Understanding Christian Nationalism and Why It’s Not Christianity

Understanding Christian Nationalism and Why It’s Not Christianity

Introduction

Christian nationalism is a political ideology that seeks to merge Christianity with national identity. This perspective advocates that the nation’s laws and government should be based on Christian values and that their nation (eg the United States of America) is a fundamentally Christian nation. However, Christian nationalism diverges significantly from true Christianity, focusing on political power and national supremacy rather than the teachings and example of Jesus Christ.

Defining Christian Nationalism

Christian nationalism asserts that their nation has been, and should continue to be, a Christian nation. This ideology promotes the belief that Christianity should play the central role in public life and government, often conflating national identity with religious identity. Key tenets include:

• The belief is that the nation’s identity is inherently tied to Christianity.
• Advocacy for Christian laws and policies and forced upon others.
• The idea that their nation is divinely chosen and favoured by God.

Why Christian Nationalism Is Not Christianity

1. Focus on Political Power Over Spiritual Integrity
   Christian nationalism prioritizes political influence and control, often at the expense of core Christian values such as humility, service, and love for all people. Jesus taught that His kingdom is not of this world and emphasized spiritual transformation over political dominion.
   • Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” John 18:36
     
2. Exclusionary Practices
   Christian nationalism often excludes or marginalizes those who do not conform to its specific religious, cultural or even racial ideals. This is contrary to the inclusive message of Jesus, who reached out to the marginalized and commanded His followers to love their neighbours.
   • And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself. Matthew 22:39
     
3. Idolatry of Nation
   Elevating the nation to a divine status can lead to idolatry, where national symbols and ideals are revered more than God. Christianity teaches that God alone is to be worshipped and followed, and any form of idolatry is condemned.
   • “You shall have no other gods before me.” Exodus 30:3
     
4. Misrepresentation of Jesus’ Teachings
   The teachings of Jesus emphasize love, mercy, and justice. Christian nationalism, however, can lead to an aggressive and militant stance that contradicts Jesus’ call to be peacemakers and to love one’s enemies.
   • “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Mat 5:9
   • “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” Mat 5:44

Biblical Perspective

The Bible calls for believers to live as citizens of heaven (“But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ,” Philippians 3:20) and to be ambassadors for Christ (“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20), focusing on spreading the gospel and serving others. Jesus’ ministry was characterized by humility, compassion, and sacrificial love, not by seeking political power.

Conclusion

Christian nationalism distorts the message of Christianity by merging it with a nationalistic agenda. True Christianity is not about exerting political control or enforcing religious conformity but about following Jesus’ teachings and embodying His love and grace. Christians are called to be light in the world, promoting justice, peace, and compassion, without compromising the core values of their faith for the sake of national identity or political gain.