Week 3: Christianity Hijacked: The Theological Cost of Nationalism

This Week’s Readings

• The Psychology of Christian Nationalism - Chapter 2

• How to End Christian Nationalism - Introduction + Chapter 5-6

Hello, Welcome to Week 3 of August's Resistance Book Club! 

This month, we will be focusing on Christian Nationalism. It's imperative to understand this ideology, the main driver in today's political climate. As Christians, it'll be our job to dismantle this harmful ideology. In September, we will explore how to be more of an activist. In October, we will study propaganda. In November, we will discuss how our parenting style could influence how we vote, and in December, we will discuss abortion. So be sure to subscribe to the Resistance Book Club.

What is Christianity and Christian Nationalism?

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, Christianity is "the religion derived from Jesus Christ, based on the Bible as sacred scripture, and professed by Eastern, Roman Catholic, and Protestant bodies." To me, Christianity has always been about loving they neighbor and trying to do the best for society and for everyone overall. However, lurking in the background of my far-right upbringing was a more sinister ideology I was being taught, that has taken ahold of the Republican party, Christian Nationalism. Although this ideology has been in America for awhile, it has made a massive comeback because of Trump's presidency. I had never fully subscribed to this movement, however, growing up in this atmosphere I am extremely familiar with it.

Christian Nationalism is a weaponization of the Bible to essentially control others. I grew up being told to never vote Democratic. As a far-right Republican child you are essentially moded to act and behave in only the way that is acceptable to your parents. The Bible says, "..., therefore you can't be gay." This ideology essentially upholds white supremacy, patriarchy, and a government run by religious rule. It's a very narrow minded view of how others should live their life, and sadly they have some extreme goals that they'll do everything in their power to achieve. It's either their way or the highway, and you must conform. They are happy as a clam over in their far-right media echo chamber unaware of the real damage they're doing to people's lives, fully believing they're saving others through distorted Biblical teachings, however, only holding up white patriarchal culture.

Evangelicalism, Vulnerable to Nationalism Ideology

Christians within the Christian community are at greater risk of nationalism ideology due to the nature of how pastoral figures promote "God and Country" and the "true faith". Many of the tactics used to draw in crowds to churches aren't uncommon cult tactics: love-bombing, emotional manipulation through service, peer pressure, etc. Over time these Conservative beliefs are morphed with far-right political activism, and Christian Nationalist merge this into identity believing they are one in the same; to be a "true" Christian, one must be Conservative. This sense of patriotism and nationalism clouds the minds of conservative Christians. 

Taking On Christian Nationalism Close to Home

In order to defeat Christian Nationalism, it's going to require ordinary people like you and I, taking a stand and having hard conversations with those around us. Pastors and Priests need to be speaking directly from the pulpit to their congregation regarding Christian Nationalism and the weaponization of this ideology. Flags also need to be removed from sanctuaries. As believers in Christ our faith is not dictated by our nation or ethnicity. God's love extends to everyone no matter where they reside or who they are. His love is not exclusionary. 

Organizing for Change

The biggest impact in combating Christian Nationalism ideology is at the local level. Through local organizing efforts, systemic change can occur, and those involved can truly decide how best to spend their energy to make the greatest impact for their community. There's no one-size-fits-all approach. Community organizing along with advocacy work are both needed to make any lasting change.

Key Takeaways

• Start where you are locally in combating Christian Nationalism

• Listen to the most impacted by white supremacy and Christian Nationalism

• Every conversation has the impact for change

Next Week's Readings: How Fear and Power Keep Christian Nationalism Alive

• The Psychology of Christian Nationalism - Conclusion

• How to End Christian Nationalism - Chapter 7-8 + Conclusion

Reflections to Consider While Reading:

What one action could you commit to this month-whether it's organizing, educating, voting, or having a hard conversation?

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