalism is a threat to freedom and the American way of life, a group of pastors told a small gathering in a parking lot behind the First Baptist Church in Batavia this morning, while across town about 3,000 people were gathered at Cornerstone Church for the ReAwaken America Tour.
Those promoting Christian nationalism are not only showing their lack of faith in the power of God in their lives and the world, but are actually hurting the witness of Christianity to the power of God. They hurt others and the world by hiding God’s power in the many failures of Christians. A Christian shares concern for the nation with everyone of good will. The best preservative for a nation is justice in which everyone is treated equally and with dignity. That means equal access to the land, equal opportunities to education, and equal opportunities to vote. Justice also demands that governments be governed by the consent of the governed. This is the basic requirement of democracies. The task of Christians is not to control nations, but to advocate for justice in nations. --Rev. Dr. Robert L. Montgomery; Presbyterian minister
Every sane, rational person realizes that Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado is less than erudite, and she clearly shows this no more so than when she misstates what the Constitution says about religion. Just recently, she claimed that "the church should direct the government" and that she's "tired of all this church and state separation junk.” This absurdity coming from someone who supposedly swore an oath to uphold that same Constitution is patently dangerous.
Here is what several of the Founding Fathers actually had to say about religion and government.
Thomas Jefferson: "Christianity neither is, nor ever was, a part of the common law. In every country and in every age, the priest has been hostile to liberty."
John Adams: "The government of the United States is not in any sense founded on the Christian religion."
James Madison: "Religion and government both exist in greater purity the less they are mixed together."
And this from Thomas Paine, author of "Common Sense": "All national institutions of churches, whether Jewish, Christian or Turkish, appear to me as no other than human inventions set up to terrify and enslave mankind, and monopolize power and profit."
The dangerous rise of so-called "Christian nationalism" is anathema to everything our democracy is founded on and should be fought against with everything in our power.
-Chris Fox, Clermont; No Christian nationalism
Here is what several of the Founding Fathers actually had to say about religion and government.
Thomas Jefferson: "Christianity neither is, nor ever was, a part of the common law. In every country and in every age, the priest has been hostile to liberty."
John Adams: "The government of the United States is not in any sense founded on the Christian religion."
James Madison: "Religion and government both exist in greater purity the less they are mixed together."
And this from Thomas Paine, author of "Common Sense": "All national institutions of churches, whether Jewish, Christian or Turkish, appear to me as no other than human inventions set up to terrify and enslave mankind, and monopolize power and profit."
The dangerous rise of so-called "Christian nationalism" is anathema to everything our democracy is founded on and should be fought against with everything in our power.
-Chris Fox, Clermont; No Christian nationalism
Aug 15, 2022: The Hill: Juan Williams: The GOP’s sad embrace of Christian nationalism
“We’re not bending the knee to the two percent anymore,” said Andrew Torba, founder of the right-wing-friendly social platform Gab, referring to Jewish people in the United States.
Gab is characterized by CNN as “a haven for QAnon conspiracies, misinformation and antisemitic commentary.” The platform was paid a “consulting” fee by Doug Mastriano, the Republican running for governor in Pennsylvania.
Mastriano downplays his ties to Toba. He has said, “I reject anti-Semitism in any form”. But he has campaigned by pledging that “we are going to take our state back, my God will make it so.”
“We’re not bending the knee to the two percent anymore,” said Andrew Torba, founder of the right-wing-friendly social platform Gab, referring to Jewish people in the United States.
Gab is characterized by CNN as “a haven for QAnon conspiracies, misinformation and antisemitic commentary.” The platform was paid a “consulting” fee by Doug Mastriano, the Republican running for governor in Pennsylvania.
Mastriano downplays his ties to Toba. He has said, “I reject anti-Semitism in any form”. But he has campaigned by pledging that “we are going to take our state back, my God will make it so.”
Aug. 14, 2022: Daily Beast: I’m a Cradle Catholic. I Don’t Want Christian Nationalism in My Church.
There is no doubt that the trad-Cath movement is metastasizing and often dovetailing with Christian nationalism through the shared notion that “Western civilization” is at risk. In a 2014 speech at the Vatican, longtime trad-Cath Steve Bannon told attendees, “I believe the world, and particularly the Judeo-Christian West, is in a crisis.”
This fearmongering that “Western civilization” is under threat is a favorite talking point of Christian nationalists (not at all a new idea in America but one with a new set of spokespersons). The former GOP Rep. Steve King, an outspoken Christian and nationalist, was thrown off his committees after complaining to The New York Times, “white nationalist, white supremacist, Western civilization—how did that language become offensive?” Tucker Carlson, another Christian and nationalist has claimed the Black Lives Matter movement aims to “challenge Western civilization” and that “Western civilization is [George Soros’] target.”
Rep. Marjorie Taylor-Greene—who rose to power and infamy as a QAnon-supporting GOP firebrand—has spent the past few months telling audiences that she’s a “Christian nationalist.” MTG, a megachurch-goer, is emblematic of the Christian nationalist movement which has been building in this country for decades, but coalesced behind Trump.
This vein of Christian nationalism was on display during the Jan. 6 Capitol attack—after storming onto the Senate floor, one of the rioters shouted “Jesus Christ, we invoke your name!” Moments later the group removed their hats as another prayed through a bullhorn: “Thank you heavenly father for being the inspiration needed…to allow us to send a message to all the tyrants, the communists and the globalists that this is our nation, not theirs.” The Jesus Christ invoked by the would-be insurrectionists is the Jesus of the Christian nationalists.
There is no doubt that the trad-Cath movement is metastasizing and often dovetailing with Christian nationalism through the shared notion that “Western civilization” is at risk. In a 2014 speech at the Vatican, longtime trad-Cath Steve Bannon told attendees, “I believe the world, and particularly the Judeo-Christian West, is in a crisis.”
This fearmongering that “Western civilization” is under threat is a favorite talking point of Christian nationalists (not at all a new idea in America but one with a new set of spokespersons). The former GOP Rep. Steve King, an outspoken Christian and nationalist, was thrown off his committees after complaining to The New York Times, “white nationalist, white supremacist, Western civilization—how did that language become offensive?” Tucker Carlson, another Christian and nationalist has claimed the Black Lives Matter movement aims to “challenge Western civilization” and that “Western civilization is [George Soros’] target.”
Rep. Marjorie Taylor-Greene—who rose to power and infamy as a QAnon-supporting GOP firebrand—has spent the past few months telling audiences that she’s a “Christian nationalist.” MTG, a megachurch-goer, is emblematic of the Christian nationalist movement which has been building in this country for decades, but coalesced behind Trump.
This vein of Christian nationalism was on display during the Jan. 6 Capitol attack—after storming onto the Senate floor, one of the rioters shouted “Jesus Christ, we invoke your name!” Moments later the group removed their hats as another prayed through a bullhorn: “Thank you heavenly father for being the inspiration needed…to allow us to send a message to all the tyrants, the communists and the globalists that this is our nation, not theirs.” The Jesus Christ invoked by the would-be insurrectionists is the Jesus of the Christian nationalists.
Aug 13, 2022: Raw Story: Far-right platform Gab veers into overt antisemitism — and only some Republicans back away
On Friday morning, Andrew Torba, founder of the far-right social media platform Gab, issued a seeming ultimatum to the Republican Party: "Gab is becoming the litmus test for candidates. Many have passed the test and doubled down. Some have lied and disavowed to gain points with the enemy. A truly great service to the American people to see who has a spine and who does not."
On Friday morning, Andrew Torba, founder of the far-right social media platform Gab, issued a seeming ultimatum to the Republican Party: "Gab is becoming the litmus test for candidates. Many have passed the test and doubled down. Some have lied and disavowed to gain points with the enemy. A truly great service to the American people to see who has a spine and who does not."
Aug 12, 2022: Word and Way: Religious Leaders Protest Michael Flynn’s Christian Nationalism
On Friday, a group of religious leaders met outside First Baptist Church in Batavia, New York, to denounce the arrival of General Michael Flynn’s ReAwaken America Tour. Hosted by Flynn, Eric Trump, Clay Clark, Mike Lindell, and other notable conservative figures, the tour arrived earlier that day at nearby Cornerstone Church for a two-day event.
What made this different from previous events put on by the group Faithful America is that the leaders speaking out against Christian nationalism came from both within and outside of Christianity. Local Presbyterian pastor Roula Alkhouri served as the moderator for Rev. Nathan Empsall from Faithful America, Rev. Dr. Shiela Campbell McCullough from the New York State Council of Churches, Rabbi Drorah Setel from Temple Emanu-El, pastor Doug Pagitt from Vote Common Good, Sareer Fazili from Pittsford Youth Services and the Barakah Muslim Charity, and Rev. Jennifer Butler from Faith in Public Life.
On Friday, a group of religious leaders met outside First Baptist Church in Batavia, New York, to denounce the arrival of General Michael Flynn’s ReAwaken America Tour. Hosted by Flynn, Eric Trump, Clay Clark, Mike Lindell, and other notable conservative figures, the tour arrived earlier that day at nearby Cornerstone Church for a two-day event.
What made this different from previous events put on by the group Faithful America is that the leaders speaking out against Christian nationalism came from both within and outside of Christianity. Local Presbyterian pastor Roula Alkhouri served as the moderator for Rev. Nathan Empsall from Faithful America, Rev. Dr. Shiela Campbell McCullough from the New York State Council of Churches, Rabbi Drorah Setel from Temple Emanu-El, pastor Doug Pagitt from Vote Common Good, Sareer Fazili from Pittsford Youth Services and the Barakah Muslim Charity, and Rev. Jennifer Butler from Faith in Public Life.
Are you a Christian nationalist simply because you believe that God raised up America for special purposes in order to bless and help the world? No.
But you are a Christian nationalist if you confuse loyalty to your country with loyalty to the kingdom of God.
You are a Christian nationalist if you wrap the gospel in an American flag.
You are a Christian nationalist if you 'merge Christian and American identities.'"
That’s why recent comments by GAB CEO Andrew Torba have raised eyebrows and confirmed the worst suspicions about Christian nationalism, being quoted by outlets such as the Jerusalem Post and further fueling the fires of far-left websites such as Right Wing Watch.
As Torba said with reference to a Republican candidate he backed, “We are going to build a coalition of Christian nationalists, of Christians, of Christian candidates, at the state, local and federal levels and we’re going to take this country back for the glory of God.”
And, what exactly, will this look like? What will it mean to “take the country back for the glory of God,” a sentiment that, in itself, can sound very positive to many Christians?
Torba explained, “We don’t want people who are atheists. We don’t want people who are Jewish. We don’t want people who are, you know, nonbelievers, agnostic, whatever. This is an explicitly Christian movement because this is an explicitly Christian country. We’re not saying we’re going to deport all these people or whatever. You’re free to stay here. You’re not going to be forced to convert or anything like this because that’s not biblical whatsoever. But you’re going to enjoy the fruits of living in a Christian society under Christian laws and under a Christian culture and you can thank us later.”
He also said, “You degenerate pagans and atheists and non-believers went way too far with the COVID nonsense, with shutting down our churches and forcing our kids to be masked, and forcing us to get vaccinated with some mystery goop in order to keep our jobs and provide for our families. You pushed us too far, and now we’re going to take dominion of this country, of our culture, of news, of entertainment, of technology, of education, of everything for the glory of Jesus Christ, our king. It’s just that simple.” Aug 13, 2022: Michael Brown: Is Christian Nationalism Dangerous?
But you are a Christian nationalist if you confuse loyalty to your country with loyalty to the kingdom of God.
You are a Christian nationalist if you wrap the gospel in an American flag.
You are a Christian nationalist if you 'merge Christian and American identities.'"
That’s why recent comments by GAB CEO Andrew Torba have raised eyebrows and confirmed the worst suspicions about Christian nationalism, being quoted by outlets such as the Jerusalem Post and further fueling the fires of far-left websites such as Right Wing Watch.
As Torba said with reference to a Republican candidate he backed, “We are going to build a coalition of Christian nationalists, of Christians, of Christian candidates, at the state, local and federal levels and we’re going to take this country back for the glory of God.”
And, what exactly, will this look like? What will it mean to “take the country back for the glory of God,” a sentiment that, in itself, can sound very positive to many Christians?
Torba explained, “We don’t want people who are atheists. We don’t want people who are Jewish. We don’t want people who are, you know, nonbelievers, agnostic, whatever. This is an explicitly Christian movement because this is an explicitly Christian country. We’re not saying we’re going to deport all these people or whatever. You’re free to stay here. You’re not going to be forced to convert or anything like this because that’s not biblical whatsoever. But you’re going to enjoy the fruits of living in a Christian society under Christian laws and under a Christian culture and you can thank us later.”
He also said, “You degenerate pagans and atheists and non-believers went way too far with the COVID nonsense, with shutting down our churches and forcing our kids to be masked, and forcing us to get vaccinated with some mystery goop in order to keep our jobs and provide for our families. You pushed us too far, and now we’re going to take dominion of this country, of our culture, of news, of entertainment, of technology, of education, of everything for the glory of Jesus Christ, our king. It’s just that simple.” Aug 13, 2022: Michael Brown: Is Christian Nationalism Dangerous?
Aug 13, 2022: Livingston County News: Counter-message: Faith leaders speak against Christian nationalism at Batavia protest
Executive Director Rev. Nathan Empsall of Faithful America said Christian nationalism is defined by researchers and academics as a cultural framework and political ideology.
“Christian nationalism is the merging of the national American identity with a religious identity, making them one and the same,” said Empsall, explaining Christian nationalists believe you aren’t a true American unless you are a conservative Christian. “The hallmark phrase of Christian nationalism is that America is a Christian nation. That’s not true of course. We’re a pluralistic nation — we are all free to worship.”
Empsall said the ReAwaken America Tour is the worst example of Christian nationalism since the Jan. 6 insurrection. He said the goal of Christian nationalism isn’t to follow Jesus — it’s to seize political power at any cost, no matter who you hurt along the way.
“It’s a typical authoritarian movement in this regard,” Empsall said. “Its goal is power for its followers, power for the ‘chosen nation’ the conservative Christians, hence one religion. How far are they willing to go to seize and hold that power? We saw this on Jan. 6.”
Executive Director Rev. Nathan Empsall of Faithful America said Christian nationalism is defined by researchers and academics as a cultural framework and political ideology.
“Christian nationalism is the merging of the national American identity with a religious identity, making them one and the same,” said Empsall, explaining Christian nationalists believe you aren’t a true American unless you are a conservative Christian. “The hallmark phrase of Christian nationalism is that America is a Christian nation. That’s not true of course. We’re a pluralistic nation — we are all free to worship.”
Empsall said the ReAwaken America Tour is the worst example of Christian nationalism since the Jan. 6 insurrection. He said the goal of Christian nationalism isn’t to follow Jesus — it’s to seize political power at any cost, no matter who you hurt along the way.
“It’s a typical authoritarian movement in this regard,” Empsall said. “Its goal is power for its followers, power for the ‘chosen nation’ the conservative Christians, hence one religion. How far are they willing to go to seize and hold that power? We saw this on Jan. 6.”
White nationalism was thrust into the national spotlight, magnified when then-President Donald Trump was asked to comment on the white supremacist-initiated violence, and he infamously stated that there were "very fine people on both sides," referring to both the anti-racists and the White nationalists.
“That they existed was itself nothing new. What was new, however, was the GOP’s recognition of the nascent era of Trumpian conservatism as an opportunity to both cement and capitalize on those shared interests more concretely than anytime since the 1960s,” Rafi Schwartz recently wrote.
For many Americans, Charlottesville was the first encounter with the boldness and reality of white supremacists taking to the streets. And while Unite the Right didn’t actually unite the right it, coupled with the election of Donald Trump, accelerated the rise of right-wing terrorism as a major threat. Aug 11, 2022: Daily Kos: Five Years After Charlottesville, the White/Christian Nationalist Right is More Toxic Than Ever
“That they existed was itself nothing new. What was new, however, was the GOP’s recognition of the nascent era of Trumpian conservatism as an opportunity to both cement and capitalize on those shared interests more concretely than anytime since the 1960s,” Rafi Schwartz recently wrote.
For many Americans, Charlottesville was the first encounter with the boldness and reality of white supremacists taking to the streets. And while Unite the Right didn’t actually unite the right it, coupled with the election of Donald Trump, accelerated the rise of right-wing terrorism as a major threat. Aug 11, 2022: Daily Kos: Five Years After Charlottesville, the White/Christian Nationalist Right is More Toxic Than Ever
Aug 12, 2022; Crisis Magazine: Is Christian Nationalism An Existential Threat to the Republic?
At surface, “Christian Nationalism” is a term of relatively recent vintage that is a mash-up of two words that can have vastly different meanings. Depending on whom one asks, “Christian” can apply to beliefs of the “spiritual but not religious” as well as the Bishop of Rome.
Likewise, “Nationalism” can apply equally to beliefs of the patriot and the fascist. To the former, it is the ideal that nations should be a self-governing body of citizens with a set of cultural norms sustained by traditional liberal values like liberty, equality, and freedom. To the latter, it’s the exclusion from that ideal of certain people groups because of ethnicity, race, religion, or country of origin.
At surface, “Christian Nationalism” is a term of relatively recent vintage that is a mash-up of two words that can have vastly different meanings. Depending on whom one asks, “Christian” can apply to beliefs of the “spiritual but not religious” as well as the Bishop of Rome.
Likewise, “Nationalism” can apply equally to beliefs of the patriot and the fascist. To the former, it is the ideal that nations should be a self-governing body of citizens with a set of cultural norms sustained by traditional liberal values like liberty, equality, and freedom. To the latter, it’s the exclusion from that ideal of certain people groups because of ethnicity, race, religion, or country of origin.
Aug 12, 2022: Christian nationalists aren’t trying to escape conditions of oppression so they can freely live out their values in a society and culture that is not hostile to them. Rather, they are trying to impose their value system on others and make it the law of land, making other ways of life, cultural ways of being, illegal and punishable. For example, it’s not enough for themselves to be able to decide they don’t want an abortion; they have to outlaw abortion for everyone and deprive all women control over their bodies and reproductive health. It’s not enough for them to be able to practice their distorted brand of the Christian faith freely as they choose; they have to insist on its supremacy within U.S. culture, have it infuse the laws that apply to all, and devalue and even seek to ban the religious practices of others. It’s not enough for them to eschew same-sex love and marriage or define their gender identities in binary ways, they have to deny others the legal right to love and marry as they choose and to define their identities in non-binary ways. Politicusa: Tim Libretti: Opinion: How to Deal with Christian Nationalists? Let them Secede and Tyrannize Over Themselves
Politicians are increasingly promoting Christian nationalism. Politics reporter Ella Lee tells producer PJ Elliott what that is exactly and some of the history of ideology in American politics.
Ella Lee:
Christian nationalism is essentially this idea that America was founded by Christians as a Christian nation and that all of its institutions and all of its laws are based on Christianity. That's playing into American politics because a lot of, or several rather, conservative politicians have been using the term lately and convoluting it almost with the idea of just being a Christian, in general, and saying that anyone who is a Christian should be okay with being called a Christian nationalist. But those two ideas aren't really the same. Aug 10, 2022: USA Today: Trump huddles with House Republicans after FBI search, lack of Latina CEOs: 5 Things podcast
Ella Lee:
Christian nationalism is essentially this idea that America was founded by Christians as a Christian nation and that all of its institutions and all of its laws are based on Christianity. That's playing into American politics because a lot of, or several rather, conservative politicians have been using the term lately and convoluting it almost with the idea of just being a Christian, in general, and saying that anyone who is a Christian should be okay with being called a Christian nationalist. But those two ideas aren't really the same. Aug 10, 2022: USA Today: Trump huddles with House Republicans after FBI search, lack of Latina CEOs: 5 Things podcast
Christian nationalism is not about the Christ of Christianity, it is a political ideology about American identity, Christianity Today asserts. It is not drawn from the Bible but draws political theory from secular philosophy and their own view of history.
The initiatives to rewrite American history, scrubbing the stain of atrocities from the pages and presenting an aseptic version, purportedly to shield today’s students from offense and guilt, is borne out of Christian Nationalist ideology. Their quest is for power, not Bible principles to shape the character of America. August 10, 2022: Norman Franklin: The Confusing Image of Christianity
The initiatives to rewrite American history, scrubbing the stain of atrocities from the pages and presenting an aseptic version, purportedly to shield today’s students from offense and guilt, is borne out of Christian Nationalist ideology. Their quest is for power, not Bible principles to shape the character of America. August 10, 2022: Norman Franklin: The Confusing Image of Christianity
August 5, 2022: Texas Observer: FASCIST CIRCUS COMES TO CPAC TEXAS
Republican politicians joined Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán for speeches laced with antisemitism and overt Christian nationalism.
Republican politicians joined Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán for speeches laced with antisemitism and overt Christian nationalism.
Aug 6, 2022: Only Sky: GOP lawmaker falsely claims ‘Most Americans’ are Christian nationalists
During her appearance at the right-wing CPAC conference yesterday, conspiracy theorist Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene was asked about the phrase “Christian nationalist.” She insisted, falsely, that “most Americans” were Christian nationalists like her.
During her appearance at the right-wing CPAC conference yesterday, conspiracy theorist Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene was asked about the phrase “Christian nationalist.” She insisted, falsely, that “most Americans” were Christian nationalists like her.
Words of Founders, Baptists and Others about Church and State Early Baptists:
"An enforced uniformity of religion throughout a nation or civil state, confounds the civil and religious, denies the principles of Christianity and civility, and that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh."
--Roger Williams (founder of First Baptist Church in America), The Bloody Tenet of Persecution (1640).
"When they [the Church] have opened a gap in the hedge or wall of separation between the garden of the church and the wilderness of the world, God hath ever broke down the wall itself, removed the Candlestick, etc., and made His Garden a wilderness as it is this day. And that therefore if He will ever please to restore His garden and Paradise again, it must of necessity be walled in peculiarly unto Himself from the world, and all that be saved out of the world are to be transplanted out of the wilderness of the World."
--Roger Williams, "Mr. Cotton's Letter Lately Printed, Examined and Answered," The Complete Writings of Roger Williams, Vol. 1, 108 (1644).
"Religious matters are to be separated from the jurisdiction of the state, not because they are beneath the interests of the state but, quite to the contrary, because they are too high and holy and thus are beyond the competence of the state."
--Isaac Backus, colonial Baptist from New England, An Appeal to the Public for Religious Liberty (1773).
"The notion of a Christian commonwealth should be exploded forever. ... Government should protect every man in thinking and speaking freely, and see that one does not abuse another. The liberty I contend for is more than toleration. The very idea of toleration is despicable; it supposes that some have a pre-eminence above the rest to grant indulgence, whereas all should be equally free, Jews, Turks, Pagans and Christians." --John Leland, "A Chronicle of His Time in Virginia," as cited in Forrest Church, The Separation of Church and State, 92 (2004).
The Church ought to be regarded as "a complete republic of itself, not to be controlled by civil government..." --John Leland, colonial Baptist from Virginia, "Christocracy," The Writings of the Late Elder John Leland, 278 (cited in Rogers, Traditions of Church-State Separation:..., The Journal of Law & Politics, Vol. XVIII, no. 1, 277-321).
"Experience...has informed us that the fondness of magistrates to foster Christianity has done it more harm than all the persecutions ever did." --John Leland, quoted in Gaustad, A Disestablished Society: Origins of the First Amendment, vol. 11, A Journal of Church and State (1969), 414.
"These establishments metamorphose the church into a creature, and religion into a principle of state, which has a natural tendency to make men conclude that Bible religion is nothing but a trick of state."
-- John Leland, Right of Conscience Inalienable, and Therefore, Religious Opinions Not Cognizable By The Law.
"Truth disdains the aid of law for its defense--it will stand upon its own merits."
--John Leland, Right of Conscience Inalienable, and Therefore, Religious Opinions Not Cognizable By The Law.
"I esteem it above all things necessary to distinguish exactly the business of civil government from that of religion and to settle the just bounds that lie between the one and the other."
--John Locke, A Letter Concerning Toleration, 1689.
"Persecution is not an original feature in any religion; but is always the strongly marked feature of all...religions established by law. Take away the law-establishment, and every religion re-assumes its original benignity." --Thomas Paine, The Rights of Man, 1791.
The constitutional provision to ban a religious test for public office is "a provision the world would expect from you in the establishment of a System founded on Republican principles in an age so liberal and enlightened as the present."
--Charles Pinckney, delegate to the Constitutional Convention from South Carolina, quoted in Stokes and
Pfeffer, Church and State in the United States, 485.
"The rights of conscience are a peculiar delicacy and will little bear the gentlest touch of government's hand."
--Daniel Carroll, delegate from Maryland to the First Congress, 1 ANNALS OF CONG. 757-58 J. Gales ed., 1834 (August 15, 1789).
"[I]f I could now conceive that the general government might ever be so administered as to render the liberty of conscience insecure, I beg you will be persuaded, that no one would be more zealous than myself to establish effectual barriers against the horrors of spiritual tyranny, and every species of religious persecution. ...[E]very man, conducting himself as a good citizen, and being accountable to God alone for his religious opinions, ought to be protected in worshipping the Deity according to the dictates of his own conscience."
--George Washington, letter to the United Baptist Church's General Committee, May, 1789, cited in Forest Church, ed., The Separation of Church and State, 106.
“We should begin by setting conscience free. When all men of all religions…shall enjoy equal liberty, property, and an equal chance for honors and power…we may expect that improvements will be made in the human character and the state of society.”
--John Adams, Letter to Dr. Price, April 8, 1785.
“…the government of the United States is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion.” ---Treaty of Tripoli, 1797, ratified and signed by John Adams, cited in The Works of John Adams (Boston: Little, Brown & Co., 1856), volume IX, 636.
“I am for freedom of religion and against all maneuvers to bring about a legal ascendancy of one sect over another.” --President Thomas Jefferson, Letter to Elbridge Gerry, January 26, 1799.
“I contemplate with sovereign reverence the act of the Whole American people which declared that their legislature should ‘make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,’ thus building a wall of separation between Church & State.” --Thomas Jefferson, 1802 letter to Danbury Connecticut Baptist Association.
[T]o compel a man to furnish contributions of money for the propagation of opinions which he disbelieves and abhors, is sinful and tyrannical.”
--Thomas Jefferson, A bill for the Establishing of Religious Freedom.
“Certainly, no power to prescribe any religious exercise, or to assume authority in religious discipline, has been delegated to the General Government.”
--President Thomas Jefferson, Letter to the Rev. Samuel Miller, January 23, 1808.
“The Religion of every man must be left to the conviction and conscience of every man; and it is the right of every man to exercise it as these may dictate…It is the duty of everyman to render to the Creator such homage…as he believes to be acceptable to him. The duty is precedent, both in order of time and in degree of obligation, to the claims of Civil Society…We maintain therefore that in matters of Religion, no Man’s right is abridged by the institution of Civil Society and that Religion is wholly exempt from its cognizance.”
--James Madison, A Memorial and Remonstrance Against Religious Assessments, (1785).
“While we assert for ourselves a freedom to embrace, to profess and to observe the Religion which we believe to be of divine origin, we cannot deny an equal freedom to those whose minds have not yet yielded to the evidence which has convinced us.”
--James Madison, A Memorial and Remonstrance Against Religious Assessments, (1785).
“Because the establishment proposed by the Bill is not requisite for the support of the Christian Religion. To say that it is, is a contradiction to the Christian Religion itself, for every page of it disavows a dependence on the powers of this world…”
--James Madison, A Memorial and Remonstrance Against Religious Assessments, (1785).
“Whilst the number, the industry, and the morality of the Priesthood, & the devotion of the people have been manifestly increased by the total separation of the Church and the State.”
--James Madison, letter to Robert Walsh, 1819 in Gaillard Hunt, ed. The Writings of James Madison, v. VIII, 431-432.
“Religion flourishes in greater purity without than with the aid of government.”
--President James Madison, Letter to Edward Livingston, July 10, 1822.
“The amendment was discussed, and rejected, the opponents of the amendment having turned the feeling as well as judgment of the House [against] it by successfully contending that the better proof of reverence for that holy name [would] be not to profane it by making it a topic of legal discussion.”
--James Madison, on a provision to introduce Jesus Christ into a bill, undated memorandum, cited in Forrest Church, ed., The Separation of Church and State, 136.
“Every new and successful example of a perfect separation between ecclesiastical and civil matters is of importance.”
--President James Madison, Letter to Edward Livingston, July 10, 1822.
“When religion is good, I conceive it will support itself; and when it does not support itself, and God does not take care to support it so that its professors are obliged to call for the help of the civil power, it is a sign, I apprehend, of its being a bad one.”
--Benjamin Franklin, cited in Anson Phelps Stokes, Church and State in the United States (New York: Harper, 1950), vol. I, 298.
“Civil liberty can be established on no foundation of human reason which will not at the same time demonstrate the right to religious freedom.”
--President John Quincy Adams, Letter to Richard Anderson, May 27, 1823.
Various Presidential Affirmations of Religious Liberty
“It is my firm belief that there should be separation of church and state as we understand it in the United States—that is, that both church and state should be free to operate, without interference from each other in their respective areas of jurisdiction. We live in a liberal, democratic society which embraces wide varieties of belief and disbelief. There is no doubt in my mind that the pluralism which has developed under our Constitution, providing as it does a framework within which diverse opinions can exist side by side and by their interaction enrich the whole, is the most ideal system yet devised by man. I cannot conceive of a set of circumstances which would lead me to a different conclusion.”
--John F. Kennedy, in a letter to Glenn L. Archer, February 23, 1959.
“I believe in the American tradition of separation of church and state which is expressed in the First Amendment to the Constitution. By my office—and by personal conviction—I am sworn to uphold that tradition.”
--President Lyndon B. Johnson, interview, Baptist Standard, October 1964.
“The divorce between church and state should be absolute.”
--President James Garfield, quoted in Paul Blanshard, God and Man in Washington (Boston: Beacon Press, 1960), 226.
“I have a deep belief that the First Amendment separation between church and state is what guarantees the religious freedom of all people.”
--President Bill Clinton, campaign address, South Bend, Ind., September 1992.
“I believe in the separation of church and state and would not use my authority to violate this principle in any way.”
--President Jimmy Carter, Letter to Jack V. Harwell, August 11, 1977, Box RM1, White House Central Files, Jimmy Carter Library.
“The government ought to stay out of the prayer business.”
--President Jimmy Carter, press conference, Washington, D.C., 1979.
“Thank God, under our Constitution there was no connection between Church and State.”
--President James Knox Polk, in George Seldes, The Great Quotations, (New York: Lyle Stuart, 1960), 169.
(On the interference of government with religion and vice versa) “We believe that the cause of good government and the cause of religion suffer by all such interference.”
--Rutherford B. Hayes, statement as governor of Ohio, 1875.
“I am tolerant of all creeds. Yet if any sect suffered itself to be used for political objects I would meet it by political opposition. In my view church and state should be separate, not only in form, but fact. Religion and politics should not be mingled.”
--President Millard Fillmore, Address during 1856 presidential election in Robert J. Rayback, Millard Fillmore (Buffalo, N.Y.: Henry Stewart, Inc., 1959), 407.
“Religion is a difficult matter to handle politically.”
--President Herbert Hoover, quoted in Carl Sferazza Anthony, America’s First Families (New York: Touchstone Books, 2000), 217.
Other Public Figures
“All religions united with government are more or less inimical to liberty. All, separated from government, are compatible with liberty.”
--Henry Clay, address, U.S. House of Representatives, March 24, 1818.
“The church must be reminded that it is not the master or the servant of the state, but rather the conscience of the state. It must be the guide and the critic of the state, and never its tool.”
--Martin Luther King, Jr., Strength to Love (Harper & Row, 1963).
“It would disturb me if there was a wedding between the religious fundamentalists and the political right. The hard right has no interest in religion except to manipulate it.”
--Billy Graham, Parade (February 1, 1981).
“We will be a better country when each religious group can trust its members to obey the dictates of their own religious faith without assistance from the legal structure of the country.”
--Margaret Mead, anthropologist, Redbook magazine (February 1985).
“I’m so troubled, always, when I see people who are sure that they know exactly what God’s plan for the world is, what political party God belongs to, what God’s ideology is, and what God’s position on particular cases and controversies might be.”
--Al Gore, VP, statement to civil liberties and religious leaders July 14, 1994.
Judicial Interpretation of First Amendment
“Jefferson’s use of the term “wall of separation between church and state” may be accepted almost as an authoritative declaration of the scope and effect of the amendment thus secured.”
--Reynolds v. United States (1878), 98 U.S. 145 at 164.
“The very purpose of the Bill of Rights was to withdraw certain subjects from the vicissitudes of political controversy, to place them beyond the reach of majorities and officials and to establish them as legal principles to be applied by the courts. One’s right to life, liberty, and property, to free speech, a free press, freedom of worship and assembly, and other fundamental rights may not be submitted to vote; they depend on the outcome of no elections.”
West Virginia Board of Education v. Barnette, 319 U.S. 624, 638 (1943).
Denominational Acceptance
“Church and state should be separate. The states owe to every church protection and full freedom in the pursuit of its spiritual ends…The state has no right to impose taxes for the support of any form of religion. A free church in a free state is the Christian ideal.”
--1963 Southern Baptist Convention Annual 269-281, Article XVII “Religious Liberty.”
"An enforced uniformity of religion throughout a nation or civil state, confounds the civil and religious, denies the principles of Christianity and civility, and that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh."
--Roger Williams (founder of First Baptist Church in America), The Bloody Tenet of Persecution (1640).
"When they [the Church] have opened a gap in the hedge or wall of separation between the garden of the church and the wilderness of the world, God hath ever broke down the wall itself, removed the Candlestick, etc., and made His Garden a wilderness as it is this day. And that therefore if He will ever please to restore His garden and Paradise again, it must of necessity be walled in peculiarly unto Himself from the world, and all that be saved out of the world are to be transplanted out of the wilderness of the World."
--Roger Williams, "Mr. Cotton's Letter Lately Printed, Examined and Answered," The Complete Writings of Roger Williams, Vol. 1, 108 (1644).
"Religious matters are to be separated from the jurisdiction of the state, not because they are beneath the interests of the state but, quite to the contrary, because they are too high and holy and thus are beyond the competence of the state."
--Isaac Backus, colonial Baptist from New England, An Appeal to the Public for Religious Liberty (1773).
"The notion of a Christian commonwealth should be exploded forever. ... Government should protect every man in thinking and speaking freely, and see that one does not abuse another. The liberty I contend for is more than toleration. The very idea of toleration is despicable; it supposes that some have a pre-eminence above the rest to grant indulgence, whereas all should be equally free, Jews, Turks, Pagans and Christians." --John Leland, "A Chronicle of His Time in Virginia," as cited in Forrest Church, The Separation of Church and State, 92 (2004).
The Church ought to be regarded as "a complete republic of itself, not to be controlled by civil government..." --John Leland, colonial Baptist from Virginia, "Christocracy," The Writings of the Late Elder John Leland, 278 (cited in Rogers, Traditions of Church-State Separation:..., The Journal of Law & Politics, Vol. XVIII, no. 1, 277-321).
"Experience...has informed us that the fondness of magistrates to foster Christianity has done it more harm than all the persecutions ever did." --John Leland, quoted in Gaustad, A Disestablished Society: Origins of the First Amendment, vol. 11, A Journal of Church and State (1969), 414.
"These establishments metamorphose the church into a creature, and religion into a principle of state, which has a natural tendency to make men conclude that Bible religion is nothing but a trick of state."
-- John Leland, Right of Conscience Inalienable, and Therefore, Religious Opinions Not Cognizable By The Law.
"Truth disdains the aid of law for its defense--it will stand upon its own merits."
--John Leland, Right of Conscience Inalienable, and Therefore, Religious Opinions Not Cognizable By The Law.
"I esteem it above all things necessary to distinguish exactly the business of civil government from that of religion and to settle the just bounds that lie between the one and the other."
--John Locke, A Letter Concerning Toleration, 1689.
"Persecution is not an original feature in any religion; but is always the strongly marked feature of all...religions established by law. Take away the law-establishment, and every religion re-assumes its original benignity." --Thomas Paine, The Rights of Man, 1791.
The constitutional provision to ban a religious test for public office is "a provision the world would expect from you in the establishment of a System founded on Republican principles in an age so liberal and enlightened as the present."
--Charles Pinckney, delegate to the Constitutional Convention from South Carolina, quoted in Stokes and
Pfeffer, Church and State in the United States, 485.
"The rights of conscience are a peculiar delicacy and will little bear the gentlest touch of government's hand."
--Daniel Carroll, delegate from Maryland to the First Congress, 1 ANNALS OF CONG. 757-58 J. Gales ed., 1834 (August 15, 1789).
"[I]f I could now conceive that the general government might ever be so administered as to render the liberty of conscience insecure, I beg you will be persuaded, that no one would be more zealous than myself to establish effectual barriers against the horrors of spiritual tyranny, and every species of religious persecution. ...[E]very man, conducting himself as a good citizen, and being accountable to God alone for his religious opinions, ought to be protected in worshipping the Deity according to the dictates of his own conscience."
--George Washington, letter to the United Baptist Church's General Committee, May, 1789, cited in Forest Church, ed., The Separation of Church and State, 106.
“We should begin by setting conscience free. When all men of all religions…shall enjoy equal liberty, property, and an equal chance for honors and power…we may expect that improvements will be made in the human character and the state of society.”
--John Adams, Letter to Dr. Price, April 8, 1785.
“…the government of the United States is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion.” ---Treaty of Tripoli, 1797, ratified and signed by John Adams, cited in The Works of John Adams (Boston: Little, Brown & Co., 1856), volume IX, 636.
“I am for freedom of religion and against all maneuvers to bring about a legal ascendancy of one sect over another.” --President Thomas Jefferson, Letter to Elbridge Gerry, January 26, 1799.
“I contemplate with sovereign reverence the act of the Whole American people which declared that their legislature should ‘make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,’ thus building a wall of separation between Church & State.” --Thomas Jefferson, 1802 letter to Danbury Connecticut Baptist Association.
[T]o compel a man to furnish contributions of money for the propagation of opinions which he disbelieves and abhors, is sinful and tyrannical.”
--Thomas Jefferson, A bill for the Establishing of Religious Freedom.
“Certainly, no power to prescribe any religious exercise, or to assume authority in religious discipline, has been delegated to the General Government.”
--President Thomas Jefferson, Letter to the Rev. Samuel Miller, January 23, 1808.
“The Religion of every man must be left to the conviction and conscience of every man; and it is the right of every man to exercise it as these may dictate…It is the duty of everyman to render to the Creator such homage…as he believes to be acceptable to him. The duty is precedent, both in order of time and in degree of obligation, to the claims of Civil Society…We maintain therefore that in matters of Religion, no Man’s right is abridged by the institution of Civil Society and that Religion is wholly exempt from its cognizance.”
--James Madison, A Memorial and Remonstrance Against Religious Assessments, (1785).
“While we assert for ourselves a freedom to embrace, to profess and to observe the Religion which we believe to be of divine origin, we cannot deny an equal freedom to those whose minds have not yet yielded to the evidence which has convinced us.”
--James Madison, A Memorial and Remonstrance Against Religious Assessments, (1785).
“Because the establishment proposed by the Bill is not requisite for the support of the Christian Religion. To say that it is, is a contradiction to the Christian Religion itself, for every page of it disavows a dependence on the powers of this world…”
--James Madison, A Memorial and Remonstrance Against Religious Assessments, (1785).
“Whilst the number, the industry, and the morality of the Priesthood, & the devotion of the people have been manifestly increased by the total separation of the Church and the State.”
--James Madison, letter to Robert Walsh, 1819 in Gaillard Hunt, ed. The Writings of James Madison, v. VIII, 431-432.
“Religion flourishes in greater purity without than with the aid of government.”
--President James Madison, Letter to Edward Livingston, July 10, 1822.
“The amendment was discussed, and rejected, the opponents of the amendment having turned the feeling as well as judgment of the House [against] it by successfully contending that the better proof of reverence for that holy name [would] be not to profane it by making it a topic of legal discussion.”
--James Madison, on a provision to introduce Jesus Christ into a bill, undated memorandum, cited in Forrest Church, ed., The Separation of Church and State, 136.
“Every new and successful example of a perfect separation between ecclesiastical and civil matters is of importance.”
--President James Madison, Letter to Edward Livingston, July 10, 1822.
“When religion is good, I conceive it will support itself; and when it does not support itself, and God does not take care to support it so that its professors are obliged to call for the help of the civil power, it is a sign, I apprehend, of its being a bad one.”
--Benjamin Franklin, cited in Anson Phelps Stokes, Church and State in the United States (New York: Harper, 1950), vol. I, 298.
“Civil liberty can be established on no foundation of human reason which will not at the same time demonstrate the right to religious freedom.”
--President John Quincy Adams, Letter to Richard Anderson, May 27, 1823.
Various Presidential Affirmations of Religious Liberty
“It is my firm belief that there should be separation of church and state as we understand it in the United States—that is, that both church and state should be free to operate, without interference from each other in their respective areas of jurisdiction. We live in a liberal, democratic society which embraces wide varieties of belief and disbelief. There is no doubt in my mind that the pluralism which has developed under our Constitution, providing as it does a framework within which diverse opinions can exist side by side and by their interaction enrich the whole, is the most ideal system yet devised by man. I cannot conceive of a set of circumstances which would lead me to a different conclusion.”
--John F. Kennedy, in a letter to Glenn L. Archer, February 23, 1959.
“I believe in the American tradition of separation of church and state which is expressed in the First Amendment to the Constitution. By my office—and by personal conviction—I am sworn to uphold that tradition.”
--President Lyndon B. Johnson, interview, Baptist Standard, October 1964.
“The divorce between church and state should be absolute.”
--President James Garfield, quoted in Paul Blanshard, God and Man in Washington (Boston: Beacon Press, 1960), 226.
“I have a deep belief that the First Amendment separation between church and state is what guarantees the religious freedom of all people.”
--President Bill Clinton, campaign address, South Bend, Ind., September 1992.
“I believe in the separation of church and state and would not use my authority to violate this principle in any way.”
--President Jimmy Carter, Letter to Jack V. Harwell, August 11, 1977, Box RM1, White House Central Files, Jimmy Carter Library.
“The government ought to stay out of the prayer business.”
--President Jimmy Carter, press conference, Washington, D.C., 1979.
“Thank God, under our Constitution there was no connection between Church and State.”
--President James Knox Polk, in George Seldes, The Great Quotations, (New York: Lyle Stuart, 1960), 169.
(On the interference of government with religion and vice versa) “We believe that the cause of good government and the cause of religion suffer by all such interference.”
--Rutherford B. Hayes, statement as governor of Ohio, 1875.
“I am tolerant of all creeds. Yet if any sect suffered itself to be used for political objects I would meet it by political opposition. In my view church and state should be separate, not only in form, but fact. Religion and politics should not be mingled.”
--President Millard Fillmore, Address during 1856 presidential election in Robert J. Rayback, Millard Fillmore (Buffalo, N.Y.: Henry Stewart, Inc., 1959), 407.
“Religion is a difficult matter to handle politically.”
--President Herbert Hoover, quoted in Carl Sferazza Anthony, America’s First Families (New York: Touchstone Books, 2000), 217.
Other Public Figures
“All religions united with government are more or less inimical to liberty. All, separated from government, are compatible with liberty.”
--Henry Clay, address, U.S. House of Representatives, March 24, 1818.
“The church must be reminded that it is not the master or the servant of the state, but rather the conscience of the state. It must be the guide and the critic of the state, and never its tool.”
--Martin Luther King, Jr., Strength to Love (Harper & Row, 1963).
“It would disturb me if there was a wedding between the religious fundamentalists and the political right. The hard right has no interest in religion except to manipulate it.”
--Billy Graham, Parade (February 1, 1981).
“We will be a better country when each religious group can trust its members to obey the dictates of their own religious faith without assistance from the legal structure of the country.”
--Margaret Mead, anthropologist, Redbook magazine (February 1985).
“I’m so troubled, always, when I see people who are sure that they know exactly what God’s plan for the world is, what political party God belongs to, what God’s ideology is, and what God’s position on particular cases and controversies might be.”
--Al Gore, VP, statement to civil liberties and religious leaders July 14, 1994.
Judicial Interpretation of First Amendment
“Jefferson’s use of the term “wall of separation between church and state” may be accepted almost as an authoritative declaration of the scope and effect of the amendment thus secured.”
--Reynolds v. United States (1878), 98 U.S. 145 at 164.
“The very purpose of the Bill of Rights was to withdraw certain subjects from the vicissitudes of political controversy, to place them beyond the reach of majorities and officials and to establish them as legal principles to be applied by the courts. One’s right to life, liberty, and property, to free speech, a free press, freedom of worship and assembly, and other fundamental rights may not be submitted to vote; they depend on the outcome of no elections.”
West Virginia Board of Education v. Barnette, 319 U.S. 624, 638 (1943).
Denominational Acceptance
“Church and state should be separate. The states owe to every church protection and full freedom in the pursuit of its spiritual ends…The state has no right to impose taxes for the support of any form of religion. A free church in a free state is the Christian ideal.”
--1963 Southern Baptist Convention Annual 269-281, Article XVII “Religious Liberty.”
Rep. Lauren Boebert, a Republican from Colorado, recently said, “The church is supposed to direct the government. The government is not supposed to direct the church.” Boebert called the separation of church and state “junk.”
Many Christian nationalists repeat conservative activist David Barton’s argument that the Founding Fathers did not intend to keep religion out of government.
As a scholar of racism and communication who has written about white nationalism during the Trump presidency, I find the amplification of Christian nationalism unsurprising. Christian nationalism is prevalent among Trump supporters, as religion scholars Andrew Whitehead and Samuel L. Perry argue in their book “Taking Back America for God.”..............The catalyst for the growth of militia activity among contemporary Christian nationalists stems from two events: the 1992 Ruby Ridge standoff and the 1993 siege at Waco.
At Ruby Ridge, former Army Green Beret Randy Weaver engaged federal law enforcement in an 11-day standoff at his rural Idaho cabin over charges relating to the sale of sawed-off shotguns to an ATF informant investigating Aryan Nation white supremacist militia meetings................In the Waco siege a year later, cult leader David Koresh and his followers entered a standoff with federal law enforcement at the group’s Texas compound, once again concerning weapons charges. After a 51-day standoff, federal law enforcement laid siege to the compound. A fire took hold at the compound in disputed circumstances, leading to the deaths of 76 people, including Koresh.
Aug. 6, 2022: KRQE:After Trump, Christian nationalist ideas are going mainstream – despite a history of violence
Many Christian nationalists repeat conservative activist David Barton’s argument that the Founding Fathers did not intend to keep religion out of government.
As a scholar of racism and communication who has written about white nationalism during the Trump presidency, I find the amplification of Christian nationalism unsurprising. Christian nationalism is prevalent among Trump supporters, as religion scholars Andrew Whitehead and Samuel L. Perry argue in their book “Taking Back America for God.”..............The catalyst for the growth of militia activity among contemporary Christian nationalists stems from two events: the 1992 Ruby Ridge standoff and the 1993 siege at Waco.
At Ruby Ridge, former Army Green Beret Randy Weaver engaged federal law enforcement in an 11-day standoff at his rural Idaho cabin over charges relating to the sale of sawed-off shotguns to an ATF informant investigating Aryan Nation white supremacist militia meetings................In the Waco siege a year later, cult leader David Koresh and his followers entered a standoff with federal law enforcement at the group’s Texas compound, once again concerning weapons charges. After a 51-day standoff, federal law enforcement laid siege to the compound. A fire took hold at the compound in disputed circumstances, leading to the deaths of 76 people, including Koresh.
Aug. 6, 2022: KRQE:After Trump, Christian nationalist ideas are going mainstream – despite a history of violence
Aug 6, 2022:
In an exchange on Twitter with someone pushing Christion Nationalism someone gave this definition:
"The Christian worldview is that every inch of the world belongs to Jesus. Here is Christian nationalism: every person in every nation will eventually bend the knee before Christ."
It's a rather seductive twist of scripture. He is right that every knee shal bow and tongue confess...but they will be confessing that Jesus is Lord. They will realize when they step out into eternity....and for many it will be too late.
Making a Nation a theocracy will not bring people to their knees before Jesus. More likely, and my observation, it will have the opposite affect. The blood of Jesus can create new lives In Him which will last forever. The blood brought about by Christian Nationalists will most likely destroy forever.
CPAC is now embracing Christian Nationalism. My governor was a guest speaker. We live in what could be a dangerous time for a lot of people as these things are happening across the globe (i.e, the Hungarian Christian Nationalist who wants to join with American Christian nationalists). In a million years I never would have guessed that people who call themselves "Christian" would be the ones that could quite possibly aid in ringing in the apocalypse.
In an exchange on Twitter with someone pushing Christion Nationalism someone gave this definition:
"The Christian worldview is that every inch of the world belongs to Jesus. Here is Christian nationalism: every person in every nation will eventually bend the knee before Christ."
It's a rather seductive twist of scripture. He is right that every knee shal bow and tongue confess...but they will be confessing that Jesus is Lord. They will realize when they step out into eternity....and for many it will be too late.
Making a Nation a theocracy will not bring people to their knees before Jesus. More likely, and my observation, it will have the opposite affect. The blood of Jesus can create new lives In Him which will last forever. The blood brought about by Christian Nationalists will most likely destroy forever.
CPAC is now embracing Christian Nationalism. My governor was a guest speaker. We live in what could be a dangerous time for a lot of people as these things are happening across the globe (i.e, the Hungarian Christian Nationalist who wants to join with American Christian nationalists). In a million years I never would have guessed that people who call themselves "Christian" would be the ones that could quite possibly aid in ringing in the apocalypse.
Aug 4, 2022: Religion News Service: How to answer when Christian nationalists embrace the label as a badge of honor
(RNS) — Last week, U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia responded to those who had called her a “Christian nationalist.” Rather than disavow the term, however, she took it as a badge of honor. “I am being attacked by the godless left because I said I’m a proud Christian Nationalist,” she wrote on Twitter. “These evil people are even calling me a Nazi because I proudly love my country and my God.”
Greene’s characterization of her critics as “the godless left,” of course, ignores the broad swath of Christians who condemn Christian nationalism. The Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, to pick one group, has run the Christians Against Christian Nationalism campaign since 2019, with endorsers from several large denominations.
(RNS) — Last week, U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia responded to those who had called her a “Christian nationalist.” Rather than disavow the term, however, she took it as a badge of honor. “I am being attacked by the godless left because I said I’m a proud Christian Nationalist,” she wrote on Twitter. “These evil people are even calling me a Nazi because I proudly love my country and my God.”
Greene’s characterization of her critics as “the godless left,” of course, ignores the broad swath of Christians who condemn Christian nationalism. The Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, to pick one group, has run the Christians Against Christian Nationalism campaign since 2019, with endorsers from several large denominations.
Aug. 5, 2022: Slate: “Christian Nationalism” Used to Be Taboo. Now It’s All the Rage.
Al Mohler, the president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, called Christian nationalism “idolatrous” and pushed back on the idea that evangelical Christianity was linked to what had happened at the Capitol.
“Nationalism is always a clear and present danger,” he wrote a week after the insurrection. But linking it to “American evangelical Christianity,” he said, was an unfair “accusation.”
By this summer, Mohler had updated his thinking.
Speaking on his podcast on June 15, the theologian said: “We have the left routinely speaking of me and of others as Christian nationalists, as if we’re supposed to be running from that.” He added: “I’m not about to run from that.”
Mohler is not alone in changing his tune. Far-right politicians are warming to the label, too.
Al Mohler, the president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, called Christian nationalism “idolatrous” and pushed back on the idea that evangelical Christianity was linked to what had happened at the Capitol.
“Nationalism is always a clear and present danger,” he wrote a week after the insurrection. But linking it to “American evangelical Christianity,” he said, was an unfair “accusation.”
By this summer, Mohler had updated his thinking.
Speaking on his podcast on June 15, the theologian said: “We have the left routinely speaking of me and of others as Christian nationalists, as if we’re supposed to be running from that.” He added: “I’m not about to run from that.”
Mohler is not alone in changing his tune. Far-right politicians are warming to the label, too.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN, UNITED STATES, August 3, 2022 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Rabbi and Biblical scholar Michael E. Harvey has released his new book, Let’s Talk: A Rabbi Speaks to Christians. The book is designed for Christians to expand their knowledge about the Jewish aspects and roots of their faith. Most notably for current affairs, Let’s Talk addresses misconceptions, unintentional antisemitism in liturgy or interpretation, and draws beautiful comparisons between the two faiths. The text will empower and equip Christians with new and better ways to speak to American Jews and American Christians in a time of rising fundamentalism and antisemitism.
Let’s Talk: A Rabbi Speaks to Christians has become available at a time of great need, as Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene recently made headlines for her promotion of Christian nationalism, which is historically and intrinsically linked to antisemitism. The Anti-Defamation League reports that antisemitic incidents in the United States reached an all-time high in 2021, and unfortunately there is no sign that 2022 and beyond will be any safer.
Easy to read and use as a reference guide, the book can serve as a tool for Christian leaders and clergy who have seen antisemitism preached from the pulpit, helping identify the dangers and how to preach against such ideas. It is also useful for Christian laypeople seeking to unlearn latent antisemitism. The volume seeks to diminish conflict between Jews and Christians as it opens interfaith dialog and eases tensions from mistakes in the past.
Questions readers may be able to answer through Let’s Talk, include:
Why is there no such as thing as “Judeo-Christian values?”
What is the difference between the Judaism practiced by the historical Jesus and modern- day Judaism?
How does translation make Bible passages seem “clear” when their intended meaning is anything but?
Rabbi Harvey will be appearing at events in Louisville, Indianapolis, and Cincinnati in connection with the book’s release, with more dates to be added. Learn more at rabbimichaelharvey.com.
Let’s Talk: A Rabbi Speaks to Christians has become available at a time of great need, as Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene recently made headlines for her promotion of Christian nationalism, which is historically and intrinsically linked to antisemitism. The Anti-Defamation League reports that antisemitic incidents in the United States reached an all-time high in 2021, and unfortunately there is no sign that 2022 and beyond will be any safer.
Easy to read and use as a reference guide, the book can serve as a tool for Christian leaders and clergy who have seen antisemitism preached from the pulpit, helping identify the dangers and how to preach against such ideas. It is also useful for Christian laypeople seeking to unlearn latent antisemitism. The volume seeks to diminish conflict between Jews and Christians as it opens interfaith dialog and eases tensions from mistakes in the past.
Questions readers may be able to answer through Let’s Talk, include:
Why is there no such as thing as “Judeo-Christian values?”
What is the difference between the Judaism practiced by the historical Jesus and modern- day Judaism?
How does translation make Bible passages seem “clear” when their intended meaning is anything but?
Rabbi Harvey will be appearing at events in Louisville, Indianapolis, and Cincinnati in connection with the book’s release, with more dates to be added. Learn more at rabbimichaelharvey.com.
God doesn’t bend us to His will using violence, coercion and force. He bends us to His will by loving us to the point of his own death – even to death on a cross.
But the Christian nationalist would try to impose the kingdom of God through politics. If we’re going to have this mythical Christian nation, it will become necessary to force people to comply with “God’s law.”
There is no doubt that Christian nationalists could seize political power and force people to behave according to their dictates — to some degree. But it still wouldn’t be a “Christian nation.” Power and force only go so far. You can punish people for sexual immorality. You can outlaw divorce. You can crack down on all manner of “unchristian” behavior. But you can’t compel somebody to love their neighbor. And you can’t beat somebody into loving God.
Focusing on outward behavior and imposing some type of theonomy might make society look different. But you will ultimately end up with a whitewashed tomb.
The Kingdom of God stands apart from the kingdoms of this world. The “Christian nation” is the church universal — not America, or Germany, or even Israel. Christian nation-building is not a political project.
If you want a Christian nation, make disciples. Aug 3, 2022: Richmond Observer; OPINION: Marshall Maharrey; The Christian Nation: A project doomed to fail
But the Christian nationalist would try to impose the kingdom of God through politics. If we’re going to have this mythical Christian nation, it will become necessary to force people to comply with “God’s law.”
There is no doubt that Christian nationalists could seize political power and force people to behave according to their dictates — to some degree. But it still wouldn’t be a “Christian nation.” Power and force only go so far. You can punish people for sexual immorality. You can outlaw divorce. You can crack down on all manner of “unchristian” behavior. But you can’t compel somebody to love their neighbor. And you can’t beat somebody into loving God.
Focusing on outward behavior and imposing some type of theonomy might make society look different. But you will ultimately end up with a whitewashed tomb.
The Kingdom of God stands apart from the kingdoms of this world. The “Christian nation” is the church universal — not America, or Germany, or even Israel. Christian nation-building is not a political project.
If you want a Christian nation, make disciples. Aug 3, 2022: Richmond Observer; OPINION: Marshall Maharrey; The Christian Nation: A project doomed to fail
in June, North Carolina's Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson referred to a passage of the Bible that is often used by Christian nationalists: “We find ourselves in a pitched battle to literally save this nation... I don’t know about you, but I got my pack on, I got my boots on, I got my helmet on, I’ve got on the whole armor.”
Aug 3, 2022: WFAE; What the Christian nationalist movement means for North Carolina and the nation
Aug 3, 2022: WFAE; What the Christian nationalist movement means for North Carolina and the nation
The Religion of American Greatness: What’s Wrong with Christian Nationalism by Paul D. Miller (InterVarsity Press, 2022), 304 pages.
Miller defines Christian nationalism as believing “there is something identifiable as an American ‘nation,’ distinct from other nations; that American nationhood is and should remain defined by Christianity or Christian cultural norms; and that the American people and their government should actively work to defend, sustain, and cultivate America’s Christian culture, heritage, and values.” He cites three foundational tenets of all nationalists: (1) humanity is divided into cultural units that can be called nations; (2) nations should have their own states; and (3) governments should have jurisdiction over the cultural life of the nation. He adds two more he says are distinct for American Christian nationalists: (4) America’s culture was and is Anglo-Protestant; and (5) Anglo-Protestant culture is a precondition for the American experiment’s success.
Miller defines Christian nationalism as believing “there is something identifiable as an American ‘nation,’ distinct from other nations; that American nationhood is and should remain defined by Christianity or Christian cultural norms; and that the American people and their government should actively work to defend, sustain, and cultivate America’s Christian culture, heritage, and values.” He cites three foundational tenets of all nationalists: (1) humanity is divided into cultural units that can be called nations; (2) nations should have their own states; and (3) governments should have jurisdiction over the cultural life of the nation. He adds two more he says are distinct for American Christian nationalists: (4) America’s culture was and is Anglo-Protestant; and (5) Anglo-Protestant culture is a precondition for the American experiment’s success.
Aug 2, 2022: Only Sky: Thousands of Christians criticize Greene’s call for Christian nationalism
Almost 15,000 Christians have signed an online petition which harshly criticizes Greene’s efforts to promote Christian nationalism in government. The group that launched the petition, Faithful America, calls itself an online community of Christians working together for social justice.
Almost 15,000 Christians have signed an online petition which harshly criticizes Greene’s efforts to promote Christian nationalism in government. The group that launched the petition, Faithful America, calls itself an online community of Christians working together for social justice.
Aug 3, 2022: New York Times Opinion | What’s God Got to Do With It? The Rise of Christian Nationalism in American Politics.
Stewart feels that the movement is paving the way to something with graver consequence. “This is a movement that wants to promote theocratic policies,” she says. “But theocracy is really not the end point. It’s sort of a means to an end, which is authoritarianism.” McCaulley agrees the danger is real. But to him, there’s a place for faith-informed arguments in the public square. “When you try to enforce your religion as the base of your argument and the sole way of being a good American, that’s Christian nationalism,” he says. “And when you’re saying, well, hold on, here is a value that I want to advocate for, perhaps this is my best presentation of the issue, let’s vote and let society decide — I think that’s the best that you can hope for.”
Stewart feels that the movement is paving the way to something with graver consequence. “This is a movement that wants to promote theocratic policies,” she says. “But theocracy is really not the end point. It’s sort of a means to an end, which is authoritarianism.” McCaulley agrees the danger is real. But to him, there’s a place for faith-informed arguments in the public square. “When you try to enforce your religion as the base of your argument and the sole way of being a good American, that’s Christian nationalism,” he says. “And when you’re saying, well, hold on, here is a value that I want to advocate for, perhaps this is my best presentation of the issue, let’s vote and let society decide — I think that’s the best that you can hope for.”
No Americans want others imposing their religious values upon them.
Yet we have a movement within the Republican Party known as Christian nationalism that seeks to do just that.
In spite of our secular Constitution, this group seeks to impose one religion on all citizens through government actions and edicts. That is simply un-American.
The same folks who tout Christian nationalism are fervently opposed to the Taliban, and rightly so. Yet what is really the difference? Both groups seek to impose a religion on others who do not want or agree with it.
Our country’s founders did not seek to establish a state religion. After all, that was one of the worst things that they were fleeing from in England.
In Article 11 of the 1805 Treaty of Tripoli, signed by President Thomas Jefferson, it stated: “The Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion.”
Read the excellent book, “The Founding Myth,” by Andrew Seidel for many more examples.
Only a massive voter turnout against Republicans in November can stop this kind of madness.
--Letter to Herald Tribune Aug 3, 2022
Yet we have a movement within the Republican Party known as Christian nationalism that seeks to do just that.
In spite of our secular Constitution, this group seeks to impose one religion on all citizens through government actions and edicts. That is simply un-American.
The same folks who tout Christian nationalism are fervently opposed to the Taliban, and rightly so. Yet what is really the difference? Both groups seek to impose a religion on others who do not want or agree with it.
Our country’s founders did not seek to establish a state religion. After all, that was one of the worst things that they were fleeing from in England.
In Article 11 of the 1805 Treaty of Tripoli, signed by President Thomas Jefferson, it stated: “The Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion.”
Read the excellent book, “The Founding Myth,” by Andrew Seidel for many more examples.
Only a massive voter turnout against Republicans in November can stop this kind of madness.
--Letter to Herald Tribune Aug 3, 2022
July 28, 2022:
Marjorie Taylor Greene has actually stated that the GOP IS the party of Christian nationalism and Christian nationalist policies “serve everyone.”
Greene: “Republicans need to prove to the American people that we are the party of …Christian nationalism.”
The Greek word "ecclesia," translated "church," means a "called out company," implying separation. The early church separated themselves from the evils of the world system. This is God's ideal for the church. Every effort to unite the church and the world system is opposed to God's mind and must end in confusion. The church will never convert the world or the world's systems, although the church can get "churchy" and the church can be immensely worldly. We are instructed to reach individual souls through our witness of Him. We are not instructed to convert governments. And therein is the first major error of Christian Nationalism.
Marjorie Taylor Greene has actually stated that the GOP IS the party of Christian nationalism and Christian nationalist policies “serve everyone.”
Greene: “Republicans need to prove to the American people that we are the party of …Christian nationalism.”
The Greek word "ecclesia," translated "church," means a "called out company," implying separation. The early church separated themselves from the evils of the world system. This is God's ideal for the church. Every effort to unite the church and the world system is opposed to God's mind and must end in confusion. The church will never convert the world or the world's systems, although the church can get "churchy" and the church can be immensely worldly. We are instructed to reach individual souls through our witness of Him. We are not instructed to convert governments. And therein is the first major error of Christian Nationalism.
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June 16, 2022: Newsweek: Adam Kinzinger Warns Churches Have Become 'House of Worship' to Trump
Representative Adam Kinzinger, an Illinois Republican, warned that some Christian churches have become a "house of worship" to former President Donald Trump.
Representative Adam Kinzinger, an Illinois Republican, warned that some Christian churches have become a "house of worship" to former President Donald Trump.
June 9, 2-022: Religion Dispatches: How Christian nationalism paved the way for Jan. 6
On June 1, 2020, then-President Donald Trump marched across Lafayette Square outside the White House, trailed by an anxious-looking team of advisers and military aides. The group shuffled past detritus left by racial justice protesters after a frantic mass expulsion executed by police minutes prior with clubs, pepper balls and tear gas.
The dignitaries stopped in front of St. John’s Church, where presidents, including Trump, have traditionally attended services on their Inauguration Day. St. John’s, which had suffered a minor fire the day before, was closed. But Trump took up a position in front of its sign and turned toward the cameras, a Bible held aloft.
“We have the greatest country in the world,” Trump said. In the distance, sirens wailed.
On June 1, 2020, then-President Donald Trump marched across Lafayette Square outside the White House, trailed by an anxious-looking team of advisers and military aides. The group shuffled past detritus left by racial justice protesters after a frantic mass expulsion executed by police minutes prior with clubs, pepper balls and tear gas.
The dignitaries stopped in front of St. John’s Church, where presidents, including Trump, have traditionally attended services on their Inauguration Day. St. John’s, which had suffered a minor fire the day before, was closed. But Trump took up a position in front of its sign and turned toward the cameras, a Bible held aloft.
“We have the greatest country in the world,” Trump said. In the distance, sirens wailed.
July 24, 2022:
Anne Graham Lotz recently told an audience: "On the morning of Friday, June 24, the Supreme Court took a significant step in leading our nation to turn around when it overturned Roe vs. Wade. Six courageous justices chose life. I applaud their decision as a victorious first step for the well-being of our entire nation as we turn around from the federalized legalization of choosing death."
I do see a lot of Christians imply ideas similar to hers. But I don't think the decision by SCOTUS really means what they think it means. You cannot legislate morality. You can make a law...but for a nation to turn you have to change hearts. A moral victory would mean it would be unlikely that it could be overturned. SCOTUS laws, however, can. It's the nature of a court that is partisan and not actually meting out any justice, which is what the Supreme Court has become. The right wing, with the "Christians" they dragged along are seeking justice through laws made by men. And following the fascist railings of a mad man known as Donald Trump. They say that Republicans have done a lot of changes to election rules which are not fair. And they have done it because they know that if elections are honest they can't win. A lot of Christian Nationalists have done the same with Christianity. They don't believe that by being honest that they can win..so they decided to become political and ignore good Christian morals. Change a law...you win til it changes again. Change a heart..it's forever
Anne Graham Lotz recently told an audience: "On the morning of Friday, June 24, the Supreme Court took a significant step in leading our nation to turn around when it overturned Roe vs. Wade. Six courageous justices chose life. I applaud their decision as a victorious first step for the well-being of our entire nation as we turn around from the federalized legalization of choosing death."
I do see a lot of Christians imply ideas similar to hers. But I don't think the decision by SCOTUS really means what they think it means. You cannot legislate morality. You can make a law...but for a nation to turn you have to change hearts. A moral victory would mean it would be unlikely that it could be overturned. SCOTUS laws, however, can. It's the nature of a court that is partisan and not actually meting out any justice, which is what the Supreme Court has become. The right wing, with the "Christians" they dragged along are seeking justice through laws made by men. And following the fascist railings of a mad man known as Donald Trump. They say that Republicans have done a lot of changes to election rules which are not fair. And they have done it because they know that if elections are honest they can't win. A lot of Christian Nationalists have done the same with Christianity. They don't believe that by being honest that they can win..so they decided to become political and ignore good Christian morals. Change a law...you win til it changes again. Change a heart..it's forever
July 19, 2022: A Public Witness: Is the Old Line Falling to Christian Nationalism?
As Doug Mastriano celebrated his victory in the Republican gubernatorial primary in Pennsylvania in May, his rally featured a bit of a who’s who of Christian Nationalism. Musician Sean Feucht, who protested COVID-19 health measures, opened the political event with Christian praise music. Mastriano quoted scriptures as he framed his campaign as a spiritual movement. Former Trump lawyer and now Mastriano campaign advisor Jenna Ellis (who’s not a fan of us) praised the Pennsylvania nominee for leading “a great victory in the name of Jesus.”
And another person introduced as a “special guest” spoke that night at the rally in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania: Dan Cox, a Republican gubernatorial candidate … in Maryland.
As Doug Mastriano celebrated his victory in the Republican gubernatorial primary in Pennsylvania in May, his rally featured a bit of a who’s who of Christian Nationalism. Musician Sean Feucht, who protested COVID-19 health measures, opened the political event with Christian praise music. Mastriano quoted scriptures as he framed his campaign as a spiritual movement. Former Trump lawyer and now Mastriano campaign advisor Jenna Ellis (who’s not a fan of us) praised the Pennsylvania nominee for leading “a great victory in the name of Jesus.”
And another person introduced as a “special guest” spoke that night at the rally in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania: Dan Cox, a Republican gubernatorial candidate … in Maryland.
June 24,2022: Baptist News Global: Two viruses threaten the life of the Southern Baptist Convention: Male hierarchy and dominion theology
The Southern Baptist Convention has been unhealthy for a very long time, and now her two most deadly latent viruses are wreaking havoc on the body.
The SBC released an independent report regarding decades of sexual abuse within some churches and institutions. In excruciating detail, it chronicles the horrific, calloused and hypocritical behavior of top SBC leaders who worked to stonewall, discredit and even demonize abuse victims who came forward.
The Southern Baptist Convention has been unhealthy for a very long time, and now her two most deadly latent viruses are wreaking havoc on the body.
The SBC released an independent report regarding decades of sexual abuse within some churches and institutions. In excruciating detail, it chronicles the horrific, calloused and hypocritical behavior of top SBC leaders who worked to stonewall, discredit and even demonize abuse victims who came forward.
“If Christian nationalism is about anything, it’s about power and preserving the status quo,” Dr. Augustine said. He pointed out that we saw examples at the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, which included rioters carrying flags that said “Jesus is my savior, Trump is my president.” “How did we get to that point — where those two are so closely wedded?” he asked, noting that Christian nationalism conflates cross and country to achieve its purposes. “It’s not about acceptance or inclusion, but it’s about … tribalism. If you’re not in it, you’re against it, and you must be taken down, and anything against the status quo must be going against God,” he continued. “So, to preserve power, Christian nationalism is destroying democracy,” Dr. Augustine said, referring back to the insurrection, voter suppression laws, and efforts to ban books and un-write history. “Christian nationalism, I believe, requires a prophetic response from the church. I believe it also requires a legal response from those who have legal training and care about the law.” -BJC Online
We’ve seen how Christian nationalism shows up… appeals to God, or equating God and Trump, or … that somehow Trump’s reelection was preordained or part of God’s bigger plan – how these helped feed and sustain the Big Lie and how former President Trump continued along those lines [at the Faith and Freedom Coalition Conference] as he was appealing to familiar incantations of Christian nationalism, saying that our founding documents were divinely inspired or that our civil rights and liberties came directly from God, or – in one of the biggest applause lines of the day – when he said, “in America we don’t worship government, we worship God.”
Of course, the problem is that no single religion has ever united Americans. Instead, what unites Americans is our commitment to religious freedom for all, and former President Trump’s continuing appeals to Christian nationalism threaten that value. -Baptist Joint Committee Executive Director Amanda Tyle
Of course, the problem is that no single religion has ever united Americans. Instead, what unites Americans is our commitment to religious freedom for all, and former President Trump’s continuing appeals to Christian nationalism threaten that value. -Baptist Joint Committee Executive Director Amanda Tyle
The insurrection at the Capitol on Jan. 6 was in many ways a Christian nationalist event. Crosses, Christian banners and signs reading “Jesus is my savior, Trump is my president,” were unavoidable. Michael Sparks, charged by the FBI for entering the Capitol through a broken window, wrote on Facebook that “Trump will be your president four more years in Jesus’ name.” Many touted Jesus — and Trump — as their reason for being there.
The “QAnon Shaman,” having breached the Senate chamber, led a group in prayer thanking “Heavenly Father” for allowing them to “send a message to all the tyrants, the communists, and the globalists that this is our nation, not theirs.”
The threatening rhetoric has permeated parts of Congress, where posing with guns, often in the name of Christianity, has become de rigueur for far-right electeds and candidates. Last year Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie and Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert traded Christmas cards on Twitter with their arsenals of firearms.
In 2020, Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene posed on Facebook with a gun and images of three Democratic members of Congress, writing, “We need strong conservative Christians to go on the offense against these socialists who want to rip our country apart.” Facebook removed the post for violating its policies.
Meanwhile, in Texas, the state Republican Party is voting on a new platform, which puts God and guns front and center.
The first five words are “Affirming our belief in God.” The platform includes 10 mentions of guns and 16 mentions of God, including the belief in “the laws of nature and nature’s God,” giving schools the option to display the national motto “In God We Trust,” affirming “God’s biblical design for marriage and sexual behavior,” and declaring “all gun control” a “violation of the Second Amendment and our God-given rights.” You’d almost think we were a theocracy.
All of this — the rise in Christian nationalism and the literal and metaphorical weaponizing of faith to intimidate opponents — while the country grows less and less religious. --SE Cupp; The GOP weaponizes faith; will atheists object?
The “QAnon Shaman,” having breached the Senate chamber, led a group in prayer thanking “Heavenly Father” for allowing them to “send a message to all the tyrants, the communists, and the globalists that this is our nation, not theirs.”
The threatening rhetoric has permeated parts of Congress, where posing with guns, often in the name of Christianity, has become de rigueur for far-right electeds and candidates. Last year Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie and Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert traded Christmas cards on Twitter with their arsenals of firearms.
In 2020, Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene posed on Facebook with a gun and images of three Democratic members of Congress, writing, “We need strong conservative Christians to go on the offense against these socialists who want to rip our country apart.” Facebook removed the post for violating its policies.
Meanwhile, in Texas, the state Republican Party is voting on a new platform, which puts God and guns front and center.
The first five words are “Affirming our belief in God.” The platform includes 10 mentions of guns and 16 mentions of God, including the belief in “the laws of nature and nature’s God,” giving schools the option to display the national motto “In God We Trust,” affirming “God’s biblical design for marriage and sexual behavior,” and declaring “all gun control” a “violation of the Second Amendment and our God-given rights.” You’d almost think we were a theocracy.
All of this — the rise in Christian nationalism and the literal and metaphorical weaponizing of faith to intimidate opponents — while the country grows less and less religious. --SE Cupp; The GOP weaponizes faith; will atheists object?
June 14, 2022: AlterNet: These Christian activists are pushing back against Roger Stone and Michael Flynn’s 'toxic' MAGA fundamentalism
Journalist Peter Stone, in an article published by The Guardian on June 14, explains, “The falsehoods pushed at ReAwaken gatherings have prompted some Christian leaders to warn that America’s political and spiritual health is threatened by a toxic mix of Christian nationalism, lies about Trump’s loss to Joe Biden, and ahistorical views of the nation’s founding principle of the separation of church and state. Several well-known Christian leaders, including the president of the Christian social justice group Sojourners and the executive director of a major Baptist group, have called on American churches to speak out against the messages promoted at ReAwaken America rallies that have been held in Oklahoma, Arizona, Texas, California, South Carolina and other states.”
Although Trump is quite popular among far-right White evangelicals and Christian nationalists, he has plenty of scathing critics within Christianity — from Catholics to Mainline Protestants (Episcopalians, Lutherans, Presbyterians, the African Methodist Episcopal Church).
Sojourners President Adam Russell Taylor told The Guardian, “This ReAwaken tour is peddling dangerous lies about both the election and the pandemic. Jesus taught us that the truth will set us free, and these lies hold people captive to these dangerous falsehoods. They also exacerbate the toxic polarization we’re seeing in both the church and the wider society.”
Journalist Peter Stone, in an article published by The Guardian on June 14, explains, “The falsehoods pushed at ReAwaken gatherings have prompted some Christian leaders to warn that America’s political and spiritual health is threatened by a toxic mix of Christian nationalism, lies about Trump’s loss to Joe Biden, and ahistorical views of the nation’s founding principle of the separation of church and state. Several well-known Christian leaders, including the president of the Christian social justice group Sojourners and the executive director of a major Baptist group, have called on American churches to speak out against the messages promoted at ReAwaken America rallies that have been held in Oklahoma, Arizona, Texas, California, South Carolina and other states.”
Although Trump is quite popular among far-right White evangelicals and Christian nationalists, he has plenty of scathing critics within Christianity — from Catholics to Mainline Protestants (Episcopalians, Lutherans, Presbyterians, the African Methodist Episcopal Church).
Sojourners President Adam Russell Taylor told The Guardian, “This ReAwaken tour is peddling dangerous lies about both the election and the pandemic. Jesus taught us that the truth will set us free, and these lies hold people captive to these dangerous falsehoods. They also exacerbate the toxic polarization we’re seeing in both the church and the wider society.”
June 9, 2022: Religion Dispatches: Jan. 6 committee must address Christian nationalism
Christian nationalism is a political ideology and cultural framework. It merges American and Christian identities, suggesting that only Christians are “true” Americans. This pervasive ideology not only undermines the ideal of religious freedom for all — which is foundational to our constitutional democracy — but also threatens core directives of Christianity: to worship only God and to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Christian nationalism is a political ideology and cultural framework. It merges American and Christian identities, suggesting that only Christians are “true” Americans. This pervasive ideology not only undermines the ideal of religious freedom for all — which is foundational to our constitutional democracy — but also threatens core directives of Christianity: to worship only God and to love our neighbors as ourselves.
June 7, 2022: Religious Dispatches: CHRISTIAN NATIONALISTS AND THE HOLY GUN CRUSADE
In the wake of every mass shooting in this country, we have a brief moment where we talk about the guns used and the need for gun control. And then rapidly, the gun lobby, conservative politicians, Second Amendment absolutists, and the rest find every conceivable other possible thing to focus on, starting with “thoughts and prayers” and moving on to hardening school buildings. The mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, where the shooter used an AR-15-style weapon he’d purchased from the gun company Daniel Defense, has followed the same pattern--but with a recognition that the love of the AR-15 style weapon isn’t just about “freedom” or Second Amendment absolutism. It’s also about Christian Nationalism.
In the wake of every mass shooting in this country, we have a brief moment where we talk about the guns used and the need for gun control. And then rapidly, the gun lobby, conservative politicians, Second Amendment absolutists, and the rest find every conceivable other possible thing to focus on, starting with “thoughts and prayers” and moving on to hardening school buildings. The mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, where the shooter used an AR-15-style weapon he’d purchased from the gun company Daniel Defense, has followed the same pattern--but with a recognition that the love of the AR-15 style weapon isn’t just about “freedom” or Second Amendment absolutism. It’s also about Christian Nationalism.
At first blush, an effort known as “Pennsylvania for Christ” seems like a run-of-the-mill evangelistic campaign. Its stated mission is “to reestablish the kingdom of God in PA with word and action. We create events that help us accomplish the mission of putting Christ at the center of our state.” And they’ve gone about their ministry as one would expect. They held an event with speakers and praise music, announced a special time of prayer and fasting, and put out high-production videos featuring a minister, b-roll footage, and inspirational music.
But if you pay closer attention, you’ll notice Pennsylvania for Christ is doing more than trying to save souls. This movement’s praying for votes in the Republican primary for governor. Their slogans like “reestablishing the kingdom of God in Pennsylvania” and “we will claim Pennsylvania for Christ” mean putting State Sen. Doug Mastriano in the governor’s mansion. His ascension would suggest “an awakening is coming.” -Christian Nationalism as the Keystone
But if you pay closer attention, you’ll notice Pennsylvania for Christ is doing more than trying to save souls. This movement’s praying for votes in the Republican primary for governor. Their slogans like “reestablishing the kingdom of God in Pennsylvania” and “we will claim Pennsylvania for Christ” mean putting State Sen. Doug Mastriano in the governor’s mansion. His ascension would suggest “an awakening is coming.” -Christian Nationalism as the Keystone
A professor of international affairs at Georgetown University and a research fellow with the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, Paul D. Miller contrasts Christianity with Christian Nationalism: “Christianity is a religion focused on the person and work of Jesus Christ as defined by the Christian Bible and the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds. It is the gathering of people ‘from every nation and tribe and people and language,’ who worship Jesus (Rev. 7:9), a faith that unites Jews and Greeks, Americans and non-Americans together.”
However, “Christian nationalism is the belief that the American nation is defined by Christianity, and that the government should take active steps to keep it that way. Popularly, Christian nationalists assert that America is and must remain a ‘Christian nation’—not merely as an observation about American history, but as a prescriptive program for what America must continue to be in the future.”
In his review of Taking America Back for God: Christian Nationalism in the United States by Andrew L. Whitehead and Samuel L. Perry, English Professor Dennis McDaniel cites a number of passages that show how far this movement has strayed from the credos of Christianity: “Christian nationalism bears little resemblance to Christianity. Christian nationalism works in a decidedly un-Christ-like manner by supporting policies that marginalize those who, through their beliefs or identity, don’t conform to a biblically ordained order that reverences the traditional family, militarism, closed borders, and white, Protestant supremacy.” -Lloyd E Sheaffer; Penn Capitol Star
However, “Christian nationalism is the belief that the American nation is defined by Christianity, and that the government should take active steps to keep it that way. Popularly, Christian nationalists assert that America is and must remain a ‘Christian nation’—not merely as an observation about American history, but as a prescriptive program for what America must continue to be in the future.”
In his review of Taking America Back for God: Christian Nationalism in the United States by Andrew L. Whitehead and Samuel L. Perry, English Professor Dennis McDaniel cites a number of passages that show how far this movement has strayed from the credos of Christianity: “Christian nationalism bears little resemblance to Christianity. Christian nationalism works in a decidedly un-Christ-like manner by supporting policies that marginalize those who, through their beliefs or identity, don’t conform to a biblically ordained order that reverences the traditional family, militarism, closed borders, and white, Protestant supremacy.” -Lloyd E Sheaffer; Penn Capitol Star
“When it comes to a firmly entrenched Christian nationalist, we do have to remember that we are trying to dispute not only an individual but their favorite TV network and the ever self-reinforcing bubble of opinion fed to them on social media through algorithms sifting through their clicks and likes, and the hundreds or even thousands of members of their church where they just praise Jesus and ask him to save the United States while listening to heart-thumping rock music and indoctrinating sermons,” she said during an April 27 event celebrating the release of her new book, The Psychology of Christian Nationalism: Why People are Drawn In and How to Talk Across the Divide. -Jeff Brumly; Baptist News Global
From the beginning, the religious right was the backbone of Trump's Big Lie. As Kathryn Joyce reported for Salon on the anniversary of the January 6 insurrection, in the run-up to the riot, "allegations about the 'stolen' election became nearly inseparable from messages of apocalyptic faith." The crowd that turned out that day was largely driven by religious fervor. Popular religious right figures were responsible for sending thousands of people to the Capitol to do Trump's bidding. Since then, the Christian nationalist devotion to the Big Lie has only grown stronger. Six out of 10 white evangelicals claim Biden stole the 2020 election, compared to 37% of white Christians from mainline churches.
The enthusiasm for the Big Lie among white evangelicals comes back primarily to one thing: Racism. -Amanda Marcotte; Salon
The enthusiasm for the Big Lie among white evangelicals comes back primarily to one thing: Racism. -Amanda Marcotte; Salon
Some of the Christian nationalists who attacked the Capitol Building, according to Jenkins, were followers of White nationalist Nick Fuentes.
“‘Christ is King’ is not controversial in itself: The phrase is rooted in Christian scripture and tradition,” Jenkins notes. “But Fuentes’ supporters have given it a different connotation. They have chanted it at anti-vaccine protests and the anti-abortion March for Life, some of them holding crucifixes aloft. It was heard in March, at an America First conference, where Fuentes delivered a speech saying America will cease to be America ‘if it loses its White demographic core and if it loses its faith in Jesus Christ.’ Fuentes also declared the country ‘a Christian nation.’” -Alex Henderson; AlterNet
“‘Christ is King’ is not controversial in itself: The phrase is rooted in Christian scripture and tradition,” Jenkins notes. “But Fuentes’ supporters have given it a different connotation. They have chanted it at anti-vaccine protests and the anti-abortion March for Life, some of them holding crucifixes aloft. It was heard in March, at an America First conference, where Fuentes delivered a speech saying America will cease to be America ‘if it loses its White demographic core and if it loses its faith in Jesus Christ.’ Fuentes also declared the country ‘a Christian nation.’” -Alex Henderson; AlterNet
Washington Post columnist Jennifer Rubin, now 60, has voted Republican in most post-1970s presidential elections — and in the past, she strongly identified with moderate conservatives like Sen. John McCain of Arizona and former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge. But these days, Rubin is an outspoken Never Trumper and a scathing critic of the MAGA movement. And in an April 27 column, Rubin argues that the Trumpified GOP has forsaken traditional conservatism in favor of “White Christian nationalism.”
“People might be confused about how a Republican Party that once worried about government overreach now seeks to control medical care for transgender children and retaliate against a corporation for objecting to a bill targeting LGBTQ students,” Rubin explains. “And why is it that the most ambitious Republicans are spending more time battling nonexistent critical race theory in schools than on health care or inflation? To explain this, one must acknowledge that the GOP is not a political party anymore. It is a movement dedicated to imposing White Christian nationalism.” -AlterNet: MAGA Republicans have forsaken small-government politics for ‘White Christian nationalism’: conservative
“People might be confused about how a Republican Party that once worried about government overreach now seeks to control medical care for transgender children and retaliate against a corporation for objecting to a bill targeting LGBTQ students,” Rubin explains. “And why is it that the most ambitious Republicans are spending more time battling nonexistent critical race theory in schools than on health care or inflation? To explain this, one must acknowledge that the GOP is not a political party anymore. It is a movement dedicated to imposing White Christian nationalism.” -AlterNet: MAGA Republicans have forsaken small-government politics for ‘White Christian nationalism’: conservative
Nationalism...is the multifaceted and contested ideology that forms the vocabulary and imagination of a political community. And religion has always played an important role in the development of nationalism. Sometimes nationalism is harmful, but sometimes it is a necessary part of our collective effort at identifying ourselves and our ideals. In one sense, we are all nationalists. If we look to the Constitution as the supreme law of the land, then we are nationalists of one sort. If we look to America as a New Israel, then we are nationalists of another sort. But not all nationalisms are the same.
Three Kinds of Nationalism
Elie Kedourie, a twentieth-century scholar who taught at the London School of Economics, mapped nationalism’s subtleties and complexities, particularly those introduced by the influence of religious and philosophical ideas. Kedourie wrote or edited over twenty books in his career, and Anthony Smith summarized his work on nationalism by observing that he saw three kinds of relationships between nationalism and religion. First, some nationalistic expressions are secular. Secular, revolutionary nationalism displaces and stamps out traditional religion as a partner alongside the state in securing order and social cohesion. Its key marker is its open hostility to traditional religion. This kind of nationalism is exemplified by eighteenth-century revolutionary France and twentieth-century revolutionary Russia. But even the violently secular revolutionary French and Soviets employed religious rituals, symbols, and behaviors for nationalistic purposes.
Second, some nationalistic expressions find an alliance with traditional religion. In this model, institutional religion subordinates itself to a nation in support of its political agenda. Under this kind of nationalism, acquiescent religions are subsumed into the state and become defined by the nation’s aims rather than by trans-political creedal tenets. An example of this would be the Anglican established church in England, with the monarch as the head of the church. English nationalism, especially as it was manifested in the nineteenth century, was informed by the sacred texts, images, symbols, and rites of the Anglican establishment.
We do not have to look far for examples of Christian nationalism emanating from the right. But equally troubling is the secular nationalism and state-driven civil religion that’s emerging from the left.
Third, nationalism often takes traditional religion and fashions it into a political theology. This kind of nationalism consists in a composite of theological themes that are articulated for a nationalistic agenda. For example, biblical ideas such as mission or election are borrowed from a coherent theological framework and redefined according to political goals. So in the 1840s, American manifest destiny represented a redefinition of the Great Commission of Matthew 28:19–20 from carrying the gospel of salvation in Christ to the world to extending the American Union over all North America. This third brand of nationalism takes religious doctrines and perverts them for purposes for which they were never designed, as opposed to the second brand of nationalism, in which traditional religion is not essentially redefined. Such a model seems consistent with how Andrew L. Whitehead and Samuel L. Perry define today’s Christian nationalism in their book, Taking America Back for God: Christian Nationalism in the United States (Oxford, 2020). -Public Discourse
Three Kinds of Nationalism
Elie Kedourie, a twentieth-century scholar who taught at the London School of Economics, mapped nationalism’s subtleties and complexities, particularly those introduced by the influence of religious and philosophical ideas. Kedourie wrote or edited over twenty books in his career, and Anthony Smith summarized his work on nationalism by observing that he saw three kinds of relationships between nationalism and religion. First, some nationalistic expressions are secular. Secular, revolutionary nationalism displaces and stamps out traditional religion as a partner alongside the state in securing order and social cohesion. Its key marker is its open hostility to traditional religion. This kind of nationalism is exemplified by eighteenth-century revolutionary France and twentieth-century revolutionary Russia. But even the violently secular revolutionary French and Soviets employed religious rituals, symbols, and behaviors for nationalistic purposes.
Second, some nationalistic expressions find an alliance with traditional religion. In this model, institutional religion subordinates itself to a nation in support of its political agenda. Under this kind of nationalism, acquiescent religions are subsumed into the state and become defined by the nation’s aims rather than by trans-political creedal tenets. An example of this would be the Anglican established church in England, with the monarch as the head of the church. English nationalism, especially as it was manifested in the nineteenth century, was informed by the sacred texts, images, symbols, and rites of the Anglican establishment.
We do not have to look far for examples of Christian nationalism emanating from the right. But equally troubling is the secular nationalism and state-driven civil religion that’s emerging from the left.
Third, nationalism often takes traditional religion and fashions it into a political theology. This kind of nationalism consists in a composite of theological themes that are articulated for a nationalistic agenda. For example, biblical ideas such as mission or election are borrowed from a coherent theological framework and redefined according to political goals. So in the 1840s, American manifest destiny represented a redefinition of the Great Commission of Matthew 28:19–20 from carrying the gospel of salvation in Christ to the world to extending the American Union over all North America. This third brand of nationalism takes religious doctrines and perverts them for purposes for which they were never designed, as opposed to the second brand of nationalism, in which traditional religion is not essentially redefined. Such a model seems consistent with how Andrew L. Whitehead and Samuel L. Perry define today’s Christian nationalism in their book, Taking America Back for God: Christian Nationalism in the United States (Oxford, 2020). -Public Discourse
In all of his rhetoric, in all of his efforts to elicit the Christian vote, though, Josh Mandel never once mentioned his own Judaism. I am embarrassed to admit that I did not even know this Ted Cruz-backed candidate’s Jewishness until after the rally, contrary to Flynn, who referenced Catholicism throughout his speech. No one would have doubted that Mandel is a sincere Christian, particularly as he parades through evangelical churches throughout the state. Perhaps his constant reference to his time as a Marine, and thus his scars, make up for any religious insincerity. He gave the nod to Ohio’s new open carry laws as a victory for this Christian church.
Then there is Michael Flynn, the Catholic nationalist people’s general, whom Mandel strategically used as his “Pro-Trump” portion of his campaign. While President Trump did not endorse Mandel, opting for his rival J.D Vance instead, Flynn gave his backing to Mandel. When someone asked why Trump backed Vance despite his anti-Trump remarks in the past, the answer involved the divine mystery of the former President: No one knows what is going on in his head. At the end of the day, the candidate with the “Pro-Trump” campaign did not receive President Trump’s backing and had to rely on Michael Flynn instead. Regardless, Mandel promised the crowd to dismantle the January 6th insurrection on the capital commission and instead create a November 3rd commission to take back Trump’s rightful victory. -Tiffany Hunsinger; Righting America
Then there is Michael Flynn, the Catholic nationalist people’s general, whom Mandel strategically used as his “Pro-Trump” portion of his campaign. While President Trump did not endorse Mandel, opting for his rival J.D Vance instead, Flynn gave his backing to Mandel. When someone asked why Trump backed Vance despite his anti-Trump remarks in the past, the answer involved the divine mystery of the former President: No one knows what is going on in his head. At the end of the day, the candidate with the “Pro-Trump” campaign did not receive President Trump’s backing and had to rely on Michael Flynn instead. Regardless, Mandel promised the crowd to dismantle the January 6th insurrection on the capital commission and instead create a November 3rd commission to take back Trump’s rightful victory. -Tiffany Hunsinger; Righting America
I believe that the single biggest threat to religious freedom in the United States today is Christian nationalism. Christian nationalism is antithetical to the constitutional ideal that belonging in American society is not predicated on what faith one practices or whether someone is religious at all. The political ideology that seeks to merge American and Christian identities is deeply embedded in American society and manifests itself in a number of different ways, some more obviously harmful than others. -Amanda Tyler of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty
Apr 26, 2022: Real Clear Religion: What SCOTUS Would Risk by Imposing Christian Nationalism
It is right up front in the First Amendment: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." There is a reason both the establishment and free-exercise clauses start the Bill of Rights. If there was a single driving force behind the founding of the American colonies, it was religious liberty -- the right of non-Anglican "dissenters" to worship a they saw fit. Numerous colonies were founded on that basis. Pennsylvania expressly forbade establishment of a church.
It is right up front in the First Amendment: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." There is a reason both the establishment and free-exercise clauses start the Bill of Rights. If there was a single driving force behind the founding of the American colonies, it was religious liberty -- the right of non-Anglican "dissenters" to worship a they saw fit. Numerous colonies were founded on that basis. Pennsylvania expressly forbade establishment of a church.
April 26, 2022:
I just heard today that Gary North died on February 24, 2022. If you do not know who he is, he was a major player in pushing Christian Nationalism...and dominionism..This is one of his quotes: “Theocracy is government by God’s law--not just civil government, but all government. It is not a top-down imposition of biblical law by an elite of priests, but, in contrast, a bottom-up imposition of biblical standards over every area of life--areas not regulated by civil law for the most part--by those people who are morally responsible for making decisions. As the process of dominion extends the authority of Christians over more and more areas of life, we will see the creation of a comprehensive theocracy. It will not come as the result of some sort of ‘palace revolution.’”
Clearly, the goal was not to take over churches...but instead wanted to see all political leaders to be Christian and create Christian laws. In 1981, Mr. North wrote that “Christians must begin to organize politically within the present party structure and they must begin to infiltrate the existing institutional order.” He joined with the late RJ Rushdoony in the 70s and pushed what has been called "Christian Reconstruction"
R.J. Rushdoony and Gary North have spent their lives outlining a strategy for transforming all of culture in accordance with their understanding of “biblical law,” which they maintain is applicable not only to church life, but family life and civil affairs. The most important components of these efforts were undermining and replacing public education, because they saw Christian education as their most important tool.
What Rushdoony, with his appeal to the right wing evangelicals, provided is a package that included attacking what these fundamentalists hated and feared most in society, often expressed in terms of "This is communist. This is socialist." And remember that when you confront any of them...one of their favorites expression is to call you a a "communist" or a "socialist." It is, in essence a war cry of sorts. Very few, if any, actually would know what a "communist" or a "socialist" would look like or know what they would do if they were really confronting one.
In "Taking America Back for God: Christian Nationalism in the United States," Andrew Whitehead and Samuel Perry define Christian nationalism as “a collection of myths, traditions, symbols, narratives, and value systems — that idealizes and advocates a fusion of Christianity with American civic life…. It includes assumptions of nativism, white supremacy, patriarchy, and heteronormativity, along with divine sanction for authoritarian control and militarism. It is as ethnic and political as it is religious.”
Rachel Mivka, in an article from the USA Today in Jan 2021, wrote this about Ted Cruz:
The agenda is not always explicit. When Sen. Ted Cruz talks of “restoring” America, he means to recover what he believes is its original identity as a Christian nation. Historian John Fea argues that Cruz’s outlook reflects the Seven Mountains Dominionism of his father — a conviction that Christians are called by God to exercise dominion over every aspect of society by taking control of political and cultural institutions (religion, family, education, government, media, arts and entertainment, and business). While Cruz is too politically savvy to endorse dominion theology outright, he uses code words like “religious liberty” to sustain Christian privilege and cultural authority.
I just heard today that Gary North died on February 24, 2022. If you do not know who he is, he was a major player in pushing Christian Nationalism...and dominionism..This is one of his quotes: “Theocracy is government by God’s law--not just civil government, but all government. It is not a top-down imposition of biblical law by an elite of priests, but, in contrast, a bottom-up imposition of biblical standards over every area of life--areas not regulated by civil law for the most part--by those people who are morally responsible for making decisions. As the process of dominion extends the authority of Christians over more and more areas of life, we will see the creation of a comprehensive theocracy. It will not come as the result of some sort of ‘palace revolution.’”
Clearly, the goal was not to take over churches...but instead wanted to see all political leaders to be Christian and create Christian laws. In 1981, Mr. North wrote that “Christians must begin to organize politically within the present party structure and they must begin to infiltrate the existing institutional order.” He joined with the late RJ Rushdoony in the 70s and pushed what has been called "Christian Reconstruction"
R.J. Rushdoony and Gary North have spent their lives outlining a strategy for transforming all of culture in accordance with their understanding of “biblical law,” which they maintain is applicable not only to church life, but family life and civil affairs. The most important components of these efforts were undermining and replacing public education, because they saw Christian education as their most important tool.
What Rushdoony, with his appeal to the right wing evangelicals, provided is a package that included attacking what these fundamentalists hated and feared most in society, often expressed in terms of "This is communist. This is socialist." And remember that when you confront any of them...one of their favorites expression is to call you a a "communist" or a "socialist." It is, in essence a war cry of sorts. Very few, if any, actually would know what a "communist" or a "socialist" would look like or know what they would do if they were really confronting one.
In "Taking America Back for God: Christian Nationalism in the United States," Andrew Whitehead and Samuel Perry define Christian nationalism as “a collection of myths, traditions, symbols, narratives, and value systems — that idealizes and advocates a fusion of Christianity with American civic life…. It includes assumptions of nativism, white supremacy, patriarchy, and heteronormativity, along with divine sanction for authoritarian control and militarism. It is as ethnic and political as it is religious.”
Rachel Mivka, in an article from the USA Today in Jan 2021, wrote this about Ted Cruz:
The agenda is not always explicit. When Sen. Ted Cruz talks of “restoring” America, he means to recover what he believes is its original identity as a Christian nation. Historian John Fea argues that Cruz’s outlook reflects the Seven Mountains Dominionism of his father — a conviction that Christians are called by God to exercise dominion over every aspect of society by taking control of political and cultural institutions (religion, family, education, government, media, arts and entertainment, and business). While Cruz is too politically savvy to endorse dominion theology outright, he uses code words like “religious liberty” to sustain Christian privilege and cultural authority.
April 15, 2022:
There is a blog called "A Biblical Worldview" that adds to the name this qualification: "The most politically incorrect blog on the internet, devoted to the glory of the LORD Jesus Christ." I thought, well OK, let's see what is here. The latest post was from April 9 and titled "The End is Near." The author writes a bit of history to back his comments and then mentions, BTW, that organizations like BLM can be summarized this way: Money appears to be the goal of this group, and now that they have a lot of it from corporations and private donors alike.. ????????
But the author expands his rhetoric with comments that would make Tucker Carlson proud: Rulers in power making it illegal to buy the very medicine that would cure the ailment, they also closed businesses, caused people to lose their livelihoods, forced medical treatment on free citizens, and forced people to wear face diapers in order to manipulate them and cause psychological damage. {??} Of, course, we know who is responsible for that kind of insane rhetoric and hyperbole.
In the authors next post is titled "Black American Must Do Better" and, of course, he rates the incident with Will Smith and Chris Rock at the Oscars as a major part of his theme that "Black American Must Do Better." He then pontificates on right wing nonsense being sent around the internet. Because, you know, when you are pushing "A Biblical View" of the world..the best place to get the news is from some right wing nutjob pushing propaganda and then adding Bible verses to explain it as racist and how because of the Oscars event "black people need to do better."???really??
I, unfortunately, do have experience in understanding these right wing positions as I used to push them myself not all that long ago. The author (I have to say "the author" because I dont know if its male or female..though my guess would be that it is a white male) likely feels very smug and proud of having addressed the problem with such "Biblical" expertise. The author does use Bible verses but they are kind of a filling. The intent of the verse, in the authors mind, aids the authors worldview...but only in the authors mind. Not in the real world. But, thats how right wingers and Christian Nationalists operate. Racism doesn't count if you use Bible verses to accentuate it.
There is a blog called "A Biblical Worldview" that adds to the name this qualification: "The most politically incorrect blog on the internet, devoted to the glory of the LORD Jesus Christ." I thought, well OK, let's see what is here. The latest post was from April 9 and titled "The End is Near." The author writes a bit of history to back his comments and then mentions, BTW, that organizations like BLM can be summarized this way: Money appears to be the goal of this group, and now that they have a lot of it from corporations and private donors alike.. ????????
But the author expands his rhetoric with comments that would make Tucker Carlson proud: Rulers in power making it illegal to buy the very medicine that would cure the ailment, they also closed businesses, caused people to lose their livelihoods, forced medical treatment on free citizens, and forced people to wear face diapers in order to manipulate them and cause psychological damage. {??} Of, course, we know who is responsible for that kind of insane rhetoric and hyperbole.
In the authors next post is titled "Black American Must Do Better" and, of course, he rates the incident with Will Smith and Chris Rock at the Oscars as a major part of his theme that "Black American Must Do Better." He then pontificates on right wing nonsense being sent around the internet. Because, you know, when you are pushing "A Biblical View" of the world..the best place to get the news is from some right wing nutjob pushing propaganda and then adding Bible verses to explain it as racist and how because of the Oscars event "black people need to do better."???really??
I, unfortunately, do have experience in understanding these right wing positions as I used to push them myself not all that long ago. The author (I have to say "the author" because I dont know if its male or female..though my guess would be that it is a white male) likely feels very smug and proud of having addressed the problem with such "Biblical" expertise. The author does use Bible verses but they are kind of a filling. The intent of the verse, in the authors mind, aids the authors worldview...but only in the authors mind. Not in the real world. But, thats how right wingers and Christian Nationalists operate. Racism doesn't count if you use Bible verses to accentuate it.
“We found that even after we accounted for Americans’ religious, political, and demographic characteristics, those who more strongly affirmed Christian nationalism were more likely to belief false things about religion’s place in American history,” Perry told PsyPost. “They were more likely to believe, for example, that the US Constitution references our country’s obligations to God several times (it does not), that the First Amendment says Congress could make laws privileging Christianity (it does not), or that the Supreme Court made it illegal to pray or read your Bible in public schools (it did not).”
“We also show this isn’t necessarily connected to lack of education or lack of confidence in one’s answers. In fact, we show that the more Americans affirm Christian nationalism, they’re more likely to give confident wrong answers. That suggests there’s something ideological going on here. Americans who believe Christianity should have a more central role in American society today tend to reinterpret history with that in mind.” -Eric W Dolan; PsyPost
“We also show this isn’t necessarily connected to lack of education or lack of confidence in one’s answers. In fact, we show that the more Americans affirm Christian nationalism, they’re more likely to give confident wrong answers. That suggests there’s something ideological going on here. Americans who believe Christianity should have a more central role in American society today tend to reinterpret history with that in mind.” -Eric W Dolan; PsyPost
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Since the American Revolution, we have seen some Christians connect the Kingdom of God with the United States. Based on their interpretation of "Manifest Destiny," some have even called America the "New Israel" because they claim this nation was the only other nation besides Israel that was founded upon a covenant with God. For example, when men signed the Mayflower compact and initiated a covenant with God. However, Abraham, the father of Israel, never initiated a covenant with God. God initiated it with Abraham and the nation of Israel (Genesis 15:7-20; Hebrews 6:13-19).
In recent days, some of the so-called prophets and their followers seemed to connect the Kingdom of God with the political destiny of America, with some even saying that Donald Trump has been crowned as the only recognized U.S. president in Heaven. Connecting any political party, person or secular movement with the Kingdom is unbiblical. The Kingdom transcends all nations and systems and never depends upon a top-down political control to prosecute the will of God. -Joseph Mattera |
March 5, 2022:
Pastor Cary Gordon has an article posted at "The Gatekeepers" titled "Destruction of liberty must continue in America until we repent for how we elect our leaders." In it he lists 9 bullet points which describes how a person should be picked as President. He used Deuteronomy 17 as his framework. His first point is that the leader "Must be chosen by God (Vs. 15) through God's delegated ecclesiastical authority, not by lawless populism." and it goes on in a way any Christian Nationalist would be quite proud of. It does more than erode Democracy but destroys it completely..which may be insight as to why the GOP nationalists dont seem bothers by their anti democratic efforts. I would be curious if Trump is still the one "chosen by God" or many of the other Republican congressmen and governors who seem to be making effort to usurp America as it is and create their own government. His article ends with "American antinomianism has usurped every single one of these immutable and wise plumb-line standards for office-holders. Destruction of liberty must continue in America until we repent for costuming our political and legal foolishness with counterfeit grace arguments to justify disobedience." Though in his mind it is clear he means something else but he is essentially a gospel of fascism.
Pastor Cary Gordon has an article posted at "The Gatekeepers" titled "Destruction of liberty must continue in America until we repent for how we elect our leaders." In it he lists 9 bullet points which describes how a person should be picked as President. He used Deuteronomy 17 as his framework. His first point is that the leader "Must be chosen by God (Vs. 15) through God's delegated ecclesiastical authority, not by lawless populism." and it goes on in a way any Christian Nationalist would be quite proud of. It does more than erode Democracy but destroys it completely..which may be insight as to why the GOP nationalists dont seem bothers by their anti democratic efforts. I would be curious if Trump is still the one "chosen by God" or many of the other Republican congressmen and governors who seem to be making effort to usurp America as it is and create their own government. His article ends with "American antinomianism has usurped every single one of these immutable and wise plumb-line standards for office-holders. Destruction of liberty must continue in America until we repent for costuming our political and legal foolishness with counterfeit grace arguments to justify disobedience." Though in his mind it is clear he means something else but he is essentially a gospel of fascism.
Feb 25, 2022: Right Wing Watch: US Far Right Adores Vladimir Putin’s Christian Nationalism More Than Freedom and Democracy
Lauren Witzke, the Republican Party’s nominee for U.S. Senate from Delaware in 2020, gushed with praise for Vladimir Putin this week after the Russian dictator unleashed a military invasion against Ukraine. While somewhat shocking given the timing, Witzke’s admiration of Putin’s “Christian nationalism” has a long precedent among U.S. Christian right leaders, who embraced Putin as a “savior of Christian civilization” during the Obama administration.
Lauren Witzke, the Republican Party’s nominee for U.S. Senate from Delaware in 2020, gushed with praise for Vladimir Putin this week after the Russian dictator unleashed a military invasion against Ukraine. While somewhat shocking given the timing, Witzke’s admiration of Putin’s “Christian nationalism” has a long precedent among U.S. Christian right leaders, who embraced Putin as a “savior of Christian civilization” during the Obama administration.
| As I understand it, Christian nationalism is an idea now widely accepted within the evangelical church that the U.S. is a Christian nation founded upon Christian principles — no matter what it may say in the Constitution. This commitment to the Christian faith, as a nation, is the reason God blessed the U.S. as the greatest nation that ever existed. God will only continue to bless this nation, however, as long as it remains a Christian nation. As America becomes more progressive and increasingly secular in terms of politics, culture and faith, then in this view God will remove his blessing and protection and great evils will befall our nation.
This remarkable theory has no connection to any of the teachings of Jesus Christ or his followers, and is completely irrelevant to the Christian faith. |
Feb 20, 2022: Alter Net: Evangelical minister: Christian nationalism is a bizarre, misogynist fantasy — and totally un-Christian
When contemporary evangelical leaders push a message around Christian nationalism, I can promise you it always refers back to a time when the "traditional" roles of American households held fast. Making America "great again" is truly about bringing back a time when women were subject to their husbands' wills and whims, and the husbands were lords of the house.
When contemporary evangelical leaders push a message around Christian nationalism, I can promise you it always refers back to a time when the "traditional" roles of American households held fast. Making America "great again" is truly about bringing back a time when women were subject to their husbands' wills and whims, and the husbands were lords of the house.
February 7, 2022:
Freedom of Religion is a cornerstone of American Democracy. Conservative Right wing Republicans think that "Religion" only applies to them. I understand that cuz I also applied it that way once upon a time. Some of my earliest Christian theology came from "dominionism" teachers and authors....and helped to create my early Christian worldview.
I believe, however, that the push for Christian Nationalism is going to have a bad end. These right wingers are conflating God with Country and if they succeed...based on how they interpret their efforts..it will be fascist...and something they seem to be proud of doing "for God, Guns, and Country."
God is not behind any move to subvert any country for Guns, Country or any political party or notion. AND God is not going to share His glory with the Republican Party, nor any other party or political effort. Lots of people thought they were doing things for God and discovered that unless God actually tells you to do it..then they shouldnt have. Clearly the worst thing any human being will ever hear will be to stand before Jesus one day, account for their life and actions..and hear the dreadful "Go away..I never knew you."
"I never knew you" at that point is forever.
Matthew 24: 6-9 states: You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.
These things have been happening to some degree for quite awhile...but they are only getting more intense. Pandemics, rumors of war (Ukraine, Afghanistan, etc...and, I mean, look what's going on in Canada--of all places one of the most peaceful countries ever..but "kingdom against kingdom."....as we are also seeing here in the USA...and Australia..and others.....world wide inflation and devalue of money.
Matthew 24:9: Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me.
Because of Christian Nationalism, Christians are taking a pretty big PR hit worldwide (some countries--India is one-- can arrest and jail a Christian if they attempt to simply "witness" to someone in hopes of converting to Christianity.....this is because of internal rage within...Add some external world wide hatred from some growing special interest groups...and Christianity becomes the enemy and Matthew 24:9 becomes real. ..and we may not be that far away from it as it continues to grow. Just this morning I heard someone refer to it as "Christian Supremacy" ....and I cannot deny that "supremacy" IS a part of that movement. That's actually what inspired this rant/vent...which I normally do best by writing. It helps me with clarity and understanding.
Freedom of Religion is a cornerstone of American Democracy. Conservative Right wing Republicans think that "Religion" only applies to them. I understand that cuz I also applied it that way once upon a time. Some of my earliest Christian theology came from "dominionism" teachers and authors....and helped to create my early Christian worldview.
I believe, however, that the push for Christian Nationalism is going to have a bad end. These right wingers are conflating God with Country and if they succeed...based on how they interpret their efforts..it will be fascist...and something they seem to be proud of doing "for God, Guns, and Country."
God is not behind any move to subvert any country for Guns, Country or any political party or notion. AND God is not going to share His glory with the Republican Party, nor any other party or political effort. Lots of people thought they were doing things for God and discovered that unless God actually tells you to do it..then they shouldnt have. Clearly the worst thing any human being will ever hear will be to stand before Jesus one day, account for their life and actions..and hear the dreadful "Go away..I never knew you."
"I never knew you" at that point is forever.
Matthew 24: 6-9 states: You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.
These things have been happening to some degree for quite awhile...but they are only getting more intense. Pandemics, rumors of war (Ukraine, Afghanistan, etc...and, I mean, look what's going on in Canada--of all places one of the most peaceful countries ever..but "kingdom against kingdom."....as we are also seeing here in the USA...and Australia..and others.....world wide inflation and devalue of money.
Matthew 24:9: Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me.
Because of Christian Nationalism, Christians are taking a pretty big PR hit worldwide (some countries--India is one-- can arrest and jail a Christian if they attempt to simply "witness" to someone in hopes of converting to Christianity.....this is because of internal rage within...Add some external world wide hatred from some growing special interest groups...and Christianity becomes the enemy and Matthew 24:9 becomes real. ..and we may not be that far away from it as it continues to grow. Just this morning I heard someone refer to it as "Christian Supremacy" ....and I cannot deny that "supremacy" IS a part of that movement. That's actually what inspired this rant/vent...which I normally do best by writing. It helps me with clarity and understanding.
February 7, 2022:
I read an article posted at American Vision and written by Gary Demar. In an article titled The Private-Zoo Factor Demar makes some pretty major justifications for Christian Nationalism...., though, of course, he does not ever use the word "Christian Nationalist." As a general rule they do not use it because they dont want to claim the title. They just believe they are part of God's army.
He (Demar) interestingly does use the Bible but once he throws up a verse he continually goes on to say that it doesn't really mean what it says and even does it in a way that makes it seem legit. As a foundation of where he is going with the article he mentions a comment made by Theodore Roszak, an academic and author, who wrote books and articles about the counter culture in the late 60s. Demar seems to build his arguments as a springboard against an observation by Roszak who said that Christians are “Socially irrelevant, even if privately engaging.” (Roszak died in 2011). Demar then goes through ten bullet points of things he may have heard Christian leaders say and why he thinks they are wrong. I wont go through all of them as you can read the article.
One of his points is: "Jesus didn’t get mixed up in politics, so why should we?" in which he rationalizes:
"There are many things Jesus didn’t do. He didn’t get married, have children, or own a home. Should we follow His example in these areas?"
Jesus didnt kill anyone either so should we follow His example in that area? Where do you draw the line?
His 5th point is:
"There’s a separation between church and state"
and he explains:
"The Bible teaches that there is a jurisdictional separation between church and state, but there is no separation between God and government, and that includes civil government."
That is a foundation of Christian Nationalist.
Yes, God has no separation, but He also has not greenlighted an effort to subvert the government believing God is on your side. It is very likely that will have a bad end on so many levels. Demar gives another greenlight on his 6th point:
"Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world" and explains:
"God’s kingdom does not derive its power and authority from this world, but His kingdom is in and over this world whether people acknowledge it or not. We are to pray, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt. 7:10). Doing God’s will is the manifestation of kingdom living."
That is more foundational stuff for Christian Nationalism and a supporter of dominionism would love to hear that kind of stuff. His point ten directly counters what Jesus said when He said "We must render to Caesar what’s Caesar’s." Demar's counter argument to that is:
"We don’t live under Caesar. We live under a constitution, and we can remove and replace elected officials and “petition the government for a redress of grievances”.
Hear that, Jesus? You were wrong about that "render unto Ceasar" nonsense?? He puts (First Amendment) in parenthesis...noting, it appears that the First Amendment trumps what Jesus said.
Demar, by the way, wrote a book titled "Myths Lies and Half Truths" and addresses how Christians have been such failures. It is likely a favorite of Christian Nationalists as it bolsters their confidence in what they think God wants them to do. Based on the article, the answer to the failures so far is Christian Nationalism. Take over America for Jesus...by whatever means possible since we dont live under Caesar.
I read an article posted at American Vision and written by Gary Demar. In an article titled The Private-Zoo Factor Demar makes some pretty major justifications for Christian Nationalism...., though, of course, he does not ever use the word "Christian Nationalist." As a general rule they do not use it because they dont want to claim the title. They just believe they are part of God's army.
He (Demar) interestingly does use the Bible but once he throws up a verse he continually goes on to say that it doesn't really mean what it says and even does it in a way that makes it seem legit. As a foundation of where he is going with the article he mentions a comment made by Theodore Roszak, an academic and author, who wrote books and articles about the counter culture in the late 60s. Demar seems to build his arguments as a springboard against an observation by Roszak who said that Christians are “Socially irrelevant, even if privately engaging.” (Roszak died in 2011). Demar then goes through ten bullet points of things he may have heard Christian leaders say and why he thinks they are wrong. I wont go through all of them as you can read the article.
One of his points is: "Jesus didn’t get mixed up in politics, so why should we?" in which he rationalizes:
"There are many things Jesus didn’t do. He didn’t get married, have children, or own a home. Should we follow His example in these areas?"
Jesus didnt kill anyone either so should we follow His example in that area? Where do you draw the line?
His 5th point is:
"There’s a separation between church and state"
and he explains:
"The Bible teaches that there is a jurisdictional separation between church and state, but there is no separation between God and government, and that includes civil government."
That is a foundation of Christian Nationalist.
Yes, God has no separation, but He also has not greenlighted an effort to subvert the government believing God is on your side. It is very likely that will have a bad end on so many levels. Demar gives another greenlight on his 6th point:
"Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world" and explains:
"God’s kingdom does not derive its power and authority from this world, but His kingdom is in and over this world whether people acknowledge it or not. We are to pray, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt. 7:10). Doing God’s will is the manifestation of kingdom living."
That is more foundational stuff for Christian Nationalism and a supporter of dominionism would love to hear that kind of stuff. His point ten directly counters what Jesus said when He said "We must render to Caesar what’s Caesar’s." Demar's counter argument to that is:
"We don’t live under Caesar. We live under a constitution, and we can remove and replace elected officials and “petition the government for a redress of grievances”.
Hear that, Jesus? You were wrong about that "render unto Ceasar" nonsense?? He puts (First Amendment) in parenthesis...noting, it appears that the First Amendment trumps what Jesus said.
Demar, by the way, wrote a book titled "Myths Lies and Half Truths" and addresses how Christians have been such failures. It is likely a favorite of Christian Nationalists as it bolsters their confidence in what they think God wants them to do. Based on the article, the answer to the failures so far is Christian Nationalism. Take over America for Jesus...by whatever means possible since we dont live under Caesar.
Feb 6, 2022: Americans United: Christian Nationalists To America: 'Don't Look Up!'
A few weeks ago, I sat down with my family to watch “Don’t Look Up,” currently streaming on Netflix. There’s been a lot of buzz about this movie, so if you haven’t seen it, I recommend you do. Why? Because its message is relevant to the work we do here at Americans United.
A few weeks ago, I sat down with my family to watch “Don’t Look Up,” currently streaming on Netflix. There’s been a lot of buzz about this movie, so if you haven’t seen it, I recommend you do. Why? Because its message is relevant to the work we do here at Americans United.
February 5, 2021:
I saw most of Marjorie Taylor Greene's press conference. She could very well be the next Trump-swamp queen. Trump never knew much about Christianity so he didnt use the language. Greene appears to know something about it.
MTG spouted all kind of Christianese while at the same time demonizing everyone and everything that did not think like she does. Jeremiah came to mind after contemplation on her speech. “From the least to the greatest,
all are greedy for gain;
prophets and priests alike,
all practice deceit.
They dress the wound of my people
as though it were not serious.
‘Peace, peace,’ they say,
when there is no peace.” (Jer 8).
The tongue is a powerful force and when you break it down most of politics is about using and confronting that force. Today she claimed "peace" while, at the same time in the same press conference pushed back against Democrats & socialism and even the press because she didnt like being asked certain questions and pushing her red herring world views.
She is now playing the victim card after she was removed from committees and lashed out against all the Democrats and the 11 Republicans who voted to have her removed.
She may be the new Poster Child for Christian Nationalism.
I saw most of Marjorie Taylor Greene's press conference. She could very well be the next Trump-swamp queen. Trump never knew much about Christianity so he didnt use the language. Greene appears to know something about it.
MTG spouted all kind of Christianese while at the same time demonizing everyone and everything that did not think like she does. Jeremiah came to mind after contemplation on her speech. “From the least to the greatest,
all are greedy for gain;
prophets and priests alike,
all practice deceit.
They dress the wound of my people
as though it were not serious.
‘Peace, peace,’ they say,
when there is no peace.” (Jer 8).
The tongue is a powerful force and when you break it down most of politics is about using and confronting that force. Today she claimed "peace" while, at the same time in the same press conference pushed back against Democrats & socialism and even the press because she didnt like being asked certain questions and pushing her red herring world views.
She is now playing the victim card after she was removed from committees and lashed out against all the Democrats and the 11 Republicans who voted to have her removed.
She may be the new Poster Child for Christian Nationalism.
Jan 31, 2022: Pheonix New Times: Why is a Symbol of Christian Nationalism Hanging in the Arizona House?
The “pine tree flag” is centuries old, once flown during the American Revolution and the early colonial days.
In recent years, though, the banner has been adopted by some evangelicals, becoming an emblem of far-right Christian nationalism.
Pine tree flags, for instance, flew alongside Trump 2020 banners and confederate flags on January 6 last year.
The “pine tree flag” is centuries old, once flown during the American Revolution and the early colonial days.
In recent years, though, the banner has been adopted by some evangelicals, becoming an emblem of far-right Christian nationalism.
Pine tree flags, for instance, flew alongside Trump 2020 banners and confederate flags on January 6 last year.
Jan 28, 2022: Religion News Service: How the Capitol attacks helped spread Christian nationalism in the extreme right
For many in the right-wing extremist fringe, Christian nationalism is becoming a shared language.
For many in the right-wing extremist fringe, Christian nationalism is becoming a shared language.
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Jan 28, 2022: Religion News Service: The deadly dogmatism of Christian nationalism
As the nation remembered the Capitol riots on Jan. 6 earlier this month, a deluge of articles highlighted the role of white Christian nationalism and its ongoing threat to democracy. This was absolutely necessary. Yet, white Christian nationalism has been tied to an even greater crisis over the past year, namely, the COVID-19 pandemic and widespread reluctance to get vaccinated.
As the nation remembered the Capitol riots on Jan. 6 earlier this month, a deluge of articles highlighted the role of white Christian nationalism and its ongoing threat to democracy. This was absolutely necessary. Yet, white Christian nationalism has been tied to an even greater crisis over the past year, namely, the COVID-19 pandemic and widespread reluctance to get vaccinated.
Jan 27, 2022: Berkshire Edge: Christian Nationalism is a danger to religious liberty
At a Texas rally on November 13, 2021, Michael Flynn, a Trump ally, vigorously advocated: “If we are going to have one nation under God, which we must, we have to have one religion, one nation under God, and one religion under God.”
At a Texas rally on November 13, 2021, Michael Flynn, a Trump ally, vigorously advocated: “If we are going to have one nation under God, which we must, we have to have one religion, one nation under God, and one religion under God.”
| Christian nationalism....didn’t necessarily coincide with ignorance. Rather, it reflected a powerful dogmatism that rejected any facts that were inconsistent with cherished narratives. |
Jan 26, 2022: Religion News Service: How the Capitol attacks helped spread Christian nationalism in the extreme right
When supporters of former President Donald Trump rallied near the White House on Jan. 6 of last year, a boisterous pocket of young men waving “America First” flags broke into a chant: “Christ is King!” It was one of the first indications that Christian nationalism would be a theme of the Capitol attack later that day, where insurrectionists prayed and waved banners that read “Proud American Christian.”
When supporters of former President Donald Trump rallied near the White House on Jan. 6 of last year, a boisterous pocket of young men waving “America First” flags broke into a chant: “Christ is King!” It was one of the first indications that Christian nationalism would be a theme of the Capitol attack later that day, where insurrectionists prayed and waved banners that read “Proud American Christian.”
| “Christian nationalism has a deep history in America’s racist right-wing, said Kelly J. Baker, author of “Gospel According to the Klan: The KKK’s Appeal to Protestant America, 1915-1930.” Fuentes’ rhetoric “could have come word for word from a Klan speech in 1922,” she said. “The Klan’s goal here was patriotism and nationalism, but it was combined with their focus on white Christianity.”
Intermingling patriotism and piety has become common even among groups better known for nationalist violence than adherence to a particular faith. The Proud Boys, a chauvinist organization whose members trampled and burned Black Lives Matter banners at Washington, D.C., churches a year ago, were spotted praying together the morning of the insurrection." |
| “"Christian nationalist ideology — particularly when it is held by white Americans — is fundamentally anti-democratic because its goal isn’t 'government of the people, by the people, and for the people.' Its goal is power. Specifically, power for 'true Americans like us,' Christians in an almost ethnic sense, those who belong — the worthy. Stemming from this, the most salient threat white Christian nationalism poses to democracy is that it seeks to undermine the very foundation of democracy itself: voting." |
Jan 19, 2022: Baptist News Global: They spoke out against the Capitol insurrection; one year later, they’re no longer pastors
Brandon Long wanted the doctrine of “redemption” to be the hill he would die on. Instead, the doctrine of evangelical loyalty to Donald Trump was his demise as a pastor.
Brandon Long wanted the doctrine of “redemption” to be the hill he would die on. Instead, the doctrine of evangelical loyalty to Donald Trump was his demise as a pastor.
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January 19, 2022:
The mission of American Family Association states it "is to inform, equip, and activate individuals and families to transform American culture and to give aid to the church, here and abroad, in its calling to fulfill the Great Commission. " The problem with AFA, though is that it is pushing Christian Nationalism as it's methodology. Their vision: "is to be a leading organization in biblical worldview training for cultural transformation." There is some truth to that. That is pretty much what they are doing. "In Jesus name" or with the "power of God", are missing in their efforts, for the most part.
The mission of American Family Association states it "is to inform, equip, and activate individuals and families to transform American culture and to give aid to the church, here and abroad, in its calling to fulfill the Great Commission. " The problem with AFA, though is that it is pushing Christian Nationalism as it's methodology. Their vision: "is to be a leading organization in biblical worldview training for cultural transformation." There is some truth to that. That is pretty much what they are doing. "In Jesus name" or with the "power of God", are missing in their efforts, for the most part.
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Jan 12, 2022: Freelance Christianity: Throwing Away the Image of God
At the beginning of a recent episode of “Consider This,” NPR’s daily afternoon news podcast, Rev. Jim Wallis, the chair of the Faith and Justice Center at Georgetown University, commented on the fact that many of those who participated in the January 6th, 2021 Capitol insurrection began their activities with a prayer thanking God for “gracing us with this opportunity to stand up for our God-given unalienable rights.” While part of the motivation for the insurrectionists that day was the “Big Lie” that the November 2020 election had been stolen, Wallis focused his attention elsewhere.
At the beginning of a recent episode of “Consider This,” NPR’s daily afternoon news podcast, Rev. Jim Wallis, the chair of the Faith and Justice Center at Georgetown University, commented on the fact that many of those who participated in the January 6th, 2021 Capitol insurrection began their activities with a prayer thanking God for “gracing us with this opportunity to stand up for our God-given unalienable rights.” While part of the motivation for the insurrectionists that day was the “Big Lie” that the November 2020 election had been stolen, Wallis focused his attention elsewhere.
Jan 12, 2022: Bills Faith Matters Blog: The continuing threat of Christian nationalism
Even on Jan. 6, 2021, I knew that in some strange way religion was part of the story of the bloody insurrection at the nation's Capitol building.
Even on Jan. 6, 2021, I knew that in some strange way religion was part of the story of the bloody insurrection at the nation's Capitol building.
January 9, 2022:
I listened to a short video today by a preacher named Perry Stone. It was short but it caught my attention so I started listening to another one by him and it went south real quick as he started making him the subject and started making it clear that God was giving him prophetic insights that most people wouldn't understand and then going into politics and banging that Christian Nationalist gong.
I put his name in google and apparently he has a lot of sexual misconduct charges against him lately.
That would probably make sense because the "faux" in Christian Nationalist would not really have a moral compass. Which makes Trump the ultimate poster boy for Christian Nationalism
I listened to a short video today by a preacher named Perry Stone. It was short but it caught my attention so I started listening to another one by him and it went south real quick as he started making him the subject and started making it clear that God was giving him prophetic insights that most people wouldn't understand and then going into politics and banging that Christian Nationalist gong.
I put his name in google and apparently he has a lot of sexual misconduct charges against him lately.
That would probably make sense because the "faux" in Christian Nationalist would not really have a moral compass. Which makes Trump the ultimate poster boy for Christian Nationalism
December 21, 2021:
CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM RISING (still): Re: Donald Trump Jr
Donald Trump Jr. told young Republicans attending a conference Sunday that biblical teachings have gotten the party nowhere after damning new texts revealed he was aware of the magnitude of the Capitol riots.
'We've turned the other cheek and I understand the biblical reference, I understand the mentality,' he said. 'But it's gotten us nothing."
Where they go now carrying that kind of religious dogma can be dangerous.
The problem is that they will use the Bible and God as an excuse to continue to push racism and fascism. Similar to what happened in the the 1930s with Hitler. He used the Bible and Christianity to gain followers and then when he had Naziism locked into place...he became a dictator. Granted, it wont gain them anything eternally..but short sighted Christianity never has. Its temporal fruit, though, is a dangerous dogma.
The US is “closer to civil war than any of us would like to believe”, a member of a key CIA advisory panel has said. The analysis by Barbara F Walter, a political science professor at the University of California at San Diego who sits on the Political Instability Task Force, is contained in a book due out next year and first reported by the Washington Post.
CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM RISING (still): Re: Donald Trump Jr
Donald Trump Jr. told young Republicans attending a conference Sunday that biblical teachings have gotten the party nowhere after damning new texts revealed he was aware of the magnitude of the Capitol riots.
'We've turned the other cheek and I understand the biblical reference, I understand the mentality,' he said. 'But it's gotten us nothing."
Where they go now carrying that kind of religious dogma can be dangerous.
The problem is that they will use the Bible and God as an excuse to continue to push racism and fascism. Similar to what happened in the the 1930s with Hitler. He used the Bible and Christianity to gain followers and then when he had Naziism locked into place...he became a dictator. Granted, it wont gain them anything eternally..but short sighted Christianity never has. Its temporal fruit, though, is a dangerous dogma.
The US is “closer to civil war than any of us would like to believe”, a member of a key CIA advisory panel has said. The analysis by Barbara F Walter, a political science professor at the University of California at San Diego who sits on the Political Instability Task Force, is contained in a book due out next year and first reported by the Washington Post.
December 16, 2021:
This paragraph is from an article from Charisma News:
As the popularity of the tour grew and the demand for Clark to appear on various media outlets rose, someone sent him the Kim Clement prophecy from April 20, 2013, that seems to have a clear connection to his calling to reawaken America. It mentions a "man by the name of Mr. Clark," and says in part, "You have been determined through your prayers to influence this nation. You're watching me; you're an influential person. The Spirit of God says, 'Hear the word of the prophet to you as a king, I will open that door that you prayed about.'"
In essence, it is Christian Nationalism in its formative stages in the Charismatic movement today. Clay Clark is a part of the "Reawaken America" (being sponsored by Charisma Magazine) tour. To begin with, a prophecy only points to revelation about Jesus Christ. Clark, for the record, is NOT Jesus...though he appears to claim a relationship. Kim Clement is a faux self-proclaimed prophet and has been spewing pro-Trump "prophecies" for a few years now. Don't be deceived. Clark is a grifting charlatan who uses worse from the Bible to meet his end. Good and bad things came out of the Charismatic Movement...but more bad than good...and a lot of hurt people who may have walked away from God forever because of it. Fellow members of Reawaken America include Michale Flynn, Roger Stone, Mike Lindell, Sam Sorbo, Sidney Powell, Alan Keyes, Alex Jones, Lara Logan and Ken Paxton, among others.
The thing that makes people like Cark dangerous is that they believe they are on a mission from God.
This paragraph is from an article from Charisma News:
As the popularity of the tour grew and the demand for Clark to appear on various media outlets rose, someone sent him the Kim Clement prophecy from April 20, 2013, that seems to have a clear connection to his calling to reawaken America. It mentions a "man by the name of Mr. Clark," and says in part, "You have been determined through your prayers to influence this nation. You're watching me; you're an influential person. The Spirit of God says, 'Hear the word of the prophet to you as a king, I will open that door that you prayed about.'"
In essence, it is Christian Nationalism in its formative stages in the Charismatic movement today. Clay Clark is a part of the "Reawaken America" (being sponsored by Charisma Magazine) tour. To begin with, a prophecy only points to revelation about Jesus Christ. Clark, for the record, is NOT Jesus...though he appears to claim a relationship. Kim Clement is a faux self-proclaimed prophet and has been spewing pro-Trump "prophecies" for a few years now. Don't be deceived. Clark is a grifting charlatan who uses worse from the Bible to meet his end. Good and bad things came out of the Charismatic Movement...but more bad than good...and a lot of hurt people who may have walked away from God forever because of it. Fellow members of Reawaken America include Michale Flynn, Roger Stone, Mike Lindell, Sam Sorbo, Sidney Powell, Alan Keyes, Alex Jones, Lara Logan and Ken Paxton, among others.
The thing that makes people like Cark dangerous is that they believe they are on a mission from God.
December 13, 2021:
The American family Association, based out of here in Mississippi, is looking to establish a center "like a Pentagon" in order to furth er efforts of Christian Nationalism. The announcement with a plea for donations (something Wildmon, the founder, has been doing many many many years) Part of the description says "Like the Pentagon in Washington, the Don Wildmon Center will serve as command central as we combat the forces that seek to destroy Christian influence in America and overthrow the founding principles of our republic."
If you look at other parts of the website the "action alerts" are just a litany of far right wing agendas. They "hold to a form of godliness but deny the power thereof." (II Tim 3) (Which is, in essence, a foundation of what "Christian Nationalism" is) Link is Here: https://www.afa.net/donwildmoncenter?fbclid=IwAR0VA9LSIgBqlxhLxEonnuEfw5bXBimVo6e9vGzP-WCmDVzDTLBiKmm5j9Y
The American family Association, based out of here in Mississippi, is looking to establish a center "like a Pentagon" in order to furth er efforts of Christian Nationalism. The announcement with a plea for donations (something Wildmon, the founder, has been doing many many many years) Part of the description says "Like the Pentagon in Washington, the Don Wildmon Center will serve as command central as we combat the forces that seek to destroy Christian influence in America and overthrow the founding principles of our republic."
If you look at other parts of the website the "action alerts" are just a litany of far right wing agendas. They "hold to a form of godliness but deny the power thereof." (II Tim 3) (Which is, in essence, a foundation of what "Christian Nationalism" is) Link is Here: https://www.afa.net/donwildmoncenter?fbclid=IwAR0VA9LSIgBqlxhLxEonnuEfw5bXBimVo6e9vGzP-WCmDVzDTLBiKmm5j9Y
December 8, 2021:
Found this from an article posted at Wesmont College:
Implying that Americans are blessed by God simply for being Americans cheapens the biblical concept of blessing and often equates it with material prosperity. What about those Christians living and often suffering in other lands? Are we blessed by God and they are not? What about the dirt-poor Pentecostals in Ukraine who in Soviet times suffered because of their faith? Are we blessed by God and they are not? The lyrics of “God Bless America” are not statements of fact. They are, in fact, a prayer. In 1938, that is what Irving Berlin had in mind.
While studying recently I came across this quote: “Treason is in the air around us everywhere. It goes by the name of patriotism.” -Ambrose Bierce (Civil War era). Reminds me of a quote (attributed to several people) that says "when facism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross."
That kind of conflation I mentioned above could easily set a lot of people up for such a person...and I think it is a large part of what drives the hard core Trumplicans for Trump.
Found this from an article posted at Wesmont College:
Implying that Americans are blessed by God simply for being Americans cheapens the biblical concept of blessing and often equates it with material prosperity. What about those Christians living and often suffering in other lands? Are we blessed by God and they are not? What about the dirt-poor Pentecostals in Ukraine who in Soviet times suffered because of their faith? Are we blessed by God and they are not? The lyrics of “God Bless America” are not statements of fact. They are, in fact, a prayer. In 1938, that is what Irving Berlin had in mind.
While studying recently I came across this quote: “Treason is in the air around us everywhere. It goes by the name of patriotism.” -Ambrose Bierce (Civil War era). Reminds me of a quote (attributed to several people) that says "when facism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross."
That kind of conflation I mentioned above could easily set a lot of people up for such a person...and I think it is a large part of what drives the hard core Trumplicans for Trump.
Oct 18, 2021:
Going forward I will use "Religious Nationalism" instead of "Christian Nationalism." Christianity is already taking a big hit via the "Nationalism" and the non religious just see the word "Christian" and there are already many Anti-theism folks ready to pounce on Christianity. The big issue right now is lots of calls for taxing the church because of politics. The condition of the non tax status is to keep church and state separate as per the Constitution. So I am not in favor of taxing all the churches, but I believe the ones that are pushing politics should have their tax exempt status removed. If you havent noticed..the most vocal Religious Nationalists leaders usually come from Mega-churches who push tithing and, hence, always seem to have unending bankrolls of money.
I Came across a great example of Religious Nationalism today while looking at an Iowa newspaper. Written by several Iowa pastors, It states: Whereas, God is the ultimate and highest authority, and his laws are the highest laws; and Whereas, masks cover the image of God by obscuring personal identity and violate the holy law of God by restraining the healthy in place of the symptomatic sick;
Keeping people healthy violates the holy law of God???
And the mask shouldn't be worn because it "covers the image of God??"
This has got to be a horrible revelation if you live on really cold parts of the country...like Iowa, for instance. And what about those sunglasses that covers the eyes of God's creation??? I cant imagine why the logic didnt push itself to its end and start condemning people for wearing any clothes at all because it would cover man who was made in Gods image.
The article goes on and conflates the Constitution on an even level with God's Holy law. There are a lot of people pushing Religious Nationalism ideas who are totally oblivious to the fact they are doing it because they see little to no difference between doing Gods will and pushing a political agenda. As I have stated before, we are seeing the culmination of a generation of Christian Americans who believe that the only way to serve God is through politics.....and the idea is to win political points for Jesus. (however they are scored)
Going forward I will use "Religious Nationalism" instead of "Christian Nationalism." Christianity is already taking a big hit via the "Nationalism" and the non religious just see the word "Christian" and there are already many Anti-theism folks ready to pounce on Christianity. The big issue right now is lots of calls for taxing the church because of politics. The condition of the non tax status is to keep church and state separate as per the Constitution. So I am not in favor of taxing all the churches, but I believe the ones that are pushing politics should have their tax exempt status removed. If you havent noticed..the most vocal Religious Nationalists leaders usually come from Mega-churches who push tithing and, hence, always seem to have unending bankrolls of money.
I Came across a great example of Religious Nationalism today while looking at an Iowa newspaper. Written by several Iowa pastors, It states: Whereas, God is the ultimate and highest authority, and his laws are the highest laws; and Whereas, masks cover the image of God by obscuring personal identity and violate the holy law of God by restraining the healthy in place of the symptomatic sick;
Keeping people healthy violates the holy law of God???
And the mask shouldn't be worn because it "covers the image of God??"
This has got to be a horrible revelation if you live on really cold parts of the country...like Iowa, for instance. And what about those sunglasses that covers the eyes of God's creation??? I cant imagine why the logic didnt push itself to its end and start condemning people for wearing any clothes at all because it would cover man who was made in Gods image.
The article goes on and conflates the Constitution on an even level with God's Holy law. There are a lot of people pushing Religious Nationalism ideas who are totally oblivious to the fact they are doing it because they see little to no difference between doing Gods will and pushing a political agenda. As I have stated before, we are seeing the culmination of a generation of Christian Americans who believe that the only way to serve God is through politics.....and the idea is to win political points for Jesus. (however they are scored)
October 11, 2021:
I believe we are seeing the culmination of an entire generation of American church goers who have been raised their entire life believing that the only productive thing you could do "for Jesus" is to do something with politics.
I think abortion became the topping on that cake. Apparently you could commit many sine but the unforgivable one was abortion..or just not being against it.
The roots of that can be found in the teachings of the late Francis Schaeffer who a few years before he died proclaimed that the most important thing that Christians should be defeating is abortion. Schaeffer carried a lot of weight with the nondeminational/charismatic movements; along with the southern Baptists. That was about 7 years after Roe v Wade. Schaeffer was friends with Dr C Everett Koop who also became a mouthpiece pushing against abortion. Schaeffer died in 1984 but, then, Ronald Reagan made Koop his surgeon general...and voila...the movement began. I was there at the beginning and, at the time, went right along with it. I became a political activist for Jesus. Initially a Democrat... I was told that being a Democrat was not a good Christian witness (by my pastor) and joined the Republicans and the Reagan revolution "for Jesus."
And this is where we are.
I believe we are seeing the culmination of an entire generation of American church goers who have been raised their entire life believing that the only productive thing you could do "for Jesus" is to do something with politics.
I think abortion became the topping on that cake. Apparently you could commit many sine but the unforgivable one was abortion..or just not being against it.
The roots of that can be found in the teachings of the late Francis Schaeffer who a few years before he died proclaimed that the most important thing that Christians should be defeating is abortion. Schaeffer carried a lot of weight with the nondeminational/charismatic movements; along with the southern Baptists. That was about 7 years after Roe v Wade. Schaeffer was friends with Dr C Everett Koop who also became a mouthpiece pushing against abortion. Schaeffer died in 1984 but, then, Ronald Reagan made Koop his surgeon general...and voila...the movement began. I was there at the beginning and, at the time, went right along with it. I became a political activist for Jesus. Initially a Democrat... I was told that being a Democrat was not a good Christian witness (by my pastor) and joined the Republicans and the Reagan revolution "for Jesus."
And this is where we are.
September 15, 2021:
Christ didnt die on the cross to protect my freedom of speech, my right to assemble or bear arms. He died that evil men would be redeemed.
American Christian Nationalists do not believe this.
Franklin Graham accused Democrats of going against the principles of Christianity and wants Christians to move away from the Democratic Party.
Franklin is a poster boy for Christian Nationalism. He learned it from his dad, Billy Graham, who wrote as early as 1954 that "Communism is a religion that is inspired, directed and motivated by the Devil himself who has declared war against Almighty God."
Franklin sees Democrats & Soviet Communists as the same thing and preaches accordingly.
Christ didnt die on the cross to protect my freedom of speech, my right to assemble or bear arms. He died that evil men would be redeemed.
American Christian Nationalists do not believe this.
Franklin Graham accused Democrats of going against the principles of Christianity and wants Christians to move away from the Democratic Party.
Franklin is a poster boy for Christian Nationalism. He learned it from his dad, Billy Graham, who wrote as early as 1954 that "Communism is a religion that is inspired, directed and motivated by the Devil himself who has declared war against Almighty God."
Franklin sees Democrats & Soviet Communists as the same thing and preaches accordingly.
September 10, 2021:
Jesus stood against the politically religious of his day.
Jesus didn't instruct us to try to setup God's kingdom on earth and over take secular systems.
He indicated that we (individually) work out our own salvation with fear and trembling - not that we work out societies salvation with force of religion being inscribed into law.
Jesus stood against the politically religious of his day.
Jesus didn't instruct us to try to setup God's kingdom on earth and over take secular systems.
He indicated that we (individually) work out our own salvation with fear and trembling - not that we work out societies salvation with force of religion being inscribed into law.
September 7, 2021:
John MacArthur believes he was right about his fight against "religious liberty" because he won the case in court. MacArthur believed tyranny was being committed against him because he had a right to ignore any government mandate concerning the pandemic because God was on his side. He won an $800,00 settlement in court. Leading the fight was the Thomas More Society and lawyers Jenna Ellis and Charles LiMandri. These lawyers won an $800,000 settlement from the State of California and the County of Los Angeles. It's interesting that he does not apply that same "logic" on other issues, like Roe V Wade, and all the times that losses were made in court that it wasnt considered a victory.. MacArthur is one of several mainstream pastors who are very much entrenched in Christian Nationalism.
This is disturbing:
New Apostolic Reformation = Christian Nationalism. Al Jazeera called the NAR "America's Own Taliban"
Last April, Rick Joyner, head of Morning Star Ministries in Charlotte, N.C., told Jim Bakker about a revelatory dream from 2018. Joyner urged “true disciples of Christ” to get their weapons ready because, according to Jesus, we are heading for a second American Revolution (or Civil War) in which God-ordained “militias would pop up like mushrooms.” The good news, he said, was that victory was assured.😳😳😳
1. Don’t equate the biblical kingdom of God with any human political party or nation. We must maintain the distinctiveness between God’s kingdom and the kingdoms of this world. We must never fuse the two (John18:36; Matt.6:33).
2. Don’t elevate a politician to messianic status. People often falsely think a politician can single-handedly produce supernatural social results. We have one Lord, and we must resist any attempt to exalt politicians to unrealistic heights (Matt.7:15; 1Pet.3:15).
3. Don’t just vote, but pray for the leaders of all political parties. Christians can be tempted to bless the politician of their choice, and curse his or her opponent, but remember, we must pray even for our enemies (1Tim.2:1–2; Matt.5:44).
4. Don’t forget that your ultimate security is in the unshakeable kingdom of God. Many Christians often elevate the outcome of presidential elections to an apocalyptic status. If a particular presidential candidate does not win, we begin to think or act as if the world will end. In so doing, however, we express an unbelief in the active sovereignty of God over human affairs (Heb.12:26–29).
5. Don’t bring the polarization of partisan politics into the family of God. Every Christian has freedom of conscience before God, and we must guard against allowing political perspectives to divide the church (Rom.16:17; 1Cor.1:11–12).
6. Don’t demonize anyone. Every person has been created in the image of God, and Christians must not demonize or dehumanize other people, whether we agree with them politically or not (Col.3:8; James4:12).
7. Don’t engage in angry, hostile confrontation. Present your political convictions through civil debate and rational dialogue instead. Confrontational arguments demonstrate an ugly pride that demeans Jesus Christ (James1:19–20; 2Tim.2:14).
8. Don’t become so intertwined with one political party that you forfeit your independence. When you do, you lose your right to be heard and to speak and clarify biblical truth to all politicians and political parties (1Tim.3:15; Rom.3:4).
9. Don’t allow yourself to support attempts to divide races, male and female, rich and poor, or young and old. Partisan politics often divides society into voting blocks, and separates society instead of uniting it. Christians should function as peacemakers and reconcilers in the public square and should resist every temptation to join the game of dividing people for political gain (Matt.5:9; 2Cor.5:18–19).
10. Don’t simply curse the darkness, but constructively engage it. The cultural and missional mandate of kingdom Christians is not to curse the darkness in our world, but to act as illuminating light and preserving salt. We must share the light of God’s truth and work to maintain the common welfare of our nation by overcoming evil through doing good (Matt.5:13–16).
This list appeared in the Viewpoint column of the Christian Research Journal, volume 31, number 04 (2008).
John MacArthur believes he was right about his fight against "religious liberty" because he won the case in court. MacArthur believed tyranny was being committed against him because he had a right to ignore any government mandate concerning the pandemic because God was on his side. He won an $800,00 settlement in court. Leading the fight was the Thomas More Society and lawyers Jenna Ellis and Charles LiMandri. These lawyers won an $800,000 settlement from the State of California and the County of Los Angeles. It's interesting that he does not apply that same "logic" on other issues, like Roe V Wade, and all the times that losses were made in court that it wasnt considered a victory.. MacArthur is one of several mainstream pastors who are very much entrenched in Christian Nationalism.
This is disturbing:
New Apostolic Reformation = Christian Nationalism. Al Jazeera called the NAR "America's Own Taliban"
Last April, Rick Joyner, head of Morning Star Ministries in Charlotte, N.C., told Jim Bakker about a revelatory dream from 2018. Joyner urged “true disciples of Christ” to get their weapons ready because, according to Jesus, we are heading for a second American Revolution (or Civil War) in which God-ordained “militias would pop up like mushrooms.” The good news, he said, was that victory was assured.😳😳😳
1. Don’t equate the biblical kingdom of God with any human political party or nation. We must maintain the distinctiveness between God’s kingdom and the kingdoms of this world. We must never fuse the two (John18:36; Matt.6:33).
2. Don’t elevate a politician to messianic status. People often falsely think a politician can single-handedly produce supernatural social results. We have one Lord, and we must resist any attempt to exalt politicians to unrealistic heights (Matt.7:15; 1Pet.3:15).
3. Don’t just vote, but pray for the leaders of all political parties. Christians can be tempted to bless the politician of their choice, and curse his or her opponent, but remember, we must pray even for our enemies (1Tim.2:1–2; Matt.5:44).
4. Don’t forget that your ultimate security is in the unshakeable kingdom of God. Many Christians often elevate the outcome of presidential elections to an apocalyptic status. If a particular presidential candidate does not win, we begin to think or act as if the world will end. In so doing, however, we express an unbelief in the active sovereignty of God over human affairs (Heb.12:26–29).
5. Don’t bring the polarization of partisan politics into the family of God. Every Christian has freedom of conscience before God, and we must guard against allowing political perspectives to divide the church (Rom.16:17; 1Cor.1:11–12).
6. Don’t demonize anyone. Every person has been created in the image of God, and Christians must not demonize or dehumanize other people, whether we agree with them politically or not (Col.3:8; James4:12).
7. Don’t engage in angry, hostile confrontation. Present your political convictions through civil debate and rational dialogue instead. Confrontational arguments demonstrate an ugly pride that demeans Jesus Christ (James1:19–20; 2Tim.2:14).
8. Don’t become so intertwined with one political party that you forfeit your independence. When you do, you lose your right to be heard and to speak and clarify biblical truth to all politicians and political parties (1Tim.3:15; Rom.3:4).
9. Don’t allow yourself to support attempts to divide races, male and female, rich and poor, or young and old. Partisan politics often divides society into voting blocks, and separates society instead of uniting it. Christians should function as peacemakers and reconcilers in the public square and should resist every temptation to join the game of dividing people for political gain (Matt.5:9; 2Cor.5:18–19).
10. Don’t simply curse the darkness, but constructively engage it. The cultural and missional mandate of kingdom Christians is not to curse the darkness in our world, but to act as illuminating light and preserving salt. We must share the light of God’s truth and work to maintain the common welfare of our nation by overcoming evil through doing good (Matt.5:13–16).
This list appeared in the Viewpoint column of the Christian Research Journal, volume 31, number 04 (2008).
August 28, 2021:
I have read a lot of RJ Rushdoony's books with my favorite being his "Institutes of Biblical Law." My position has changed on this considerable since when I first read them. Now when I look at his writings I see he was really encouraging a battle between Christianity and the state (government)....which is also Christian Nationalism. I was steeped into it much more than I realized. Rushdoonys organization, Chalcedon" is largely a Reconstructionest movement designed to build Gods kingdom on earth.
I have read a lot of RJ Rushdoony's books with my favorite being his "Institutes of Biblical Law." My position has changed on this considerable since when I first read them. Now when I look at his writings I see he was really encouraging a battle between Christianity and the state (government)....which is also Christian Nationalism. I was steeped into it much more than I realized. Rushdoonys organization, Chalcedon" is largely a Reconstructionest movement designed to build Gods kingdom on earth.
August 10, 2021:
In Christendom, conservative humanism is no better than a liberal humanism. It's the humanism that is wrong not merely the political coloration. The First Amendment was enacted that there would be no united church of the 13 colonies and that the state would never interfere with religion. The concept of the "separation of church and state" was to keep the state out of your religion. It did not, however, forbid, religious people from being involved in government.
What is not there (and never was) is an invite for people who call themselves Christian (or any other religion) to take over the state. The Bible makes no case for that either. Even the late theologian Francis Schaffer stated "there is no place this side of the New Testament for a theocracy...there should be no theocracy til the King comes back."
Too many Christians over the span of the last few decades have bought the idea that America is Christian by foundation and gives them license to push theocratic Christianity. Today this is more commonly known in todays vernacular as Christian Nationalism. CN's claim to do it in the name of freedom of religion and "for God," but it is truly fascist and tyrannical at its very nature. ....and would likely be worse as it attempts to implement.
"Religion" per the Constitution, does not give Christianity any special designation. CNs, however, view themselves as the only protected religion and cite books or ill informed blogs or pastors that say that since America was founded as a Christian nation that only Christian religions should be protected. That idea gives them license to hate anyone from any other religion and often race.
Democracy, however, and the Constitutional protections naturally works against that notion. Pushing back against the tyrannical efforts of Christendom, Athiests and even Satanists in recent years have declared themselves religions. I am not endorsing their world view but it is tyrannical efforts by Christian themselves that created that dilemma. What they are doing now could cause unimaginable harm as the events of Jan 6 testify to.
Jesus referred to Christians as the salt of the earth. When salt is mixed with water, the salt dissolves because the covalent bonds of water are stronger than the ionic bonds in the salt molecules. So diluted Christianity eventually destroys itself. As Jesus pointed out "but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men."
Christianity and the freedom thereof only works through Jesus Christ. There is no substitute for it.
In Christendom, conservative humanism is no better than a liberal humanism. It's the humanism that is wrong not merely the political coloration. The First Amendment was enacted that there would be no united church of the 13 colonies and that the state would never interfere with religion. The concept of the "separation of church and state" was to keep the state out of your religion. It did not, however, forbid, religious people from being involved in government.
What is not there (and never was) is an invite for people who call themselves Christian (or any other religion) to take over the state. The Bible makes no case for that either. Even the late theologian Francis Schaffer stated "there is no place this side of the New Testament for a theocracy...there should be no theocracy til the King comes back."
Too many Christians over the span of the last few decades have bought the idea that America is Christian by foundation and gives them license to push theocratic Christianity. Today this is more commonly known in todays vernacular as Christian Nationalism. CN's claim to do it in the name of freedom of religion and "for God," but it is truly fascist and tyrannical at its very nature. ....and would likely be worse as it attempts to implement.
"Religion" per the Constitution, does not give Christianity any special designation. CNs, however, view themselves as the only protected religion and cite books or ill informed blogs or pastors that say that since America was founded as a Christian nation that only Christian religions should be protected. That idea gives them license to hate anyone from any other religion and often race.
Democracy, however, and the Constitutional protections naturally works against that notion. Pushing back against the tyrannical efforts of Christendom, Athiests and even Satanists in recent years have declared themselves religions. I am not endorsing their world view but it is tyrannical efforts by Christian themselves that created that dilemma. What they are doing now could cause unimaginable harm as the events of Jan 6 testify to.
Jesus referred to Christians as the salt of the earth. When salt is mixed with water, the salt dissolves because the covalent bonds of water are stronger than the ionic bonds in the salt molecules. So diluted Christianity eventually destroys itself. As Jesus pointed out "but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men."
Christianity and the freedom thereof only works through Jesus Christ. There is no substitute for it.
August 8, 2021
Been doing a lot of study on the subject of Christian Nationalism lately. I'm using dozens of sources and last week I had a timeline traced back to Barry Goldwater. Now I'm back to Eisenhower. I am not labeling either of them CN but things they did helped further it. There are people who probably have a timeline but it helps me to understand it better if I do it myself.
Looking at history, It's kind of inevitable that we would be where we are at. I can say that if Trump was a smart person and not such a egomaniacal narcissist we could be in a very different place today. So in a sense we should consider ourselves blessed that Trump needs psychological help. I'll call that God's grace. The danger would be someone who is smart learning from Trumps mistakes in the future. That's why the Jan 6 Commission is so important.
Trump and evangelicals used each other. Trump, who has never exhibited any fruit of being Christian, used Christians to further his agenda (himself manily)...at the same time Evangelicals...fueled by some insane propaganda they devoured which made them fearful after 8 years of Obama, grabbed on to anything they could who they thought would help further their interests and save them from "Communism". Hence, came the dangerous concoction which became Christian Nationalism. Most CN's dont know they are CN. They see their devotion to God as patriotic and believe their patriotic actions have Gods blessings as they attempt to "build God's kingdom on earth." AND they believe God is on their side. God, however, is not an American.
Early in my Christian growth I was introduced to the teachings of JR Rushdoony. If I were to list the most impactful books on my life, for many years it was "The Institutes of Biblical Law" by Rushdoony. Had God not steered me away from CN..it would have been through those teachings that I would have gone full on CN. Rushdoony was only a part of it, but, as a life long culture watcher I have seen the trends the church has taken...and most silly trends fail without doing long lasting damage. Rushdoony's teachings are part of what he called "Reconstructionist" ideology. There are similarities to Calvinism and a lot of Baptist churches share that in their foundations....particularly southern Baptists (which explained a lot of stuff I see down here on that subject). CN combines the energy we give to being patriotic and the energy we give to our Christian duties. That merge becomes a powerful dogma...dangerous...and powerful.
There is nothing wrong with being patriotic. But never is it equal with my duty as a Christian to love one another. CN's have long lists of people they hate and demonize. They claim they do not fear...but it is fear that brought them to CN in the first place. Becoming a CN gave the, an energy which repressed their fear. I have held from the beginning the idea that the covid deniers were deniers because they were motivated by fear. Anger gave them a sense of power over their fear. Still does. And that combination with the insane antics of Trump this last year brought us all to Jan 6. AND to where we are now. I am praying and studying over this all. Not sure where we are going from here... should be interesting but maybe also miraculous.
As Christians we have a responsibility: Love the Lord they God with your heart, mind and soul...and love your neighbor as yourself. Keep those tenants and it will take us all home.
On a final note, I will mention I have had many an email and message from people I have been friends, associates and affiliated with in some way who have been bothered that I have switched my "political position" (Ex GOP) and rail against their "dear leader" (aka...apparently their saviour Donald Trump). I have been called a Democrat (I am not, but I dont see it as bad....which also offends them BTW). I have been called a socialist, a person on the wrong side of "this thing", and a whole bunch of 4 letter words that also come from people who both claim to be Christian and "Constitutional Conservatives.") and I have had friends that I have known personally for many years as far back as South Dakota apparently discontinue our "friendship." And they love to throw around the word "prolife" as a weapon or point of guilt..not sure. C'est la vie. I pray for them any way. Prayer is my Christian duty. Storming the Capitol isn't
Been doing a lot of study on the subject of Christian Nationalism lately. I'm using dozens of sources and last week I had a timeline traced back to Barry Goldwater. Now I'm back to Eisenhower. I am not labeling either of them CN but things they did helped further it. There are people who probably have a timeline but it helps me to understand it better if I do it myself.
Looking at history, It's kind of inevitable that we would be where we are at. I can say that if Trump was a smart person and not such a egomaniacal narcissist we could be in a very different place today. So in a sense we should consider ourselves blessed that Trump needs psychological help. I'll call that God's grace. The danger would be someone who is smart learning from Trumps mistakes in the future. That's why the Jan 6 Commission is so important.
Trump and evangelicals used each other. Trump, who has never exhibited any fruit of being Christian, used Christians to further his agenda (himself manily)...at the same time Evangelicals...fueled by some insane propaganda they devoured which made them fearful after 8 years of Obama, grabbed on to anything they could who they thought would help further their interests and save them from "Communism". Hence, came the dangerous concoction which became Christian Nationalism. Most CN's dont know they are CN. They see their devotion to God as patriotic and believe their patriotic actions have Gods blessings as they attempt to "build God's kingdom on earth." AND they believe God is on their side. God, however, is not an American.
Early in my Christian growth I was introduced to the teachings of JR Rushdoony. If I were to list the most impactful books on my life, for many years it was "The Institutes of Biblical Law" by Rushdoony. Had God not steered me away from CN..it would have been through those teachings that I would have gone full on CN. Rushdoony was only a part of it, but, as a life long culture watcher I have seen the trends the church has taken...and most silly trends fail without doing long lasting damage. Rushdoony's teachings are part of what he called "Reconstructionist" ideology. There are similarities to Calvinism and a lot of Baptist churches share that in their foundations....particularly southern Baptists (which explained a lot of stuff I see down here on that subject). CN combines the energy we give to being patriotic and the energy we give to our Christian duties. That merge becomes a powerful dogma...dangerous...and powerful.
There is nothing wrong with being patriotic. But never is it equal with my duty as a Christian to love one another. CN's have long lists of people they hate and demonize. They claim they do not fear...but it is fear that brought them to CN in the first place. Becoming a CN gave the, an energy which repressed their fear. I have held from the beginning the idea that the covid deniers were deniers because they were motivated by fear. Anger gave them a sense of power over their fear. Still does. And that combination with the insane antics of Trump this last year brought us all to Jan 6. AND to where we are now. I am praying and studying over this all. Not sure where we are going from here... should be interesting but maybe also miraculous.
As Christians we have a responsibility: Love the Lord they God with your heart, mind and soul...and love your neighbor as yourself. Keep those tenants and it will take us all home.
On a final note, I will mention I have had many an email and message from people I have been friends, associates and affiliated with in some way who have been bothered that I have switched my "political position" (Ex GOP) and rail against their "dear leader" (aka...apparently their saviour Donald Trump). I have been called a Democrat (I am not, but I dont see it as bad....which also offends them BTW). I have been called a socialist, a person on the wrong side of "this thing", and a whole bunch of 4 letter words that also come from people who both claim to be Christian and "Constitutional Conservatives.") and I have had friends that I have known personally for many years as far back as South Dakota apparently discontinue our "friendship." And they love to throw around the word "prolife" as a weapon or point of guilt..not sure. C'est la vie. I pray for them any way. Prayer is my Christian duty. Storming the Capitol isn't
Aug 4, 2021:
👉As a book collector I was interested in buying a book written by Steve Gallagher called "Walking in Truth in a World of Lies." I had heard a couple of his teachings through Pure Life Ministries. The dueling realities we are now facing is baffling to me.
👉For an example, The other day I posted a quote by HL Mencken. (“It is the natural tendency of the ignorant to believe what is not true.”). I liked the quote and it makes sense but the odd thing about finding it was that it was posted on the profile intro of a a person who is so buried in conspiracies and Maga nonsense it will be a long time before he sees the light of day. But there's that dueling realities problem.
👉I have listened to Gallagher speak a few times and see seemed OK. He made claims he was "conservative" which made my ears perk up but he said nothing about politics. Not that I am anti-conservative but the word "conservative" also has a dual meaning with the rise of the Maga vernacular.
Since I dont really watch TV much I do have my TV set up to watch Youtube. I happened to see a series of videos by Gallagher hyping his book. He said a couple things about Trump but nothing indicating he sold his soul to him..but then he started talking about Democrats and people opposed to Trump and the wreckless socialist course they were going to take us on and other similar stuff. About there I shut it off and unsubscribed to his channel. And will skip the book. Interestingly, normally when I get a sense that I should buy a book I just do it immediately. I did look the book up ...but....I hesitated. Saved me $18. I will likely be doing some more research and study just based off the premise of the title of the book.
👉Demonizing people you disagree with is, unfortunately, the sad nature of American politics...and something I suspect there will not be a cure for any time soon...if at all. But Gallagher is presenting Christianity. I just have a real problem with Christians demonizing anyone that way. Unless it's a real demon....but I havent heard a politician or Christian make a legit case for that yet. There are such things as Christian Democrats. There are athiest Republicans. God is not a member of either party. Lots of non-Christians see Christians as very hateful. In my rightwing days I did not see it. But now its glaring.
👉Jesus never said "Go Ye unto the earth..unless they do not think like you...then judge them and demonize them and go your way." That, however, is the Maga marching orders I seem to see from Maga folks all the time. It's all part of the "Christian Nationalism Syndrome" that has taken over rational Christian thought. One of my favorite theologians, Francis Schaeffer, use to talk about man and his "escape from reason" way back in the 60s. Almost 60 years later, for many "Christians" the escape has been made. It puts people like myself in a precarious spot. How does one reach the Twilight Zone from here?
👉As a book collector I was interested in buying a book written by Steve Gallagher called "Walking in Truth in a World of Lies." I had heard a couple of his teachings through Pure Life Ministries. The dueling realities we are now facing is baffling to me.
👉For an example, The other day I posted a quote by HL Mencken. (“It is the natural tendency of the ignorant to believe what is not true.”). I liked the quote and it makes sense but the odd thing about finding it was that it was posted on the profile intro of a a person who is so buried in conspiracies and Maga nonsense it will be a long time before he sees the light of day. But there's that dueling realities problem.
👉I have listened to Gallagher speak a few times and see seemed OK. He made claims he was "conservative" which made my ears perk up but he said nothing about politics. Not that I am anti-conservative but the word "conservative" also has a dual meaning with the rise of the Maga vernacular.
Since I dont really watch TV much I do have my TV set up to watch Youtube. I happened to see a series of videos by Gallagher hyping his book. He said a couple things about Trump but nothing indicating he sold his soul to him..but then he started talking about Democrats and people opposed to Trump and the wreckless socialist course they were going to take us on and other similar stuff. About there I shut it off and unsubscribed to his channel. And will skip the book. Interestingly, normally when I get a sense that I should buy a book I just do it immediately. I did look the book up ...but....I hesitated. Saved me $18. I will likely be doing some more research and study just based off the premise of the title of the book.
👉Demonizing people you disagree with is, unfortunately, the sad nature of American politics...and something I suspect there will not be a cure for any time soon...if at all. But Gallagher is presenting Christianity. I just have a real problem with Christians demonizing anyone that way. Unless it's a real demon....but I havent heard a politician or Christian make a legit case for that yet. There are such things as Christian Democrats. There are athiest Republicans. God is not a member of either party. Lots of non-Christians see Christians as very hateful. In my rightwing days I did not see it. But now its glaring.
👉Jesus never said "Go Ye unto the earth..unless they do not think like you...then judge them and demonize them and go your way." That, however, is the Maga marching orders I seem to see from Maga folks all the time. It's all part of the "Christian Nationalism Syndrome" that has taken over rational Christian thought. One of my favorite theologians, Francis Schaeffer, use to talk about man and his "escape from reason" way back in the 60s. Almost 60 years later, for many "Christians" the escape has been made. It puts people like myself in a precarious spot. How does one reach the Twilight Zone from here?
July 21, 2021:
Ive noticed a lot of folks on social media who claim both Christianity and Nationalism love to put out the most absurd nonsense and even QAnonsense and then follow it up by posting a Bible verse. Marco Rubio is one of the most notorious ones that do it. Ted Cruz does it.
Before Cruz went off the rails for The former guy he often touted his Christian convictions. But not having any real moral convictions anymore he seems to scream out crazy stuff with a Bible verse on top. Its like an absurd scoop of ice cream with a cherry picked random Bible verse: A cherry-picked Bible verse on top of his nutty "I Screamed."
In my life as a Christian I know very well that there were times (too many times) I did something stupid then tried to justify with a Bible verse but I also know, from experience, that doing that is not a road to maturity by any means....and has no good end.
As a non Christian I self justified stupid stuff by lying about it (wasn't me") or denying I did it...all designed to make me appear better then I knew I was. I think thats why these people like Cruz and Rubio do it:
they know better and throwing out the Cherry picked Bible verse to cover the "I screamed" stuff helps them comfort their guilt.
It is also a hallmark of Trump Evangelicals. They post the most absurd stuff and then throw out a post and a Bible Verse about how God is prolife. It doesnt help their absurdities by any means. But, I suspect it maybe it helps them sleep at night believing that God is so proud of them for standing up for the "prolife" cause while pushing lies simultaneously
Ive noticed a lot of folks on social media who claim both Christianity and Nationalism love to put out the most absurd nonsense and even QAnonsense and then follow it up by posting a Bible verse. Marco Rubio is one of the most notorious ones that do it. Ted Cruz does it.
Before Cruz went off the rails for The former guy he often touted his Christian convictions. But not having any real moral convictions anymore he seems to scream out crazy stuff with a Bible verse on top. Its like an absurd scoop of ice cream with a cherry picked random Bible verse: A cherry-picked Bible verse on top of his nutty "I Screamed."
In my life as a Christian I know very well that there were times (too many times) I did something stupid then tried to justify with a Bible verse but I also know, from experience, that doing that is not a road to maturity by any means....and has no good end.
As a non Christian I self justified stupid stuff by lying about it (wasn't me") or denying I did it...all designed to make me appear better then I knew I was. I think thats why these people like Cruz and Rubio do it:
they know better and throwing out the Cherry picked Bible verse to cover the "I screamed" stuff helps them comfort their guilt.
It is also a hallmark of Trump Evangelicals. They post the most absurd stuff and then throw out a post and a Bible Verse about how God is prolife. It doesnt help their absurdities by any means. But, I suspect it maybe it helps them sleep at night believing that God is so proud of them for standing up for the "prolife" cause while pushing lies simultaneously
April 24, 2021:
👉 As one who used to espouse "Christian Nationalist" ideas unwittingly, I wish to now make it clear that the USA does protect Christians..but so does it protect every other religion.
👉"Christian Nationalism" (faux christianity) was at the forefront and a driving force of groups like the KKK. That can only come by a poor interpretation of the words of Jesus and other Biblical authors who said clearly: Love One Another. No one said "Love One Another unless they are different then me."
👉My grandparents migrated from Poland to the US in the 30s. I have foreign blood in my line as do most Americans. And the OT declares: "You shall also love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land..." And we are all strangers in the thing called life who are here but for a season. Why use that time to hate and defame anyone or everyone that does not think or look like you do?
👉Last note: the word "prolife" is batted around like its a special designation from God to Christians. But its become a meaningless political term used by political candidates to gain support. "Christian Nationalists" use it to pat themselves on the back for doing Gods work and give themselves a sense of "godliness" in their politics. Ive seen people support evil and vile candidates and sugar coat it with "prolife" language to give them some sense of "Christian" identification.
I accept the word prolife but only if it is actually applied to ALL things life:
👉gun violence (if you need an AR to hunt youre doing it wrong),
👉a pandemic (NOT "just a flu"),
along with lots of folks worldwide that used to look to the USA as a beacon.
......but now see us a fragile & maybe failing democracy. Jesus said love one another. Dont Pretend you do.
👉 As one who used to espouse "Christian Nationalist" ideas unwittingly, I wish to now make it clear that the USA does protect Christians..but so does it protect every other religion.
👉"Christian Nationalism" (faux christianity) was at the forefront and a driving force of groups like the KKK. That can only come by a poor interpretation of the words of Jesus and other Biblical authors who said clearly: Love One Another. No one said "Love One Another unless they are different then me."
👉My grandparents migrated from Poland to the US in the 30s. I have foreign blood in my line as do most Americans. And the OT declares: "You shall also love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land..." And we are all strangers in the thing called life who are here but for a season. Why use that time to hate and defame anyone or everyone that does not think or look like you do?
👉Last note: the word "prolife" is batted around like its a special designation from God to Christians. But its become a meaningless political term used by political candidates to gain support. "Christian Nationalists" use it to pat themselves on the back for doing Gods work and give themselves a sense of "godliness" in their politics. Ive seen people support evil and vile candidates and sugar coat it with "prolife" language to give them some sense of "Christian" identification.
I accept the word prolife but only if it is actually applied to ALL things life:
👉gun violence (if you need an AR to hunt youre doing it wrong),
👉a pandemic (NOT "just a flu"),
along with lots of folks worldwide that used to look to the USA as a beacon.
......but now see us a fragile & maybe failing democracy. Jesus said love one another. Dont Pretend you do.
January 13, 2021:
👉Some people are suggesting we might be seeing a civil war. I don't know that its escalated to that point yet, but the similarities are there if compared to our first Civil War.
👉The Confederacy was largely Christian Nationalists (the faux Christian belief that God and Country are same thing). It was also an insurrection of southern states. If you've paid attention to where a lot of the people involved in the Jan 6 Capitol insurrection who have been arrested were from, it is mostly from southern states.
👉Christian Nationalism was alive and well before & during the Civil War and they viewed their battle against the Northern states as their Christian duty to defend. Slavery was, to them, a Christian right. Though Slavery was a central theme, one could also argue that money was also a motivation. If they lost their slaves they would have to pay a wage to other people to do their work. I am not saying Magas are pro-slavery...but there is a strong connection with White Supremacy groups.
👉Christian Nationalism never died in the south and is now making a comeback in the Maga Movement. I am not saying all southerners are that way, but it is here amongst us (I live in Mississippi).
👉Christian Nationalism still has money as motivation somewhat as many of the Maga crowd will tell you that under Trump they made more money and are sure that under Democrats they will lose that. It is also why many of the prosperity preachers became supporters of the Magas: prosperity preachers thrive in capitalist driven countries because God is not really blessing their methods they are just playing the economy...and living off the donations of unsuspecting Christians who are actively contributing to the economy with their labor.
👉Christian Nationalism and Maga are pretty much the same thing. It is why they can be involved in a seditious move on the US Capital where Police officers were beaten and carry Christian and Confederate flags with them. They see no contradiction in their philosophies. It is why the social media Magas can suggest killing elected officials while decrying abortion simultaneously. It is why you can look at one of their FaceBook profiles and see many hateful posts about Democrats and other enemies while they mix in Bible Verse memes in between.
👉They do not see contradiction or contradictions to their contradictions. They watch only news they agree with and are otherwise uninformed about what is going on in the world or even their own country. Science means little. They have created their own reality. Whatever they do they see as God ordained and is what makes them dangerous. Donald Trump, who actually knows very little about the Bible or the Constitution (and if he did he wouldn't care). In fact, his niece, Mary Trump , says Donald Trump does not read anything. Mary Trump has not been wrong about anything she has written about her uncle but too many people didn't pay attention.
👉And now he has become their leader. To many he is actually elevated to Messiah.
👉I dont know how this is all going to end. I pray that it will end well. Sanctions against any and all, including Trump, is a good start. But it will not end the fact that they think they are doing Gods will and if you mix that with political ideology it makes you think you are the smartest person in the room. Mix that with a gun and you have a very real danger. "God, Guns & Liberty" are the battle cry of the Magas, along with Trump2020...though now they have to find flags and signs that dont include Mike Pence.
I may be adding more to this as I think about it more....or fix grammatical errors (Its hard to edit your own material😉)
👉Some people are suggesting we might be seeing a civil war. I don't know that its escalated to that point yet, but the similarities are there if compared to our first Civil War.
👉The Confederacy was largely Christian Nationalists (the faux Christian belief that God and Country are same thing). It was also an insurrection of southern states. If you've paid attention to where a lot of the people involved in the Jan 6 Capitol insurrection who have been arrested were from, it is mostly from southern states.
👉Christian Nationalism was alive and well before & during the Civil War and they viewed their battle against the Northern states as their Christian duty to defend. Slavery was, to them, a Christian right. Though Slavery was a central theme, one could also argue that money was also a motivation. If they lost their slaves they would have to pay a wage to other people to do their work. I am not saying Magas are pro-slavery...but there is a strong connection with White Supremacy groups.
👉Christian Nationalism never died in the south and is now making a comeback in the Maga Movement. I am not saying all southerners are that way, but it is here amongst us (I live in Mississippi).
👉Christian Nationalism still has money as motivation somewhat as many of the Maga crowd will tell you that under Trump they made more money and are sure that under Democrats they will lose that. It is also why many of the prosperity preachers became supporters of the Magas: prosperity preachers thrive in capitalist driven countries because God is not really blessing their methods they are just playing the economy...and living off the donations of unsuspecting Christians who are actively contributing to the economy with their labor.
👉Christian Nationalism and Maga are pretty much the same thing. It is why they can be involved in a seditious move on the US Capital where Police officers were beaten and carry Christian and Confederate flags with them. They see no contradiction in their philosophies. It is why the social media Magas can suggest killing elected officials while decrying abortion simultaneously. It is why you can look at one of their FaceBook profiles and see many hateful posts about Democrats and other enemies while they mix in Bible Verse memes in between.
👉They do not see contradiction or contradictions to their contradictions. They watch only news they agree with and are otherwise uninformed about what is going on in the world or even their own country. Science means little. They have created their own reality. Whatever they do they see as God ordained and is what makes them dangerous. Donald Trump, who actually knows very little about the Bible or the Constitution (and if he did he wouldn't care). In fact, his niece, Mary Trump , says Donald Trump does not read anything. Mary Trump has not been wrong about anything she has written about her uncle but too many people didn't pay attention.
👉And now he has become their leader. To many he is actually elevated to Messiah.
👉I dont know how this is all going to end. I pray that it will end well. Sanctions against any and all, including Trump, is a good start. But it will not end the fact that they think they are doing Gods will and if you mix that with political ideology it makes you think you are the smartest person in the room. Mix that with a gun and you have a very real danger. "God, Guns & Liberty" are the battle cry of the Magas, along with Trump2020...though now they have to find flags and signs that dont include Mike Pence.
I may be adding more to this as I think about it more....or fix grammatical errors (Its hard to edit your own material😉)
January 10, 2021:
👉God has and is using Trump to expose the stupidity and evil hearts of those who call Him Lord. "Christian Nationalism" is not of God. God demands devotion to love Him with all your heart your mind and your soul. Then to love your neighbor as yourself (even if you disagree with your neighbor).
👉The kingdom of God focuses on the advancement of the gospel. Nationalism focuses on the advancement of the politics of the nation. Politics and economics are vital and, to an extent, can represent biblical ethics. But Jesus made it clear that being committed to making disciples and seeing humanity change was more important, and a change that would be real and lasting.
👉It is also possible for a committed Christian to be a faithful witness for Jesus while serving in public life as an elected official. But anything that potentially distracts my energy and focus away from advancing the Gospel should take a backseat in my personal life and ministry.
1️⃣The kingdom of God produces loyalty to Christ above all else. Nationalism produces loyalty to the nation above all else.
2️⃣The kingdom of God produces martyrs for the cause of Christ. Nationalism produces citizens who are willing to die for their nation based simply on a political ideology.
3️⃣The kingdom of God raises the banner of Jesus above all else. Nationalism raises the national flag above all else...or based on what we saw this week, the Trump flag and even, more sadly, the Confederate flag.
4️⃣The kingdom of God promotes the interests of God above the world. Nationalism promotes the interests of the nation above the kingdom.
👉Christian Nationalism is a very dangerous dogma. When you think God is on your side and your politics is from Him...you see yourself as the smartest and the strongest person in the room. It is a dangerous faux humility.
▶️“His soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence” (Psalm 11:5). Solomon instructed us, “Do not envy a man of violence and do not choose any of his ways” (Proverbs 3:31).◀️
👉God has and is using Trump to expose the stupidity and evil hearts of those who call Him Lord. "Christian Nationalism" is not of God. God demands devotion to love Him with all your heart your mind and your soul. Then to love your neighbor as yourself (even if you disagree with your neighbor).
👉The kingdom of God focuses on the advancement of the gospel. Nationalism focuses on the advancement of the politics of the nation. Politics and economics are vital and, to an extent, can represent biblical ethics. But Jesus made it clear that being committed to making disciples and seeing humanity change was more important, and a change that would be real and lasting.
👉It is also possible for a committed Christian to be a faithful witness for Jesus while serving in public life as an elected official. But anything that potentially distracts my energy and focus away from advancing the Gospel should take a backseat in my personal life and ministry.
1️⃣The kingdom of God produces loyalty to Christ above all else. Nationalism produces loyalty to the nation above all else.
2️⃣The kingdom of God produces martyrs for the cause of Christ. Nationalism produces citizens who are willing to die for their nation based simply on a political ideology.
3️⃣The kingdom of God raises the banner of Jesus above all else. Nationalism raises the national flag above all else...or based on what we saw this week, the Trump flag and even, more sadly, the Confederate flag.
4️⃣The kingdom of God promotes the interests of God above the world. Nationalism promotes the interests of the nation above the kingdom.
👉Christian Nationalism is a very dangerous dogma. When you think God is on your side and your politics is from Him...you see yourself as the smartest and the strongest person in the room. It is a dangerous faux humility.
▶️“His soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence” (Psalm 11:5). Solomon instructed us, “Do not envy a man of violence and do not choose any of his ways” (Proverbs 3:31).◀️
| A badly-outnumbered police officer asked them to leave the Senate Chamber because “this is like the sacrediest place.” The insurrectionists ignored his plea and instead lined up behind the podium. “Jesus Christ, we invoke your name! Amen!” one of them shouted with a hand raised upward. Others also shouted “amen” as Chansley, suddenly inspired, added, “Let’s all say a prayer in this sacred space.” So, he set down the American flag he’d been carrying and picked up a bullhorn to pray. He started, paused for everyone to take off their Trump hats (or furry horns), and then started again. “Thank you, Heavenly Father, for this opportunity to stand up for God-given unalienable rights,” he offered. “Thank you, Heavenly Father, for being the inspiration needed to these police officers to allow us into the building, to allow us to exercise our rights, to allow us to send a message to all the tyrants, the communists and the globalists that this is our nation, not theirs.” (Rom. 12:9). .” ~ Brian Kaylor and Beau Underwood; A Public Witness |
January 9, 2021:
I listened to a short video today by a preacher named Perry Stone. It was short but it caught my attention so I started listening to another one by him and it went south real quick as he started making him the subject and started making it clear that God was giving him prophetic insights that most people wouldn't understand and then going into politics and banging that Christian Nationalist gong.
I put his name in google and apparently he has a lot of sexual misconduct charges against him lately.
That would probably make sense because the "faux" in Christian Nationalist would not really have a moral compass. Which makes Trump the ultimate poster boy for Christian Nationalism.
I listened to a short video today by a preacher named Perry Stone. It was short but it caught my attention so I started listening to another one by him and it went south real quick as he started making him the subject and started making it clear that God was giving him prophetic insights that most people wouldn't understand and then going into politics and banging that Christian Nationalist gong.
I put his name in google and apparently he has a lot of sexual misconduct charges against him lately.
That would probably make sense because the "faux" in Christian Nationalist would not really have a moral compass. Which makes Trump the ultimate poster boy for Christian Nationalism.
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