What defines Christian Nationalism?

Definition and Overview

Christian Nationalism is often described as a movement or perspective that emphasizes the belief that a nation’s identity and governance should reflect Christian values and heritage. It typically involves the conviction that God has specially favored certain national or political arrangements rooted in Christianity. This understanding can vary widely, but its central focus is the integration of national identity with distinct Christian principles and the desire for governmental structures to uphold these principles.

Biblical Foundations of Nations

Scripture highlights that God establishes and ordains nations. In Acts 17:26, it is stated, “From one man He made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and He determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands.” This reveals that human governments and national boundaries exist under God’s sovereignty. Nations serve functions such as maintaining order (Romans 13:1–4) and providing frameworks wherein people may seek after God.

The Role of Governments and Righteousness

According to Proverbs 14:34, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.” Many proponents of Christian Nationalism emphasize that moral ideals grounded in Scripture should guide a nation’s laws and cultural values. They cite passages asserting that just governance aligns with God’s righteousness (Psalm 33:12: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD…”). Within such a view, the infusion of biblical ethics into national policies is seen as essential to a healthy society.

Historical Context and Diverging Views

In historical Israel, the union of nationhood with faith formed part of the theocratic system where governance and religious observance were inseparable (Deuteronomy 17:14–20). Christian Nationalists sometimes reference this precedent to argue that a modern state is likewise intended to honor God in its public institutions and laws.

On the other hand, there are contrasting perspectives that highlight the New Testament’s emphasis on a transnational “kingdom of God.” Believers are called “a chosen people, a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), suggesting that their ultimate allegiance is to God’s kingdom rather than any earthly one. These differing interpretations can yield dynamic views on how Christians should engage with civic affairs.

Concerns and Critiques

Critics of Christian Nationalism often point out potential conflations of spiritual identity with national or ethnic identity. They reference Jesus’ declarations that His kingdom is “not of this world” (John 18:36). They argue that prioritizing national affiliation above the global unity of believers may contradict the universality of Christ’s message (Galatians 3:28). Additionally, concerns include whether Christian Nationalism’s emphasis on political platforms may overshadow the gospel’s central mission of personal transformation and salvation in Christ.

Relationship to Evangelism and Mission

Christian Nationalism can stimulate political advocacy for moral causes, such as the protection of life and religious freedoms. However, biblical missions extend well beyond one nation’s boundaries, carrying the Great Commission to “make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Even as one contemplates how to shape laws or cultural norms, the believer’s first calling is to spread the message of Christ’s resurrection and salvation.

Balancing National Responsibilities and Kingdom Citizenship

Romans 13:1–7 advises believers to respect governing authorities, recognizing them as instruments of God. However, when national fidelity conflicts with clear biblical mandates (Acts 5:29: “We must obey God rather than men”), loyalty to God takes precedence. Christian Nationalism in its various forms wrestles with this tension: seeking to honor one’s government and cultural heritage yet remaining faithful to Scriptural truths and actively expressing the love of Christ to all.

Modern Implications

• Some see Christian Nationalism as a call to preserve Christian ethical teachings in legislation and societal norms, believing that a nation thrives when it upholds Judeo-Christian morals.

• Others worry that too close an identification of Christianity with any single political identity dilutes the faith’s universal scope and might alienate those not already within that cultural framework.

• Sociologically, the concept raises questions about how Christians express compassion and justice for marginalized groups, ensuring that nationalistic fervor does not overshadow the biblical command to love neighbor as oneself (Mark 12:31).

Conclusion

Christian Nationalism is defined by the pursuit of coupling national identity with Christian principles, under the belief that moral righteousness elevates society. Supporters cite Old Testament precedents and passages emphasizing God’s sovereignty over nations, while critics counter with New Testament teachings that define believers primarily as citizens of a heavenly kingdom. Historical and modern expressions vary, but the key challenge lies in maintaining fidelity to gospel foundations—love, mercy, truth, and faithfulness—while engaging the public sphere with integrity and humility.