Christian nationalism has been a contentious and increasingly prominent topic in contemporary American discourse. In a recent panel discussion on the Heretic Happy Hour podcast, we brought together activists Lisa Sharon Harper and Shane Claiborne to explore this phenomenon, its implications, and its potential threats to both democracy and authentic Christian faith. The discussion is rich with insights, historical perspectives, and passionate critiques, making it a valuable resource for understanding the complex interplay between Christianity and nationalism in the United States.
Understanding Christian Nationalism
At its core, Christian Nationalism is about the unholy fusion of Christian identity with national identity. It is the belief that the United States is, ever was, or should be, a Christian nation and that its policies and laws should reflect Christian values. This belief is not just about personal faith influencing public policy but about the idea that American identity itself is inherently Christian. As my business partner and fellow Patheos blogger Keith Giles notes, this concept is gaining traction, with many Americans believing that the Bible should have significant influence over U.S. laws, even to the extent that it should override the will of the people in certain situations.
Historical Roots and Modern Manifestations
During the episode, Harper provides an historical lens to understand Christian nationalism. She explains how the ideology of manifest destiny—a belief that Americans were divinely ordained to expand and dominate—has deeply influenced American Christianity. This belief system erroneously equates America with the biblical Promised Land and Americans with God’s chosen people. This conflation has been subtly perpetuated in churches for decades, from the presence of American flags in sanctuaries to the narratives of a predominantly white, English-speaking, and American Jesus in Christian education.
Claiborne further critiques this by highlighting how Christian nationalism distorts the teachings of Jesus. He argues that the true essence of Christianity, as exemplified by Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, is about humility, peace, and compassion for the marginalized—values starkly opposed to the aggressive, nationalistic fervor seen in Christian nationalism. Claiborne points out the idolatrous nature of this ideology, where nationalism becomes a false god, replacing the teachings of Christ with the worship of power and militarism.
The Theological and Democratic Threat
Both Harper and Claiborne emphasize that Christian nationalism poses a dual threat: it undermines authentic Christian faith and endangers democratic principles. Harper calls it a heresy that creates an idol out of the nation, while Claiborne warns that it fundamentally contradicts the teachings of Jesus. The Beatitudes, for example, bless the meek, the merciful, and the peacemakers—values that are often antithetical to the nationalistic pride and militarism promoted by Christian nationalists.
Moreover, Christian nationalism threatens democracy by advocating for a theocratic form of government where religious beliefs dictate public policy. This goes against the pluralistic foundation of American democracy, where freedom of religion means freedom for all religions, not just Christianity. Harper and Claiborne argue that this blending of church and state creates an exclusionary environment that marginalizes non-Christians and dissenting Christians alike.
Reclaiming Authentic Christianity
In response to the rise of Christian nationalism, this episode of the podcast participants advocate for a return to the core teachings of Jesus. Claiborne emphasizes the need to re-center Jesus in Christian life and practice, focusing on his messages of love, peace, and justice. This involves a critical examination of how Christian values are being interpreted and implemented in public life.
Harper adds that reclaiming authentic Christianity requires recognizing and confronting the historical and ongoing injustices perpetuated by Christian nationalism. This includes acknowledging the ways in which white supremacy and patriarchy have shaped both American society and Christian theology. By doing so, Christians can begin to dismantle the harmful ideologies that underpin Christian nationalism and work towards a more inclusive and just expression of their faith.
Changing the Narrative
A significant part of combating Christian Nationalism involves changing the narrative. Claiborne and Harper highlight the importance of elevating voices that challenge the status quo and offer alternative perspectives on Christianity and national identity. This is a key goal of their work with Red Letter Christians, a movement that seeks to promote a Christianity focused on the New Testament teachings of Jesus, which emphasize social justice, peace, and compassion.
By centering these voices and stories, this organization aims to shift the public perception of Christianity away from the toxic, nationalistic version that currently dominates much of the political and cultural landscape. This involves not only theological reformation but also practical action towards justice and reconciliation in society.
Conclusion
By critically examining its historical roots, theological distortions, and democratic threats, Keith and I, along with our esteemed panelists, provide a comprehensive takedown of Christian Nationalism. Further, we call for a reclamation of authentic Christianity centered on the teachings of Jesus, emphasizing love, peace, and justice. Through changing the narrative and elevating voices that challenge the dominant paradigms, there is hope for a more inclusive and just expression of Christian faith in America, though currently, hope is waning. Time will tell if our hope is in vain.
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