december 2022
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Dec 28, 2022: Southern Poverty Law Center: Dangerous Devotion: Congressional hearing examines threat of white Christian nationalism
The House Oversight Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties held its seventh and last hearing on the threat of white nationalism this month. One principal focus was white Christian nationalism, which has driven anti-democracy extremism in recent years. The hearing was welcome as the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Intelligence Project has monitored this threat with growing concern. |
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Dec 20, 2022: Christianity Today: A Tale of Two Books, One Podcast, and the Contest over Christian Nationalism
Earlier this year, just months apart, two books on Christian nationalism hit shelves. Both were written by veterans of the US Army with PhDs in political science. Both books define nationalism as an effort to use the government to preserve a people’s cultural particularity, founded on a felt sense of affinity and similarity with one another. The main difference is that one book argued that these are good ideas and the other that they are bad
Earlier this year, just months apart, two books on Christian nationalism hit shelves. Both were written by veterans of the US Army with PhDs in political science. Both books define nationalism as an effort to use the government to preserve a people’s cultural particularity, founded on a felt sense of affinity and similarity with one another. The main difference is that one book argued that these are good ideas and the other that they are bad
Dec 17, 2022: Frederick News-Post: Some Georgia pastors push back against spread of Christian nationalism
The way the Rev. Will Dyer sees it, if pastors aren’t speaking out against Christian nationalism, then they’re making a huge mistake.
Dyer, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Augusta, Georgia, has addressed the ideology in his sermons and in private conversations with members, cautioning against the philosophy that some say calls for the blending of religion and government.
His stance cost him about 10 members from his congregation, which has an average Sunday attendance of 1,000.
The way the Rev. Will Dyer sees it, if pastors aren’t speaking out against Christian nationalism, then they’re making a huge mistake.
Dyer, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Augusta, Georgia, has addressed the ideology in his sermons and in private conversations with members, cautioning against the philosophy that some say calls for the blending of religion and government.
His stance cost him about 10 members from his congregation, which has an average Sunday attendance of 1,000.
Dec 16, 2022: BBC: Christian nationalists - wanting to put God into US government
New battle lines are being drawn in the US by a right-wing Christian movement set on what it sees as its divine mission - to spread its beliefs and messages using political power. So what is Christian nationalism and why is it flourishing now?
New battle lines are being drawn in the US by a right-wing Christian movement set on what it sees as its divine mission - to spread its beliefs and messages using political power. So what is Christian nationalism and why is it flourishing now?
Caleb Campbell Files
“When Trump would come to town, we had members of our congregation inside the building for the rally and some outside the building protesting. I was naive. I remember thinking that obviously people see right through this. I was shocked to discover that most people really earnestly supported not only his policies, but also his cruel and dehumanising rhetoric.........Christian nationalism promises power by the sword and the way of Jesus is not the sword, it’s the cross. So for me, as an evangelical pastor, the thing at stake is the message of the Gospel. You just look at people using Jesus’ name to grab government power, it’s directly antithetical to the teachings of Jesus.”
----Caleb Campbell; The Independent; Dec 14, 2022
----Caleb Campbell; The Independent; Dec 14, 2022
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Dec 14, 2022: Fox News: Illinois teacher says critics of woke ed creating 'Christian nationalist theocracy' that will 'unlive people'
A teacher at Crete-Monee High School located in Chicago blasted "right-wing conspiracy theorist nut jobs" for opposing the woke indoctrination of children on a video on TikTok. The self-described "liberal" teacher, Heather Marie Godbout, regularly posts about "anti-racist education." For example, the teacher does not traditionally grade her students for equity purposes. |
"I really do try hard in my life to lead with compassion. I do. But we're talking about people who right now are legitimately trying to bring down our democracy and create a Christian nationalist theocracy." --self-described "liberal" teacher, Heather Marie Godbout |
Dec 6, 2022: Atlantic Journal Constitution: Some Georgia pastors push back against spread of Christian nationalism
The way the Rev. Will Dyer sees it, if pastors aren’t speaking out against Christian nationalism, then they’re making a huge mistake.
Dyer, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Augusta, has addressed the ideology in his sermons and in private conversations with members, cautioning against the philosophy that some say calls for the blending of religion and government.
His stance cost him about 10 members from his congregation, which has an average Sunday attendance of 1,000.
“It’s something I had to do,” Dyer said of his decision to speak on the issue. “It’s a reality in all of our churches and pulpits.”
The way the Rev. Will Dyer sees it, if pastors aren’t speaking out against Christian nationalism, then they’re making a huge mistake.
Dyer, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Augusta, has addressed the ideology in his sermons and in private conversations with members, cautioning against the philosophy that some say calls for the blending of religion and government.
His stance cost him about 10 members from his congregation, which has an average Sunday attendance of 1,000.
“It’s something I had to do,” Dyer said of his decision to speak on the issue. “It’s a reality in all of our churches and pulpits.”
Dec 5, 2022: NPR: Georgia's U.S. Senate race pits the Black church against white Christian nationalism
Georgia's next U.S. Senator will be the incumbent or a former NFL player. Both men are Black. The race pits the Black church's legacy of social justice against the white conservative evangelical vote.
Georgia's next U.S. Senator will be the incumbent or a former NFL player. Both men are Black. The race pits the Black church's legacy of social justice against the white conservative evangelical vote.
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Dec 1, 2022: Religion News: Ye’s Trump dinner is a high point for Catholic nationalists’ influence campaign
This cadre of media-savvy, mostly right-wing Catholics are exacting a growing allegiance from far-right political figures and groups. While some, including Fuentes, have attached themselves to seemingly quixotic causes such as Ye’s own nascent presidential bid, the dinner at Mar-a-Lago showcased how they have succeeded in gaining entree for their vision of American politics. |
november
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Nov 28, 2022: Gospel Coalition: The Rise of Right-Wing Wokeism
Review: ‘The Case for Christian Nationalism’ by Stephen Wolfe |
This is a long review, so let me state my conclusion up front: I understand and sympathize with the desire for something like Christian Nationalism, but if this book represents the best of that ism, then Christian Nationalism isn’t the answer the church or our nation needs. For all the fine retrieval work Wolfe does in parts of the book, the overall project must be rejected. 11.28.22 |
Nov 26, 2022: Salon: Evangelical pastor fights back against Christian nationalism
One pastor who is critical of the relationship between Trump and the Christian Right is Caleb Campbell of the Desert Springs Bible Church in Phoenix, Arizona. According to a report from the Globe & Mail's Nathan VanderKlippe, Campbell is trying to counter the Trump/MAGA influence on evangelicals.
One pastor who is critical of the relationship between Trump and the Christian Right is Caleb Campbell of the Desert Springs Bible Church in Phoenix, Arizona. According to a report from the Globe & Mail's Nathan VanderKlippe, Campbell is trying to counter the Trump/MAGA influence on evangelicals.
Nov 22, 2022: Current: David French’s civic pluralism versus Al Mohler’s Christian nationalism
Here is Mohler’s take on French’s argument:
But was French flatly against same-sex civil marriage? It now appears that the answer is no, and has been no for a long time. French identifies as a civil libertarian who wants to see a balancing of interests and claims within pluralism. As for his position on redefining marriage as a civil institution, he writes, apparently of his 2004 position: “I wanted gay couples to enjoy marriage-equivalent legal protections but without changing the legal definition of marriage. I wanted gay couples to enjoy the legally protected right to build a life together without creating a legal superstructure that ripped apart religious freedoms that are indispensable to the health of the republic and to the flourishing of countless millions of American lives.”
That argument should astound evangelical Christians. The key issue seems to be French’s basic confidence in pluralism as the great civic goal and central political principle. But pluralism requires careful definition and boundaries. In a recent book, French explains, “I recognize pluralism as a permanent fact of American life and seek to foster a political culture that protects the autonomy and dignity of competing American ideological and religious communities.” But what, dare we ask, are the allowable boundaries of respectable pluralism? In answering this question, David French is particularly unclear. If he is clear, his view would undermine any stable public morality based on any objective moral truths.
Here is Mohler’s take on French’s argument:
But was French flatly against same-sex civil marriage? It now appears that the answer is no, and has been no for a long time. French identifies as a civil libertarian who wants to see a balancing of interests and claims within pluralism. As for his position on redefining marriage as a civil institution, he writes, apparently of his 2004 position: “I wanted gay couples to enjoy marriage-equivalent legal protections but without changing the legal definition of marriage. I wanted gay couples to enjoy the legally protected right to build a life together without creating a legal superstructure that ripped apart religious freedoms that are indispensable to the health of the republic and to the flourishing of countless millions of American lives.”
That argument should astound evangelical Christians. The key issue seems to be French’s basic confidence in pluralism as the great civic goal and central political principle. But pluralism requires careful definition and boundaries. In a recent book, French explains, “I recognize pluralism as a permanent fact of American life and seek to foster a political culture that protects the autonomy and dignity of competing American ideological and religious communities.” But what, dare we ask, are the allowable boundaries of respectable pluralism? In answering this question, David French is particularly unclear. If he is clear, his view would undermine any stable public morality based on any objective moral truths.
Nov 22, 2022: The Bulwark: The Growing Religious/Secular Rift on the Illiberal Right
Within National Conservative circles, there are two competing narratives about the status of religion—even state-sponsored religion. To hear conservative Christians at the National Conservatism III convention earlier this year, they represent the vanguard of nationalist politics. If “conservatism as a movement has a future, it is a future that is going to be increasingly tied to explicit theological claims and confession—or there will be nothing left to conserve,” declared one keynote speaker, Al Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Convention’s flagship university. Fr. Benedict Kiely claimed “conservatives are social conservatives or they are not conservative.” William Wolfe, a Trump administration official, wraps Trumpism in Protestant garb and claims Christians should “demand” an America First agenda. Meanwhile, claiming that secular types “are a small minority” among the NatCons, R.R. Reno, the editor of First Things, told the Dispatch that “it’s the religious people that are the forefront of actually speaking out” against the progressive left. Rev. Uri Brito, a biblical theocrat and cleric associated with the convention, noted he wouldn’t “want to be a part of a movement where atheists are guiding that movement.”
Within National Conservative circles, there are two competing narratives about the status of religion—even state-sponsored religion. To hear conservative Christians at the National Conservatism III convention earlier this year, they represent the vanguard of nationalist politics. If “conservatism as a movement has a future, it is a future that is going to be increasingly tied to explicit theological claims and confession—or there will be nothing left to conserve,” declared one keynote speaker, Al Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Convention’s flagship university. Fr. Benedict Kiely claimed “conservatives are social conservatives or they are not conservative.” William Wolfe, a Trump administration official, wraps Trumpism in Protestant garb and claims Christians should “demand” an America First agenda. Meanwhile, claiming that secular types “are a small minority” among the NatCons, R.R. Reno, the editor of First Things, told the Dispatch that “it’s the religious people that are the forefront of actually speaking out” against the progressive left. Rev. Uri Brito, a biblical theocrat and cleric associated with the convention, noted he wouldn’t “want to be a part of a movement where atheists are guiding that movement.”
November 15, 2022: Best selling Christian author and Living Proof Ministries president Beth Moore made a comment regarding Christian nationalism that went viral on Twitter yesterday (Nov 14).
Moore’s words didn’t leave any room for interpretation, as she let her Christian followers know exactly where she stands when it comes to the political philosophy.
“Christian nationalism isn’t the way ahead for Jesus followers. Christian faithfulness is,” the renowned Bible teacher explained. “It’s fidelity to Christ—not fidelity to notions of American Christianity or to any political party—that will bring light into this present darkness. The church is bride to no one but Christ.” --Church Leader: Beth Moore’s Tweet on Christian Nationalism Goes Viral
Moore’s words didn’t leave any room for interpretation, as she let her Christian followers know exactly where she stands when it comes to the political philosophy.
“Christian nationalism isn’t the way ahead for Jesus followers. Christian faithfulness is,” the renowned Bible teacher explained. “It’s fidelity to Christ—not fidelity to notions of American Christianity or to any political party—that will bring light into this present darkness. The church is bride to no one but Christ.” --Church Leader: Beth Moore’s Tweet on Christian Nationalism Goes Viral
November 13, 2022:
White evangelicalism enters DeSantis season
Last week, DeSantis raised some eyebrows with a new campaign ad, an ad that seems to claim the Almighty created DeSantis especially for the good people of Florida. According to the ad, on the eighth day of creation, “God looked down on his planned paradise and said, ‘I need a protector.’ So God made a fighter.” The fighter is DeSantis, of course, who will “save their jobs, their livelihoods, their liberty, their happiness.” 11.13.22
White evangelicalism enters DeSantis season
Last week, DeSantis raised some eyebrows with a new campaign ad, an ad that seems to claim the Almighty created DeSantis especially for the good people of Florida. According to the ad, on the eighth day of creation, “God looked down on his planned paradise and said, ‘I need a protector.’ So God made a fighter.” The fighter is DeSantis, of course, who will “save their jobs, their livelihoods, their liberty, their happiness.” 11.13.22
November 12, 2022
Religion News Service: Josh Shapiro and me
Pennsylvania's governor-elect bravely ran on inclusiveness against a candidate who leveraged Christian nationalism. He may have also figured his inclusiveness provided a crucial contrast with the manner in which his opponent deployed religion. State Senator Doug Mastriano used Christian nationalist symbols and paid a consultant whose website welcomes antisemitic contributors (among them the Pittsburgh synagogue shooter). Shapiro’s victory feels like a win for citizens of all faiths, rather than only Christians. 11.12.22
Pennsylvania's governor-elect bravely ran on inclusiveness against a candidate who leveraged Christian nationalism. He may have also figured his inclusiveness provided a crucial contrast with the manner in which his opponent deployed religion. State Senator Doug Mastriano used Christian nationalist symbols and paid a consultant whose website welcomes antisemitic contributors (among them the Pittsburgh synagogue shooter). Shapiro’s victory feels like a win for citizens of all faiths, rather than only Christians. 11.12.22
November 12, 2022:
Religion News: A ‘missionary to Christian nationalists,’ Phoenix pastor urges conversion, not confrontation Phoenix pastor Caleb Campbell has a theory about the growing number of Americans who are labeled as Christian nationalists.
Most would rather go to Cracker Barrel than storm the Capitol.
Many see themselves as good Christians who love their country. But somewhere along the way, they began to think being a good American and being a Christian were one and the same.
Religion News: A ‘missionary to Christian nationalists,’ Phoenix pastor urges conversion, not confrontation Phoenix pastor Caleb Campbell has a theory about the growing number of Americans who are labeled as Christian nationalists.
Most would rather go to Cracker Barrel than storm the Capitol.
Many see themselves as good Christians who love their country. But somewhere along the way, they began to think being a good American and being a Christian were one and the same.
November 11, 2022:
Pennsylvania Capital Star: Were the 2022 midterm results a rejection of white Christian Nationalism?
Some elected officials— such as U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia — unapologetically espoused the belief that the United States is—or should be—a Christian country, governed by Christian beliefs and leaders.
Others — such as Pennsylvania senator and gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano — denied ties to this movement, but clearly delivered messages that were sympathetic, if not supportive without the specific statement of support. And I would venture to say that all the issues described above are tied into a White Christian Nationalist philosophy. 11.11.22
Pennsylvania Capital Star: Were the 2022 midterm results a rejection of white Christian Nationalism?
Some elected officials— such as U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia — unapologetically espoused the belief that the United States is—or should be—a Christian country, governed by Christian beliefs and leaders.
Others — such as Pennsylvania senator and gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano — denied ties to this movement, but clearly delivered messages that were sympathetic, if not supportive without the specific statement of support. And I would venture to say that all the issues described above are tied into a White Christian Nationalist philosophy. 11.11.22
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KXL: ‘Christian nationalism’ threatens democracy, some experts say
Religion has become a constant theme in the ongoing 2022 midterm election cycle, with candidates and other political figures invoking Biblical imagery at rallies, saying that God is on their side in a divinely inspired fight against evil. 11.9.22 |
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November 8, 2022:
Wisconsin Examiner: Pastor warns about Christian nationalism, preaches alternatives for faith-rooted politics
Pagitt is an evangelical pastor and the founder of the nonprofit organization Vote Common Good. His warning isn’t that religion and politics don’t mix.
Instead, it’s about how they mix — and how, he argues, a particular intersection of politics and religion threatens democracy in the United States.
That intersection is Christian nationalism: a movement to impose particular interpretations of Christian doctrine on public policy, using those doctrines as their own justification and with a willingness to enforce them with violence.
“It’s the belief that the United States of America is fundamentally committed to the Christian understanding and agenda in how it runs society and government,” Pagitt says. “There’s a movement afoot among a number of elected officials who are advocating for Christianity to play a more dominant role in our government — not just in our society, not just in public discourse, but in our government.”
Wisconsin Examiner: Pastor warns about Christian nationalism, preaches alternatives for faith-rooted politics
Pagitt is an evangelical pastor and the founder of the nonprofit organization Vote Common Good. His warning isn’t that religion and politics don’t mix.
Instead, it’s about how they mix — and how, he argues, a particular intersection of politics and religion threatens democracy in the United States.
That intersection is Christian nationalism: a movement to impose particular interpretations of Christian doctrine on public policy, using those doctrines as their own justification and with a willingness to enforce them with violence.
“It’s the belief that the United States of America is fundamentally committed to the Christian understanding and agenda in how it runs society and government,” Pagitt says. “There’s a movement afoot among a number of elected officials who are advocating for Christianity to play a more dominant role in our government — not just in our society, not just in public discourse, but in our government.”
Vice: Meet the ‘Black Robe Regiment’ of Extremist Pastors Spreading Christian Nationalism
The movement, imbued with support from far-right political activists like Michael Flynn, wants pastors to play a central role in not only preaching politics from the pulpit but also actively getting their congregations to rise up and claim election fraud by weaving myths about the American Revolution together with modern-day conspiracy theories and hard-line Christianity. 11.8.22
The movement, imbued with support from far-right political activists like Michael Flynn, wants pastors to play a central role in not only preaching politics from the pulpit but also actively getting their congregations to rise up and claim election fraud by weaving myths about the American Revolution together with modern-day conspiracy theories and hard-line Christianity. 11.8.22
Christian nationalism is on the ballot this week
Christian nationalism is not shorthand for an American who is both Christian and patriotic. Rather, Christian nationalists are a small yet organized slice of Americans working to hijack democracy. It’s not religion, but instead a cultural framework that conflates American identity with an exclusive form of religious identity. Its adherents are hoping to use the law and the ballot box to privilege a specific version of Christianity over people of other faiths and no faith, as well as other Christians who don’t believe the same things they do.11.7.22
Christian nationalism is not shorthand for an American who is both Christian and patriotic. Rather, Christian nationalists are a small yet organized slice of Americans working to hijack democracy. It’s not religion, but instead a cultural framework that conflates American identity with an exclusive form of religious identity. Its adherents are hoping to use the law and the ballot box to privilege a specific version of Christianity over people of other faiths and no faith, as well as other Christians who don’t believe the same things they do.11.7.22
Ron DeSantis and his blatant Christian Nationalism on display in a chilling campaign ad
The black-and-white video uses a male narrator appearing to speak from heavenly places to declare: “And on the eighth day, God looked down on his planned paradise and said, ‘I need a protector.’ So God made him (DeSantis) a fighter. God said, ‘I need somebody willing to get up before dawn and kiss his family goodbye, travel thousands of miles for no other reason than to serve the people, to save their jobs, their livelihoods, their liberty, their happiness.’ So God made a fighter.”11.7.22
The black-and-white video uses a male narrator appearing to speak from heavenly places to declare: “And on the eighth day, God looked down on his planned paradise and said, ‘I need a protector.’ So God made him (DeSantis) a fighter. God said, ‘I need somebody willing to get up before dawn and kiss his family goodbye, travel thousands of miles for no other reason than to serve the people, to save their jobs, their livelihoods, their liberty, their happiness.’ So God made a fighter.”11.7.22
The Guardian: ‘He was chosen’: the rightwing Christian roadshow spreading the gospel of Trump
Part Trump rally, part religious service, and much conspiracy theory thrown in – on the eve of the midterms, Ed Pilkington visits the ReAwaken America tour. 11.6.22
Part Trump rally, part religious service, and much conspiracy theory thrown in – on the eve of the midterms, Ed Pilkington visits the ReAwaken America tour. 11.6.22
Texas Observer: CHRISTIANS MUST PUBLICLY DENOUNCE CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM
The term “Christian nationalism” means different things to different people. That makes it easier for political and religious leaders to falsely claim this dangerous ideology will make our country better. I am using Andrew Whitehead and Samuel Perry’s definition from Taking America Back For God. They spent five years analyzing data and conducting interviews about Christian nationalism in the United States, and they define the term as follows:
“Christian nationalism is a cultural framework—a collection of myths, traditions, symbols, narratives, and value systems—that idealizes and advocates a fusion of Christianity with American civil life.”
They emphasize that “Christianity” here means something other than its usual definition. It is not simply a religion whose adherents worship Jesus as Lord. 11.5.22
The term “Christian nationalism” means different things to different people. That makes it easier for political and religious leaders to falsely claim this dangerous ideology will make our country better. I am using Andrew Whitehead and Samuel Perry’s definition from Taking America Back For God. They spent five years analyzing data and conducting interviews about Christian nationalism in the United States, and they define the term as follows:
“Christian nationalism is a cultural framework—a collection of myths, traditions, symbols, narratives, and value systems—that idealizes and advocates a fusion of Christianity with American civil life.”
They emphasize that “Christianity” here means something other than its usual definition. It is not simply a religion whose adherents worship Jesus as Lord. 11.5.22
Washington Post: In existential midterm races, Christian prophets become GOP surrogates
Lance Wallnau used to be a corporate marketer who privately believed that power lay in prophetic revelation. Then came 2015, and he began sharing a word from God: Donald Trump was “anointed.”
Congressional districts have changed. Find yours for the 2022 midterm elections.Seven years later, prophecy is booming. And for Wallnau, it’s been a busy run-up to the midterm.
In July, Wallnau prayed over Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) before a cheering Atlanta arena audience. By early September, he was at a conference outside Colorado Springs with Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.). And, a few days after that, here he was in the suburbs of Harrisburg, Pa., for GOP gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano, whom he compared to George Washington at Valley Forge.
11.5.22
Lance Wallnau used to be a corporate marketer who privately believed that power lay in prophetic revelation. Then came 2015, and he began sharing a word from God: Donald Trump was “anointed.”
Congressional districts have changed. Find yours for the 2022 midterm elections.Seven years later, prophecy is booming. And for Wallnau, it’s been a busy run-up to the midterm.
In July, Wallnau prayed over Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) before a cheering Atlanta arena audience. By early September, he was at a conference outside Colorado Springs with Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.). And, a few days after that, here he was in the suburbs of Harrisburg, Pa., for GOP gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano, whom he compared to George Washington at Valley Forge.
11.5.22
Red Letter Christians: Why the False Prophets of Christian Nationalism Don’t Speak for Me
In an important panel discussion with the Christians Against Christian Nationalism initiative and Jim Wallis last week, Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry underscored an important fact: Christian Nationalism* is not Christianity. “If you look at the complex of white Christian Nationalism as an ideology,” Curry warned, “you lay it alongside Jesus of Nazareth and we’re not even talking about the same thing.” 11.4.22 |
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National Catholic Reporter: Major Christian leaders asked Jan. 6 committee to investigate Christian nationalism
In addition to BJC head Amanda Tyler, signers of the letter included prominent faith leaders such as the heads of mainline and historically Black denominations. Among the signatories is Rev. Michael B. Curry, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church; Rev. David Peoples, president of the Progressive National Baptist Convention; Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; Rev. Jimmie R. Hawkins, director of multiple Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) advocacy offices; Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, interim president and general secretary of the National Council of Churches; Rev. John C. Dorhauer, general minister and president of the United Church of Christ; and Rev. Paul Baxley, executive coordinator of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship.
Activists and scholars who have been outspoken about Christian nationalism also signed on, such as Shane Claiborne, head of Red Letter Christians; Rev. Jennifer Butler, founder of Faith in Public Life; scholar and author Jemar Tisby; Mary J. Novak, head of the Network Lobby for Catholic Social Justice; Anthea Butler, chair of the department of religious studies at the University of Pennsylvania; and Jim Wallis, founder of Sojourners and director of the Center on Faith and Justice at Georgetown University.
11.4.22
In addition to BJC head Amanda Tyler, signers of the letter included prominent faith leaders such as the heads of mainline and historically Black denominations. Among the signatories is Rev. Michael B. Curry, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church; Rev. David Peoples, president of the Progressive National Baptist Convention; Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; Rev. Jimmie R. Hawkins, director of multiple Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) advocacy offices; Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, interim president and general secretary of the National Council of Churches; Rev. John C. Dorhauer, general minister and president of the United Church of Christ; and Rev. Paul Baxley, executive coordinator of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship.
Activists and scholars who have been outspoken about Christian nationalism also signed on, such as Shane Claiborne, head of Red Letter Christians; Rev. Jennifer Butler, founder of Faith in Public Life; scholar and author Jemar Tisby; Mary J. Novak, head of the Network Lobby for Catholic Social Justice; Anthea Butler, chair of the department of religious studies at the University of Pennsylvania; and Jim Wallis, founder of Sojourners and director of the Center on Faith and Justice at Georgetown University.
11.4.22
The New Yorker: Russell Moore on Christian Nationalism
Russell Moore, a prominent figure in the Southern Baptist Convention, resigned over the church’s response to racism—which Moore considers a sin—and documented sexual-abuse allegations. The theologian sits down with David Remnick to reflect on the intersection of Christianity and American politics. “Jesus always refused to have his gospel used as a means to an end,” Moore says. “People who settle for Christianity or any other religion as politics are really making a pitiful deal.” Plus, the contributing writer Eliza Griswold reports on an energized movement of Christian nationalists aiming for statewide power in Pennsylvania. And Mike White, the creator of the hit HBO series “The White Lotus,” on why he is attracted to telling stories about the privileged.11.4.22
Russell Moore, a prominent figure in the Southern Baptist Convention, resigned over the church’s response to racism—which Moore considers a sin—and documented sexual-abuse allegations. The theologian sits down with David Remnick to reflect on the intersection of Christianity and American politics. “Jesus always refused to have his gospel used as a means to an end,” Moore says. “People who settle for Christianity or any other religion as politics are really making a pitiful deal.” Plus, the contributing writer Eliza Griswold reports on an energized movement of Christian nationalists aiming for statewide power in Pennsylvania. And Mike White, the creator of the hit HBO series “The White Lotus,” on why he is attracted to telling stories about the privileged.11.4.22
Texas Observer: CHRISTOFASCISM IS EVERYONE’S PROBLEM
The Rev. Dr. Carter Heyward's new book asks white Christians to take responsibility for dismantling America’s oppressive, patriarchal systems 11.3.22
The Rev. Dr. Carter Heyward's new book asks white Christians to take responsibility for dismantling America’s oppressive, patriarchal systems 11.3.22
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Nov 3, 2022: Phys.org: Talk of 'Christian nationalism' is getting a lot louder. But what does the term really mean?
Few Americans use the term "Christian nationalist" to describe themselves, but many more have embraced some aspects of this worldview. There is widespread confusion over what the label really means, making it important to clearly explain. My work on how race and religion shape Americans' attitudes toward government led me to study Christian nationalism, and to co-write a book detailing how it shapes Americans' views of themselves, their government and their place in the world. |
Images linking Christianity with the nation and with Trump, as part of a larger divine mission, were on full display during the attack on the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. In the most extreme Christian nationalist views, the government must be brought into alignment with this ideology—even if force is necessary. 11.3.22 |
The Case for Christian Nationalism by Stephen Wolfe
Publisher : Canon Press (November 1, 2022)
Language : English
Paperback : 488 pages....
There are major problems with The Case for Christian Nationalism. First, regarding style, Wolfe is far from accessible. This book is slow going. Wolfe claims to “resurrect” the style of the Magisterial Reformers and to counteract tweetable sound bites with “the force of logic.” At times, though, it seems as if Wolfe’s strategy is to employ a verbal barrage as a tidal wave to obscure just how debatable some of his contentions are, whether condoning Christian violent revolution or warning against the perils of seed oil. Second, Wolfe is hardly charitable to any challenge or disagreement. Wolfe dismisses any criticism of Christian nationalism as lacking logical coherence, being critically beholden to leftist sociology, or just not in his domain (like theology.) He simply cannot entertain a world where he might be wrong.
For more substantial political, historical, and philosophical criticism, others have written long critiques, most notably Kevin DeYoung, Neil Shenvi, Brian Mattson, and Susannah Black Roberts. I, however, wish to address several ways that Wolfe betrays his own tradition—a betrayal that ought to make us wary of his approach to scholarship in general.
Wolfe writes explicitly as a Presbyterian and endorses a Presbyterian Christian nationalism. Reformed Presbyterians are compelled by conscience, tradition, and confession to found any theological and theological-political program upon scripture first. Yet Wolfe does not even make a passing effort to consult scripture to bolster his arguments; instead, he says, “I make little effort to exegete biblical text.” He attempts instead to validate his arguments by appealing to the Magisterial Reformers (including John Calvin), Puritans, and others. Throughout his argument, scripture is decorative, not foundational. In the most theological chapters, the first and second, Wolfe writes dozens of pages with hardly one proof text, let alone serious explication or exegesis. Within the tradition Wolfe claims as his own, this move is inexcusable. Any reader of the Westminster Divines, Calvin, and the Puritans knows this: do not start an argument by saying “I will ignore scripture.” The Reformed tradition long admits that it stands or falls on privileging scripture when interpreting human experience and obligations, and that more systematically than any other Christian tradition. In dismissing scripture, Wolfe betrays his confession and the theological giants whose shoulders he claims to stand upon. With that betrayal, he casts a shadow on all his many invocations of past thinkers, for he makes little effort to understand these theological traditions, which themselves are rooted in biblical reflection. Instead, he merely exploits them.
Second, Wolfe minimizes the effect of sin on human society and civil life. For Wolfe, the Fall’s main effect was spiritual: it compromised man’s relationship with God and merited divine wrath but did not substantially damage man’s natural, earthly (civil) relationships. Thus, humans may consult their natural gifts or instincts for guidance in civil order. Again, Wolfe claims that grace does not abrogate nature but perfects it. This theology of sin is nowhere close to the Augustinian, Protestant, Presbyterian traditions. As Wolfe downplays human sin and overemphasizes natural human instincts and impulses, he ironically arrives in the same philosophical zip code as a Rousseau or a Schleiermacher—hardly champions of traditional Christian thought. --Acton Institute
Publisher : Canon Press (November 1, 2022)
Language : English
Paperback : 488 pages....
There are major problems with The Case for Christian Nationalism. First, regarding style, Wolfe is far from accessible. This book is slow going. Wolfe claims to “resurrect” the style of the Magisterial Reformers and to counteract tweetable sound bites with “the force of logic.” At times, though, it seems as if Wolfe’s strategy is to employ a verbal barrage as a tidal wave to obscure just how debatable some of his contentions are, whether condoning Christian violent revolution or warning against the perils of seed oil. Second, Wolfe is hardly charitable to any challenge or disagreement. Wolfe dismisses any criticism of Christian nationalism as lacking logical coherence, being critically beholden to leftist sociology, or just not in his domain (like theology.) He simply cannot entertain a world where he might be wrong.
For more substantial political, historical, and philosophical criticism, others have written long critiques, most notably Kevin DeYoung, Neil Shenvi, Brian Mattson, and Susannah Black Roberts. I, however, wish to address several ways that Wolfe betrays his own tradition—a betrayal that ought to make us wary of his approach to scholarship in general.
Wolfe writes explicitly as a Presbyterian and endorses a Presbyterian Christian nationalism. Reformed Presbyterians are compelled by conscience, tradition, and confession to found any theological and theological-political program upon scripture first. Yet Wolfe does not even make a passing effort to consult scripture to bolster his arguments; instead, he says, “I make little effort to exegete biblical text.” He attempts instead to validate his arguments by appealing to the Magisterial Reformers (including John Calvin), Puritans, and others. Throughout his argument, scripture is decorative, not foundational. In the most theological chapters, the first and second, Wolfe writes dozens of pages with hardly one proof text, let alone serious explication or exegesis. Within the tradition Wolfe claims as his own, this move is inexcusable. Any reader of the Westminster Divines, Calvin, and the Puritans knows this: do not start an argument by saying “I will ignore scripture.” The Reformed tradition long admits that it stands or falls on privileging scripture when interpreting human experience and obligations, and that more systematically than any other Christian tradition. In dismissing scripture, Wolfe betrays his confession and the theological giants whose shoulders he claims to stand upon. With that betrayal, he casts a shadow on all his many invocations of past thinkers, for he makes little effort to understand these theological traditions, which themselves are rooted in biblical reflection. Instead, he merely exploits them.
Second, Wolfe minimizes the effect of sin on human society and civil life. For Wolfe, the Fall’s main effect was spiritual: it compromised man’s relationship with God and merited divine wrath but did not substantially damage man’s natural, earthly (civil) relationships. Thus, humans may consult their natural gifts or instincts for guidance in civil order. Again, Wolfe claims that grace does not abrogate nature but perfects it. This theology of sin is nowhere close to the Augustinian, Protestant, Presbyterian traditions. As Wolfe downplays human sin and overemphasizes natural human instincts and impulses, he ironically arrives in the same philosophical zip code as a Rousseau or a Schleiermacher—hardly champions of traditional Christian thought. --Acton Institute
october
Oct 31, 2022: Christianity Today: Christian Nationalism Debates Expose Clashing Views of Power
Caleb Campbell didn’t know he needed the term Christian nationalism.
He’d heard it, here and there, but it hadn’t really registered. It was at the edge of his awareness and his vocabulary as he tried to understand the disputes over racism, the pandemic, and the election that rocked his evangelical church in suburban Phoenix throughout 2020.
Then the new year started, a mock gallows was erected at the Capitol, and his social media showed some in the mob carried signs that said, “JESUS SAVES.” His mind strained to make sense of the two things together, and he remembered from somewhere that there was a term.
Christian nationalism.
“I needed that phrase to name it,” said Campbell, pastor of Desert Springs Bible Church. “This is a heresy. It’s a complete distortion of Jesus’ doctrine of power. I think Christian nationalism started in the Garden of Gethsemane when Jesus was reaching for the Cross, and Peter, who loves Jesus, thought he should protect him with a sword.”
Caleb Campbell didn’t know he needed the term Christian nationalism.
He’d heard it, here and there, but it hadn’t really registered. It was at the edge of his awareness and his vocabulary as he tried to understand the disputes over racism, the pandemic, and the election that rocked his evangelical church in suburban Phoenix throughout 2020.
Then the new year started, a mock gallows was erected at the Capitol, and his social media showed some in the mob carried signs that said, “JESUS SAVES.” His mind strained to make sense of the two things together, and he remembered from somewhere that there was a term.
Christian nationalism.
“I needed that phrase to name it,” said Campbell, pastor of Desert Springs Bible Church. “This is a heresy. It’s a complete distortion of Jesus’ doctrine of power. I think Christian nationalism started in the Garden of Gethsemane when Jesus was reaching for the Cross, and Peter, who loves Jesus, thought he should protect him with a sword.”
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Oct 26, 2022: NC Policy Watch: North Carolina Republican leaders embrace Christian nationalism
Conservative pastors, political allies aim to tear down any wall between church and state When Pastor Ken Graves took the podium at Calvary Chapel Lake Norman in Statesville last month, he cut an imposing figure. |
Dr. Scott Huffmon, a professor of Political Science at Winthrop University in South Carolina, said these are core tenets of Christian nationalist ideology that has long emphasized certain Bible passages its adherents believe provide a rationale for their political agendas. “It’s a form of active politics that depends on certain Biblical interpretations and enforcing those interpretations,” Huffmon said. “The anti-homosexual agenda and the hyper-masculine agenda are both parts of it. It teaches from II Timothy that women should not teach men, that men are the head of the household, the sheriff of their own hearth, they are in charge.” It’s a philosophical line echoed by Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, who has used his frequent appearances at Renewal Project events — and a recent memoir — to promote the idea Christians are “called to be led by men” and push back on women who he believes try to dominate him. 10.26.22 |
Christian Post: The Left isn’t afraid of Christian nationalism. Here's what they fear. 10.11.22
Citizen Times: Opinion: Christian Nationalism entails making an idol of the nation
One of the well-established theories in sociology of religion is that governments and religions are drawn to each other. Governments want legitimization from God through religions, and religions want protection and sponsorship from governments. In addition, religious people feel that if their religion is named as the religion of their nation, they gain power and confidence in their religion and its values. This latter motivation is close to what the “Christian Nationalists” want. In other words, if they can have America declare itself a Christian nation, that reinforces their religious influence. This is actually a heresy of faith in making an idol of the nation instead of depending on God’s given means of grace: the word, sacraments, fellowship, and prayer (see Acts 2:42). 10.9.22
One of the well-established theories in sociology of religion is that governments and religions are drawn to each other. Governments want legitimization from God through religions, and religions want protection and sponsorship from governments. In addition, religious people feel that if their religion is named as the religion of their nation, they gain power and confidence in their religion and its values. This latter motivation is close to what the “Christian Nationalists” want. In other words, if they can have America declare itself a Christian nation, that reinforces their religious influence. This is actually a heresy of faith in making an idol of the nation instead of depending on God’s given means of grace: the word, sacraments, fellowship, and prayer (see Acts 2:42). 10.9.22
The Dispatch: The Spiritual Lessons of a Christian Nationalist Military Defeat
On February 24, the world’s most powerful Christian nationalist went to war, at the helm of what many people considered to be one of the world’s most potent militaries. Russian President Vladimir Putin spent more than two decades—exercising more power than any American president could ever hope to possess—forging church, state, and culture into an (allegedly) mighty instrument of raw, anti-woke national power. 10.9.22
On February 24, the world’s most powerful Christian nationalist went to war, at the helm of what many people considered to be one of the world’s most potent militaries. Russian President Vladimir Putin spent more than two decades—exercising more power than any American president could ever hope to possess—forging church, state, and culture into an (allegedly) mighty instrument of raw, anti-woke national power. 10.9.22
“Jesus warned us about Michael Flynn’s ReAwaken America Tour: Beware of false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”
-Rev. Jennifer Butler
-Rev. Jennifer Butler
AP: Michael Flynn's ReAwaken Roadshow Recruits "Armies of God."
“We’re under warfare,” one speaker told them. Another said she would “take a bullet for my nation,” while a third insisted, “They hate you because they hate Jesus.” Attendees were told now is the time to “put on the whole armor of God.” Then retired three-star Army general Michael Flynn, the tour’s biggest draw, invited people to be baptized.10.7.22
“We’re under warfare,” one speaker told them. Another said she would “take a bullet for my nation,” while a third insisted, “They hate you because they hate Jesus.” Attendees were told now is the time to “put on the whole armor of God.” Then retired three-star Army general Michael Flynn, the tour’s biggest draw, invited people to be baptized.10.7.22
Breakpoint: Should Christians Be Nationalists?
This is where we can heed the wisdom of Abraham Kuyper, someone who was both a theologian and politician in his native Netherlands. Whenever the state exceeds its natural sphere as one part of society, people start to think of the state as society. While the state has its place, it also has its limitations. Loving our neighbor in the political sphere is part of our Christian calling, but we must always remember that politics is a jealous and greedy god all too prone to consume those who would control it. 10.6.22
This is where we can heed the wisdom of Abraham Kuyper, someone who was both a theologian and politician in his native Netherlands. Whenever the state exceeds its natural sphere as one part of society, people start to think of the state as society. While the state has its place, it also has its limitations. Loving our neighbor in the political sphere is part of our Christian calling, but we must always remember that politics is a jealous and greedy god all too prone to consume those who would control it. 10.6.22
Only Sky: Herschel Walker paid for an abortion. His Christian supporters won’t care.
Remember that Walker has other demons in his closet, too. One of his ex-wives said Walker put a gun to her head and said to her, “I’m going to blow your f’ing brains out.” He also separately threatened to kill her and her new boyfriend. He lied about his success in the business world, making far far less than he bragged about publicly. He only registered to vote in Georgia a year ago. He barely votes, period. His current wife allegedly committed voting fraud by voting in a state she didn’t live in. He also happens to be one of the dumbest people in public life who admitted weeks ago, “I’m not that smart.”
And yet Walker has full support from Christian nationalists like evangelist Franklin Graham, who said of him last year even after we knew about many of these demons, “He’s an outspoken Christian, he stands up for conservative values, and he’s got a lot of common sense.”
10.4.22
Remember that Walker has other demons in his closet, too. One of his ex-wives said Walker put a gun to her head and said to her, “I’m going to blow your f’ing brains out.” He also separately threatened to kill her and her new boyfriend. He lied about his success in the business world, making far far less than he bragged about publicly. He only registered to vote in Georgia a year ago. He barely votes, period. His current wife allegedly committed voting fraud by voting in a state she didn’t live in. He also happens to be one of the dumbest people in public life who admitted weeks ago, “I’m not that smart.”
And yet Walker has full support from Christian nationalists like evangelist Franklin Graham, who said of him last year even after we knew about many of these demons, “He’s an outspoken Christian, he stands up for conservative values, and he’s got a lot of common sense.”
10.4.22
Church Leaders: Christian Nationalism ‘Is Beneath the Calling of Any Christian,’ Says SBC President Bart Barber 10.4.22
“It’s a perpetual heresy. This one just is sprinkled with red, white and blue. This one tastes like apple pie.”
--Pastor Caleb Campbell; Desert Springs Bible Church defining "Christian Nationalism."
--Pastor Caleb Campbell; Desert Springs Bible Church defining "Christian Nationalism."
October 3, 2022:
Recently Heard: Michael Flynn, Trump, and the Threat of American Christian Nationalism
In September, The Associated Press and PBS Frontline published the first part of an in-depth reporting project that examined how retired Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, former national security adviser to former President Donald Trump who pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI, has been relentless. for Trump while warning his audience that the United States is in the midst of spiritual warfare. Flynn “brought together election deniers, mask and vaccine opponents, insurgents, Proud Boys, and state and local Republican elected and party leaders,” Michelle R. Smith writes. In summary, the report details how Flynn became a central figure in a network of extremists, conspiracy theorists and election deniers held together by the mainstreaming mechanism of Christian nationalism.
Recently Heard: Michael Flynn, Trump, and the Threat of American Christian Nationalism
In September, The Associated Press and PBS Frontline published the first part of an in-depth reporting project that examined how retired Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, former national security adviser to former President Donald Trump who pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI, has been relentless. for Trump while warning his audience that the United States is in the midst of spiritual warfare. Flynn “brought together election deniers, mask and vaccine opponents, insurgents, Proud Boys, and state and local Republican elected and party leaders,” Michelle R. Smith writes. In summary, the report details how Flynn became a central figure in a network of extremists, conspiracy theorists and election deniers held together by the mainstreaming mechanism of Christian nationalism.
The Ledger: A short step from queen’s funeral to Boebert
I imagine that a good many Americans watched the pomp of the queen’s state funeral with some envy that we don’t have anything like it. But as Americans we shouldn’t be envious for constitutional reasons, and I can hear one of my former teachers whispering in my ear that Christians definitely shouldn’t be, because it is a shorter step than we realize from the magnificent funeral we just witnessed to the near-fascist Christian nationalism of people like U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.). 10.2.22
I imagine that a good many Americans watched the pomp of the queen’s state funeral with some envy that we don’t have anything like it. But as Americans we shouldn’t be envious for constitutional reasons, and I can hear one of my former teachers whispering in my ear that Christians definitely shouldn’t be, because it is a shorter step than we realize from the magnificent funeral we just witnessed to the near-fascist Christian nationalism of people like U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.). 10.2.22
"While Christian nationalists are still a minority among Christians, American Christians who oppose them need to make their voices heard or risk their sentiments becoming mainstream....It’s important for Christians to provide that witness in the public square. There’s nothing wrong with Christians or anyone of any faith running for office and talking about that in the public square. The problem is in the idea that you can get elected and enforce your religious faith through government, through policy.”
--Ashley Tyler; Executive director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty
--Ashley Tyler; Executive director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty
New Republic: American Christianity Is on a Path Toward Being a Tool of Theocratic Authoritarianism 10.6.22
Oct 6, 2022: Texas Monthly: Decoding the Christian Language of Texas GOP Officials
By declaring that “evil will always walk among us” or calling for Texans to “unify in faith,” politicians communicate specific ideas to the electorate.
By declaring that “evil will always walk among us” or calling for Texans to “unify in faith,” politicians communicate specific ideas to the electorate.
October 6, 2022:
"How does the so called evangelical right still back Hershel Walker when he has been credibly accused of spousal abuse and caught in endless lies. His opponent Raphael Warnock is a long time Christian minister." -Barbra Streisand on Twitter
It's the Trump effect. Apparently the new GOP is lead by crooks and deviants.
Georgia GOP candidate Herschel Walker has a lot of demons in his closet. One of his ex-wives said Walker put a gun to her head and said to her, “I’m going to blow your fxx’ing brains out.” He also separately threatened to kill her and her new boyfriend. He lied about his success in the business world, making far far less than he bragged about publicly. He only registered to vote in Georgia a year ago. He barely votes, period. His current wife allegedly committed voting fraud by voting in a state she didn’t live in. He also happens to be one of the dumbest people in public life who admitted weeks ago, “I’m not that smart.”
And yet Walker has full support from Christian nationalists like evangelist Franklin Graham, who said of him last year even after we knew about many of these demons, “He’s an outspoken Christian, he stands up for conservative values, and he’s got a lot of common sense.”
"How does the so called evangelical right still back Hershel Walker when he has been credibly accused of spousal abuse and caught in endless lies. His opponent Raphael Warnock is a long time Christian minister." -Barbra Streisand on Twitter
It's the Trump effect. Apparently the new GOP is lead by crooks and deviants.
Georgia GOP candidate Herschel Walker has a lot of demons in his closet. One of his ex-wives said Walker put a gun to her head and said to her, “I’m going to blow your fxx’ing brains out.” He also separately threatened to kill her and her new boyfriend. He lied about his success in the business world, making far far less than he bragged about publicly. He only registered to vote in Georgia a year ago. He barely votes, period. His current wife allegedly committed voting fraud by voting in a state she didn’t live in. He also happens to be one of the dumbest people in public life who admitted weeks ago, “I’m not that smart.”
And yet Walker has full support from Christian nationalists like evangelist Franklin Graham, who said of him last year even after we knew about many of these demons, “He’s an outspoken Christian, he stands up for conservative values, and he’s got a lot of common sense.”
Concerns grow over the increasing ties between Christianity and right-wing nationalism
October 12, 2022:
After the Alex Jones verdict today, Marjorie Taylor Greene had this to say about it: “No matter what you think of Alex Jones all he did was speak words.” She wrote on Twitter: "He was not the one who pulled the trigger.
Were his words wrong and did he apologize? Yes. That’s what freedom of speech is. Freedom to speak words. Political persecution must end."
The problem with illogical people like Greene is that Jones was espousing nonsense and claiming it was "the truth." Now had Jones stated before every show that he was making stuff up...then it would be different. And he could rattle off all the nonsense he wanted to.
Jones (and Trump..and Greene) follow the same school of logic in that they feed their nonsense to "the uneducated" and and purposely feed their nonsense to the lowest common denominator on the "Illogical" scale of reality.
Greene is a Christian Nationalist, and, hence has little knowledge of what is in the Bible, let alone know who God is. ...but James 3:3-6 says; When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell."
I fully accept the explanation of the power of the tongue by James.
After the Alex Jones verdict today, Marjorie Taylor Greene had this to say about it: “No matter what you think of Alex Jones all he did was speak words.” She wrote on Twitter: "He was not the one who pulled the trigger.
Were his words wrong and did he apologize? Yes. That’s what freedom of speech is. Freedom to speak words. Political persecution must end."
The problem with illogical people like Greene is that Jones was espousing nonsense and claiming it was "the truth." Now had Jones stated before every show that he was making stuff up...then it would be different. And he could rattle off all the nonsense he wanted to.
Jones (and Trump..and Greene) follow the same school of logic in that they feed their nonsense to "the uneducated" and and purposely feed their nonsense to the lowest common denominator on the "Illogical" scale of reality.
Greene is a Christian Nationalist, and, hence has little knowledge of what is in the Bible, let alone know who God is. ...but James 3:3-6 says; When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell."
I fully accept the explanation of the power of the tongue by James.
Sojourners: DO WE DARE TO DISCIPLE PEOPLE OUT OF CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM? Two seemingly contradictory things are happening within the Religious Right: More politicians and evangelical leaders are using blatant Christian nationalist rhetoric; meanwhile, others within the movement are falsely claiming that Christian nationalism is somehow an invention of academia and the Left intended to muzzle the voice of Bible-believing Christians. 10.13.22
Daily Signal: The Fatal Flaw of Christian Nationalism
The subject of “Christian nationalism” has again appeared in our political life, establishing residence in the Republican Party. It is nothing new, though, having taken many forms in the past, including Moral Rearmament, Prohibition, Christian Reconstructionism, Moral Majority, and the Christian Coalition.
In each incarnation, people have been told that something approaching heaven on Earth can be accomplished through the political system and through a government led by folks who believe as they do. Each time the push has failed to achieve its stated goals10.13.22
The subject of “Christian nationalism” has again appeared in our political life, establishing residence in the Republican Party. It is nothing new, though, having taken many forms in the past, including Moral Rearmament, Prohibition, Christian Reconstructionism, Moral Majority, and the Christian Coalition.
In each incarnation, people have been told that something approaching heaven on Earth can be accomplished through the political system and through a government led by folks who believe as they do. Each time the push has failed to achieve its stated goals10.13.22
Oct 19, 2022: Philadelphia Inquirer: ReAwaken America proves that Christian nationalism isn’t Christian
The ReAwaken America speeches touted antisemitic, racist, sexist, and homophobic beliefs in the name of Christianity. Speeches were rife with apocalyptic and polarizing predictions of God’s vengeance befalling a wide range of opponents, including the founder of the World Economic Forum, President Joe Biden, and New York Attorney General Leticia James, who had written a letter to the tour’s local host, Pastor Paul Doyle, voicing concern that this event could spur violence. In the parking lot, I spotted a bus painted with the words “Patriot Street Fighter,” along with an image of a man in body armor with a bludgeon in his hand and the words “Get in the Fight” written in the red font of horror movies.
The ReAwaken America speeches touted antisemitic, racist, sexist, and homophobic beliefs in the name of Christianity. Speeches were rife with apocalyptic and polarizing predictions of God’s vengeance befalling a wide range of opponents, including the founder of the World Economic Forum, President Joe Biden, and New York Attorney General Leticia James, who had written a letter to the tour’s local host, Pastor Paul Doyle, voicing concern that this event could spur violence. In the parking lot, I spotted a bus painted with the words “Patriot Street Fighter,” along with an image of a man in body armor with a bludgeon in his hand and the words “Get in the Fight” written in the red font of horror movies.
October 19, 2022: Now he's just surrounded by CINOs (Christian In Name Only)â–¡
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Oct 26, 2022: Church leaders: ‘Scary Christian Nationalism’ Is a ‘Smokescreen,’ Says Voddie Baucham on Allie Beth’s Stuckey’s Podcast
Concerns about Christian nationalism are distracting Christians from engaging in the public square, argues author and former pastor Dr. Voddie Baucham Jr. Baucham joined author and cultural commentator Allie Beth Stuckey on her Relatable podcast in an Oct. 24 episode titled on YouTube, “’Christian Nationalism’ Sure Beats Progressive Globalism.” “I remember it seemed like things started to get traction, right, in terms of people waking up to the problems with this whole social justice movement,” said Baucham. “People started to speak up, you know, and speak out and all of a sudden, the folks on the other side, I think, got a little nervous. And then they started going, ‘Yeah, well what about this Christian nationalism?’” "In the Book of Acts, the Disciples asked Jesus, “Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?” (Acts 1:6 NLT). They were looking for an earthly kingdom with themselves in charge. They wanted to throw off the Roman occupation and “take over.” Make Israel great again! Later, Jesus would respond to Pontius Pilate who asked him if he was a king: “My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world.” (John 18:36 NLT). That statement is a powerful rebuke to those who seek a kingdom that would be as flawed as they are if it ever came to fruition." --Cal Thomas; The Fatal Flaw of Christian Nationalism (October 2022) |
Oct 24, 2022: Baptist News Global: ‘Christian nation’ myth is fundamental to Christian nationalism, speakers warn
One of the scariest things about Christian nationalism — especially for a Black Baptist minister— is its symbiotic relationship with white supremacy expressed through the myth that America was founded as a Christian nation, Christopher McKee Jr. explained to an interfaith audience in Jacksonville, Fla.
One of the scariest things about Christian nationalism — especially for a Black Baptist minister— is its symbiotic relationship with white supremacy expressed through the myth that America was founded as a Christian nation, Christopher McKee Jr. explained to an interfaith audience in Jacksonville, Fla.
Oct 24, 2022: The Hill: Juan Williams: The GOP is embracing Christian nationalism
A recent controversy centered on President Trump is emblematic of a broader trend.
The evidence is piling up that former President Trump, the leading candidate for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, is also the leader of a white, Christian nationalist movement.
A recent controversy centered on President Trump is emblematic of a broader trend.
The evidence is piling up that former President Trump, the leading candidate for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, is also the leader of a white, Christian nationalist movement.
Ideastream: 'Ohio has a particular appetite for Christian Nationalism,' group says
Christian Nationalism is the belief that the United States was established as a Christian nation so the government has an obligation to support the Christian faith through its laws and structures.
Some scholars say Christian Nationalists often want to preserve the historical status quo by implementing homophobic, racist and sexist laws.
10.24.22
Christian Nationalism is the belief that the United States was established as a Christian nation so the government has an obligation to support the Christian faith through its laws and structures.
Some scholars say Christian Nationalists often want to preserve the historical status quo by implementing homophobic, racist and sexist laws.
10.24.22
The Conversation: Christian nationalism poses a threat to human rights in Ghana
Ghana is a religious country. According to the 2021 census, about 71% of the population is Christian and 18% Muslim. Followers of indigenous or animistic religious beliefs make up another 5%, and 6% are members of other religious groups or don’t have religious beliefs.
Many Ghanaians regard Ghana as a “nation of Christians.”
The New Patriotic Party’s electoral slogan in 2016 and 2020 was: “For the battle is the Lord’s.” These are words David is said to have uttered when confronting Goliath in their biblical combat. The party’s electoral slogan referenced the Christian god and implied the party was fighting a holy battle in seeking the presidency and a parliamentary majority.
10.24.22
Ghana is a religious country. According to the 2021 census, about 71% of the population is Christian and 18% Muslim. Followers of indigenous or animistic religious beliefs make up another 5%, and 6% are members of other religious groups or don’t have religious beliefs.
Many Ghanaians regard Ghana as a “nation of Christians.”
The New Patriotic Party’s electoral slogan in 2016 and 2020 was: “For the battle is the Lord’s.” These are words David is said to have uttered when confronting Goliath in their biblical combat. The party’s electoral slogan referenced the Christian god and implied the party was fighting a holy battle in seeking the presidency and a parliamentary majority.
10.24.22
The Atlantic: The Desecrations of Michael Flynn
A prayer at a “ReAwaken America” event in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, a few days ago, at which Michael Flynn appeared, captured the sensibilities of this moment: “Father God, we come to you in the name of Jesus. We’re asking you to open the eyes of President Trump’s understanding, that he will know the time of divine intervention. He will know how to implement divine intervention. And you will surround him, Father, with none of this deep-state trash, none of this RINO trash. You surround him, people that you pick, with your own mighty hand. In the name of Jesus.”10.25.22
A prayer at a “ReAwaken America” event in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, a few days ago, at which Michael Flynn appeared, captured the sensibilities of this moment: “Father God, we come to you in the name of Jesus. We’re asking you to open the eyes of President Trump’s understanding, that he will know the time of divine intervention. He will know how to implement divine intervention. And you will surround him, Father, with none of this deep-state trash, none of this RINO trash. You surround him, people that you pick, with your own mighty hand. In the name of Jesus.”10.25.22
North Carolina Policy Watch: North Carolina Republican leaders embrace Christian nationalism
Among those cheering Graves on that morning were Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson and Michael Whatley, chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party. Because while the gathering took place in a chapel before the cross, it was in fact a GOP political rally and recruiting drive.
Working closely with the state GOP, its candidates and top elected officials, The American Renewal Project has held these events across North Carolina for years. This election season, the group brought Republican candidates ranging from county commissioner races to U.S. Senate candidate Ted Budd, to local churches for campaign speeches and a push to get conservative evangelical pastors on the ballot in every race, at every level.
10.26.22
Among those cheering Graves on that morning were Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson and Michael Whatley, chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party. Because while the gathering took place in a chapel before the cross, it was in fact a GOP political rally and recruiting drive.
Working closely with the state GOP, its candidates and top elected officials, The American Renewal Project has held these events across North Carolina for years. This election season, the group brought Republican candidates ranging from county commissioner races to U.S. Senate candidate Ted Budd, to local churches for campaign speeches and a push to get conservative evangelical pastors on the ballot in every race, at every level.
10.26.22
October 26, 2022:
The "god" of the Christian Nationalists isn't very bright. This "god" created a whole country that is "Christian" and he forgot to put the word "Christian" in any of the founding documents. Then this "god" also was rather unconcerned about that "separation of church and state" part and made that a cornerstone of Americas founding. Maybe "god" was sleeping that. We all know what a trickster Ben Franklin was.
Then there's slavery. A pretty big whoopse that this Christian Nationalist "god" let that go in it's foundation. LOTS of things were ignored by the Christian Nationalist "god" but now in order to fix those whoopses the American Christian Nationalists want to do God and everybody a favor and create a theocratic government. I guess Lindsey Graham could be the first "handmaid" if they go that route and create that "tale."
13 colonies belonging to the British Empire, whose king presided over an imperial church means that the original British citizens residing in those colonies were living under Christian rule. But they seemed to have not wanted it so they threw some tea in the water and broke away from any resemblance of any official religion. (but still provided protections for "religions". They even used muskets and bayonets to attack those British theocrats and called themselves "Patriots." (and, no, Mel Gibson was not there....and Debbie Gibson hadn't recorded her first album yet).
Betsy Ross' husband Gasden Ross created the "Dont Tread on Me Flag" cuz he just liked snakes and Betsy was busy making flags for friends in the colony. (some of this might be made up...but so is "Christian Nationalism.")
In 1956 the US adopted "In God We Trust" as the US motto. In 1955 Eisenhower had approved it to be on US coins. I guess they were trying to fix all those hundred years plus of not remembering to trust God...since the Christian Nationalist "god" overlooked it back in 1776.
Now if you ask a David Barton-Like Christian Nationalist, he will tell you that some of the guys who signed the Declaration of Independence and wrote the Constitution were Christian and they outranked all the non-christians and deists because David Barton-like people wrote books about it...and if someone took the time to write about it in a book...how could it be wrong??? Especially if you add the words "God" and "Jesus" to it. I think they knew that the Christian Nationalist "god" left stuff out but they will tell you clearly that "god" revealed it to them. Christian nationalists like it when people "tell them stuff about God in US history" cuz it "fills in the blanks" for them.
And turns out that the Christian Nationalist "god" was waiting until 2016 to begin establishing His Christian theocracy because the Christian Nationalist "god" was just too busy for the last 250 years or so and decided he needed to seal the deal "he" started way back then and was looking for someone who was morally bankrupt, unrepentant, orange, threw ketchup, hung out with both of the Corinthians, and married a porn star. Hence "Donald Trump," or as he called himself, Barron. ("Barron" would call newspapers to brag about "this wonderful guy named Donald Trump. " "Barron" was so real to Donald Trump that he named one of his sons after his real "fake" personality. )
Christian Nationalism is a fake gospel which, historically, has only one goal: To get power. For more information read about Germany in the 1930s.
The "god" of the Christian Nationalists isn't very bright. This "god" created a whole country that is "Christian" and he forgot to put the word "Christian" in any of the founding documents. Then this "god" also was rather unconcerned about that "separation of church and state" part and made that a cornerstone of Americas founding. Maybe "god" was sleeping that. We all know what a trickster Ben Franklin was.
Then there's slavery. A pretty big whoopse that this Christian Nationalist "god" let that go in it's foundation. LOTS of things were ignored by the Christian Nationalist "god" but now in order to fix those whoopses the American Christian Nationalists want to do God and everybody a favor and create a theocratic government. I guess Lindsey Graham could be the first "handmaid" if they go that route and create that "tale."
13 colonies belonging to the British Empire, whose king presided over an imperial church means that the original British citizens residing in those colonies were living under Christian rule. But they seemed to have not wanted it so they threw some tea in the water and broke away from any resemblance of any official religion. (but still provided protections for "religions". They even used muskets and bayonets to attack those British theocrats and called themselves "Patriots." (and, no, Mel Gibson was not there....and Debbie Gibson hadn't recorded her first album yet).
Betsy Ross' husband Gasden Ross created the "Dont Tread on Me Flag" cuz he just liked snakes and Betsy was busy making flags for friends in the colony. (some of this might be made up...but so is "Christian Nationalism.")
In 1956 the US adopted "In God We Trust" as the US motto. In 1955 Eisenhower had approved it to be on US coins. I guess they were trying to fix all those hundred years plus of not remembering to trust God...since the Christian Nationalist "god" overlooked it back in 1776.
Now if you ask a David Barton-Like Christian Nationalist, he will tell you that some of the guys who signed the Declaration of Independence and wrote the Constitution were Christian and they outranked all the non-christians and deists because David Barton-like people wrote books about it...and if someone took the time to write about it in a book...how could it be wrong??? Especially if you add the words "God" and "Jesus" to it. I think they knew that the Christian Nationalist "god" left stuff out but they will tell you clearly that "god" revealed it to them. Christian nationalists like it when people "tell them stuff about God in US history" cuz it "fills in the blanks" for them.
And turns out that the Christian Nationalist "god" was waiting until 2016 to begin establishing His Christian theocracy because the Christian Nationalist "god" was just too busy for the last 250 years or so and decided he needed to seal the deal "he" started way back then and was looking for someone who was morally bankrupt, unrepentant, orange, threw ketchup, hung out with both of the Corinthians, and married a porn star. Hence "Donald Trump," or as he called himself, Barron. ("Barron" would call newspapers to brag about "this wonderful guy named Donald Trump. " "Barron" was so real to Donald Trump that he named one of his sons after his real "fake" personality. )
Christian Nationalism is a fake gospel which, historically, has only one goal: To get power. For more information read about Germany in the 1930s.
Religion News: As Christian nationalism digs in, differing visions surface
As Christian nationalists get more specific, ideological and theological divisions have reemerged. 10.28.22 |
October 27, 2022: Politico: Opinion | How Christian Nationalism Is Taking Root Across the World The far right is currently ruling in: Hungary with Viktor Orbán, who has come out against race mixing in Europe and was a speaker at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Texas this summer; Poland with the Christian nationalist party, Law and Justice, which opposes gay marriage, abortion and immigration; India, the most populous representative democracy in the world, with Narendra Modi, who has pursued Hindu-nationalist policies against religious minorities; Turkey with the imposition of Islamic nationalism and the ethnic cleansing against Kurds by Recep Tayyip Erdoğan; Brazil with Jair Bolsonaro, who has denounced “homosexual fundamentalists,” called indigenous peoples “parasites” and advanced agribusiness by promoting the burning of the Amazon basin; and more recently, Italy with Giorgia Meloni, heir to Mussolini’s fascist legacy, the new prime minister after her right-wing coalition achieved a majority in Parliament.
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Oct 28, 2022: Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty: New research survey shows Americans don’t like Christian nationalism, do support the separation of church and state
A new Pew Research Center survey “explor(ing) Americans’ attitudes about the role of religion in public life” reveals that only 5% of Americans hold a favorable view of Christian nationalism, while just over half remain unaware of it altogether, despite growing public attention to the term over the course of this year. The survey, conducted in September, asked thousands of respondents who had heard of it to describe in their own words what it means to them:
Many describe “Christian nationalism” in terms of Christian dominance in society, while others associate the concept with racism, authoritarianism, bigotry and exclusion. A smaller portion of Americans describe it as the positive influence of faith and morals in society.
A new Pew Research Center survey “explor(ing) Americans’ attitudes about the role of religion in public life” reveals that only 5% of Americans hold a favorable view of Christian nationalism, while just over half remain unaware of it altogether, despite growing public attention to the term over the course of this year. The survey, conducted in September, asked thousands of respondents who had heard of it to describe in their own words what it means to them:
Many describe “Christian nationalism” in terms of Christian dominance in society, while others associate the concept with racism, authoritarianism, bigotry and exclusion. A smaller portion of Americans describe it as the positive influence of faith and morals in society.
October 29, 2022:
Julie Green, of Julie Green Ministries, has received another “prophetic word” from God. God says Herschel Walker will win, MAGA candidates will win every place elections were “stolen” in 2020, and Biden will be replaced. So sayeth the Lord. (Her video has 151,000 views since last night).
Yahoo News: Doug Mastriano says he's not extreme. So why do many say he is?
Get Religion: New stories on New Apostolic Reformation, Sean Feucht keep assuming a right-wing takeover
New Republic: The Right-Wing Christian Sect Plotting a Political Takeover
Julie Green, of Julie Green Ministries, has received another “prophetic word” from God. God says Herschel Walker will win, MAGA candidates will win every place elections were “stolen” in 2020, and Biden will be replaced. So sayeth the Lord. (Her video has 151,000 views since last night).
Yahoo News: Doug Mastriano says he's not extreme. So why do many say he is?
Get Religion: New stories on New Apostolic Reformation, Sean Feucht keep assuming a right-wing takeover
New Republic: The Right-Wing Christian Sect Plotting a Political Takeover
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Dallas Observer: As Christian Nationalism Rises, Progressive Pastors in North Texas Fight to Keep the Faith
But is the long game inherently flawed because, by nature, it takes a while? The pastors themselves grapple with that question, even as they bristle at the notion that progressive Christians and conservative Christians are locked in a bitter conflict: The point of faith and the church is to offer guidance and love, they say, not gain political territory. Still, they expressed some degree of concern that the public at large is losing faith in Christianity because of its ties to conservatism. The data backs them up: Recent Pew Research Center numbers show Christians made up 90% of the U.S. population 50 years ago. Now, that figure is down to roughly 64%.10.5.22
But is the long game inherently flawed because, by nature, it takes a while? The pastors themselves grapple with that question, even as they bristle at the notion that progressive Christians and conservative Christians are locked in a bitter conflict: The point of faith and the church is to offer guidance and love, they say, not gain political territory. Still, they expressed some degree of concern that the public at large is losing faith in Christianity because of its ties to conservatism. The data backs them up: Recent Pew Research Center numbers show Christians made up 90% of the U.S. population 50 years ago. Now, that figure is down to roughly 64%.10.5.22
Pennsylvania Capitol Star: Wisconsin group launches effort to counter Christian nationalism in state politics 10.2.22
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.
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.
""These myths — America is a Christian nation, America is a chosen nation — in turn, create on-ramps into more overt forms of Christian nationalism. Perry and Gorski found that when Christian nationalism fuses with white racial identity, it results in “the use of ‘us versus them’ language to make a claim about a country that once was ‘ours,’ that ‘we’re trying to take back,’ that ‘rightfully belongs to people like us.’” This kind of white Christian nationalist logic leads many of our siblings in Christ to pine for a version of our nation’s past that is out of step with the reality of religious pluralism that existed within our history and our increasingly pluralistic future. And as we saw in Charlottesville in 2015 and the U.S. Capitol in 2021, white Christian nationalism can be especially effective in motivating acts of radical violence. "
-Adam Russell Taylor
-Adam Russell Taylor
september
“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
-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
Media Matters: Ben Shapiro defends Christian nationalism 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
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
September 29, 2022: 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.
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.
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
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
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
"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." --Keith Giles; The Dangers of Christian Nationalism; 9.19.22
Franklin Graham Files
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
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
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
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
Sept 1, 2022: Yahoo: Doug Mastriano says he's not extreme. So why do many say he is?
“The left are just nasty, terrible people. They really are,” he told Abby Abildness, a leader who connects Pennsylvania Republicans with a national network of Christian leaders who believe God speaks to them through dreams and visions and who have fused their apocalyptic vision of the spiritual world with their promotion of Trump....“If you think that you are engaged in a cosmic struggle between the forces of good and evil, and you think that the lines between good and evil run between people rather than through people, and you are quite sure that you're on the side of the good and all of your enemies are on the side of evil, and this is a struggle over the very existence of America or Christianity, wouldn't you be willing to do anything and everything if you really, really believe that sincerely and with all your heart?” Philip Gorski, a historical sociologist at Yale University, said in an interview...In 2018, he said same-sex marriage should “absolutely not” be legal. “I’m for traditional marriage,” he said. “It’s been like that for 6,000 years. It was the first institution founded by God in Genesis and it needs to stay that way.”
He also said in the same interview that Islam is not “compatible” with the U.S. Constitution.
“The Constitution was founded on Judeo-Christian ideas, and it’s only compatible with that worldview,” he told a talk radio interviewer. “Guess what? Not all religions are created equal.”
Mastriano thinks abortion should be banned “from conception” and does not support any exceptions to that — for rape, incest or if the life of the mother is in danger.
“The left are just nasty, terrible people. They really are,” he told Abby Abildness, a leader who connects Pennsylvania Republicans with a national network of Christian leaders who believe God speaks to them through dreams and visions and who have fused their apocalyptic vision of the spiritual world with their promotion of Trump....“If you think that you are engaged in a cosmic struggle between the forces of good and evil, and you think that the lines between good and evil run between people rather than through people, and you are quite sure that you're on the side of the good and all of your enemies are on the side of evil, and this is a struggle over the very existence of America or Christianity, wouldn't you be willing to do anything and everything if you really, really believe that sincerely and with all your heart?” Philip Gorski, a historical sociologist at Yale University, said in an interview...In 2018, he said same-sex marriage should “absolutely not” be legal. “I’m for traditional marriage,” he said. “It’s been like that for 6,000 years. It was the first institution founded by God in Genesis and it needs to stay that way.”
He also said in the same interview that Islam is not “compatible” with the U.S. Constitution.
“The Constitution was founded on Judeo-Christian ideas, and it’s only compatible with that worldview,” he told a talk radio interviewer. “Guess what? Not all religions are created equal.”
Mastriano thinks abortion should be banned “from conception” and does not support any exceptions to that — for rape, incest or if the life of the mother is in danger.
“A revival is coming. We need to do a much better job as evangelists. Evangelists for Jesus, yes, but also in the public sphere as evangelists for liberty, for our values.”
-Ted Cruz; Texas Faith, Family, and Freedom Forum; Sept 2022
-Ted Cruz; Texas Faith, Family, and Freedom Forum; Sept 2022
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Sept 14, 2022:
Citing a Sept. 14 Denver Post article titled "Lauren Boebert is part of a dangerous religious movement that threatens democracy," Hunt noted that the publication stated that Boebert has pursued a "pattern of pushing for a religious takeover of America, spreading falsehoods about the 2020 presidential election and warning of an impending judgment day," which the article cites "political and social experts" to say "amounts to Christian nationalism." "At their core, Christian nationalists believe that America holds a unique and divinely ordained purpose," the article stated. "Christian nationalists also hold a strong sense of moral traditionalism, express comfort with authoritarian control … and embrace strong ethno-racial boundaries." Hunt also stated that the article claims Christian nationalism is "infiltrating virtually every level of American government and its judiciary" and a "dog whistle for violence." |
Sept 12, 2022: Tampa Bay Times: What message is DeSantis sending with religious ‘full armor of God’ rhetoric?“It’s really hard to know what’s true to their personal beliefs versus what’s true to their desire to get reelected,” Shortle said.
But she said she believes many politicians are starting to realize the power of appealing to the Christian nationalist movement. “I think politicians and leaders who are now legitimizing these ideas (through their rhetoric) is what gives the movement power,” Shortle said, which is why she says she might not label the movement fringe anymore. |
august
August 19, 2022:
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?
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?
Aug 16, 2022: Only Sky: South Dakota’s new social studies standards promote Christian nationalism
South Dakota’s Gov. Kristi Noem is on the verge of instituting social studies standards for public schools that promotes Christian nationalism without ever saying it outright. The standards treat Jesus as a real-life historical figure, say the Founding Fathers believed in “an eternal God” who created a standard of justice in nature, and downplay the nation’s embrace of slavery and systemic racism.
Noem announced the new standards on Monday, claiming they had no “political agendas” and focused more on Native American history, unlike a controversial draft of the standards released last year. But the political agenda is loud and clear. You don’t even have to read between the lines.
South Dakota’s Gov. Kristi Noem is on the verge of instituting social studies standards for public schools that promotes Christian nationalism without ever saying it outright. The standards treat Jesus as a real-life historical figure, say the Founding Fathers believed in “an eternal God” who created a standard of justice in nature, and downplay the nation’s embrace of slavery and systemic racism.
Noem announced the new standards on Monday, claiming they had no “political agendas” and focused more on Native American history, unlike a controversial draft of the standards released last year. But the political agenda is loud and clear. You don’t even have to read between the lines.
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 8.14.22
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 8.14.22
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.
August 10, 2022:
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
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
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 14, 2022:
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
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
August 6, 2022:
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
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
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: WFAE: What the Christian nationalist movement means for North Carolina and the nation
As a growing number of voters and politicians appear to be blending their faith with anti-Covid restrictions, gun rights and election lies, experts fear some extremist values are going mainstream by the way of Christian nationalism.
As a growing number of voters and politicians appear to be blending their faith with anti-Covid restrictions, gun rights and election lies, experts fear some extremist values are going mainstream by the way of Christian nationalism.
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
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.
july
"Unlike Marjorie Taylor Greene, I've studied the Scriptures & devoted myself to serving the Church. Christian nationalism is a racist ideology incompatible with Christianity. Jesus was for all the world, not one nation. Beware false teachers like Greene. She dances with the devil. Christian nationalism isn't just a threat to democracy. It is also a threat to an understanding of Christianity that places Jesus and his teachings first. Christian nationalism is a virus. Jesus is the vaccine."
- Reverend Chuck Currie (Oregon; July 2022)
- Reverend Chuck Currie (Oregon; July 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.
Author Helgard Müller said that he believes there are two Christs, with Jesus being the son of God who was betrayed by Judas, and Trump being the son of man who was “betrayed by Mike Pence.”
Book Description: During the presidency of President Donald Trump, it became evident to me that the prophecies about the Son of Man, as predicted by Jesus in the Bible were, to a significant extent, fulfilled at the hands of Mr Trump. The Bible speaks about two different Christs-or Messiahs. Jesus, the Son of God is the one Christ, whereas the Son of Man is the other. Jesus always referred to the Son of Man in the third person. The greatest distinction or significance between the Son of Man and the Son of God (the Lamb) is their respective positions at the throne of God. There are numerous differences between the Son of God and the Son of Man, but overall, people read these scriptures and they do not realize that the Son of God (the Lamb) stands in front of the throne of God, whereas the Son of Man, is positioned on the right hand of God. Jesus spoke about two different killings in the four gospels of the New Testament. People read these scriptures and are unaware that Jesus (the Son of God) predicted his own killing in the first person, as opposed to the several prophecies that He made in respects to the Son of Man who will be crucified. The New Testament speaks about "two Kings;" Jesus, the Son of God, is the "King of the Jews," whereas the Son of Man is the "King of Kings" who will be a world-ruler, and He will rule all the nations (the tribes) of the earth with a rod of iron. This book will explain in depth how "Donald John Trump's" full name literally means: "The Ruler of the World, graced by Yahweh (the LORD) and a descendant of a Drummer." Upon reading this book, the reader will be captivated when they realize how President Donald John Trump fulfilled most of the prophecies as the Son of Man. It speaks about End Time Prophecies and Biblical revelations regarding "President Donald J. Trump, the Son of Man. The Christ."
Book Description: During the presidency of President Donald Trump, it became evident to me that the prophecies about the Son of Man, as predicted by Jesus in the Bible were, to a significant extent, fulfilled at the hands of Mr Trump. The Bible speaks about two different Christs-or Messiahs. Jesus, the Son of God is the one Christ, whereas the Son of Man is the other. Jesus always referred to the Son of Man in the third person. The greatest distinction or significance between the Son of Man and the Son of God (the Lamb) is their respective positions at the throne of God. There are numerous differences between the Son of God and the Son of Man, but overall, people read these scriptures and they do not realize that the Son of God (the Lamb) stands in front of the throne of God, whereas the Son of Man, is positioned on the right hand of God. Jesus spoke about two different killings in the four gospels of the New Testament. People read these scriptures and are unaware that Jesus (the Son of God) predicted his own killing in the first person, as opposed to the several prophecies that He made in respects to the Son of Man who will be crucified. The New Testament speaks about "two Kings;" Jesus, the Son of God, is the "King of the Jews," whereas the Son of Man is the "King of Kings" who will be a world-ruler, and He will rule all the nations (the tribes) of the earth with a rod of iron. This book will explain in depth how "Donald John Trump's" full name literally means: "The Ruler of the World, graced by Yahweh (the LORD) and a descendant of a Drummer." Upon reading this book, the reader will be captivated when they realize how President Donald John Trump fulfilled most of the prophecies as the Son of Man. It speaks about End Time Prophecies and Biblical revelations regarding "President Donald J. Trump, the Son of Man. The Christ."
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
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 7.13.22
april
April 29, 2022:
“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
“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
April 29, 2022: 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
April 27, 2022:
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
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
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 us 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 us 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.
April 7, 2022:
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
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
April 3, 2022: 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
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
Apr 2, 2022
march
Mar 30, 2022:
“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 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
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.
february 2022
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.
Nathaniel Manderson; Salon; February 20, 2022
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.
Nathaniel Manderson; Salon; February 20, 2022
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:
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.
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.
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.
january 2022
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.
“The ethic of Jesus has gotten in the way of successfully prosecuting the culture wars against the left. If the ethic of Jesus encourages sensibilities that might cause people in politics to act a little less brutally, a bit more civilly, with a touch more grace? Then it needs to go. Decency is for suckers.”
--Peter Wehner; The Atlantic
--Peter Wehner; The Atlantic
"“Why are we here? The Bible, the book that built America, says that those who hate God love death.”
--Kirk Cameron
--Kirk Cameron
"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."
Samuel L. Perry; University of Oklahoma
Samuel L. Perry; University of Oklahoma
“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."
Jack Jenkins; Religion News Service
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."
Jack Jenkins; Religion News Service
"In a recent study, my co-authors and I tested how Americans who affirm Christian nationalist ideology scored on a quiz of scientific facts. Americans scoring higher on Christian nationalism didn’t score lower on science questions that asked about things like lasers, genes, molecules or viruses. But Christian nationalism was the strongest predictor that they would score lower on questions about religiously contested scientific facts such as the Big Bang or natural selection.
Christian nationalism....didn’t necessarily coincide with ignorance. Rather, it reflected a powerful dogmatism that rejected any facts that were inconsistent with cherished narratives.
Samuel L Perry; Religion News Service
Christian nationalism....didn’t necessarily coincide with ignorance. Rather, it reflected a powerful dogmatism that rejected any facts that were inconsistent with cherished narratives.
Samuel L Perry; Religion News Service
Jan 28, 2022:
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
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
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.
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.”
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.”
-Jack Jenkins; Religion News Service -Jan 26, 2022
-Jack Jenkins; Religion News Service -Jan 26, 2022
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.
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.
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: Bill Tammeus (Bills Faith Matters Blog):
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. Anyone watching the rioting mobs on TV could see lots of signs mentioning Jesus plus various Christian banners, flags and crosses. But it has taken time to piece together the central role that white Christian nationalism played in the effort to overturn the election of Joe Biden and steal it for Donald Trump.
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. Anyone watching the rioting mobs on TV could see lots of signs mentioning Jesus plus various Christian banners, flags and crosses. But it has taken time to piece together the central role that white Christian nationalism played in the effort to overturn the election of Joe Biden and steal it for Donald Trump.
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
