What Does the Bible Say About Christian Nationalism?

Understanding Christian Nationalism

Christian nationalism refers to the ideological belief that a nation’s laws, government, and cultural identity should be founded upon Christian principles. This worldview posits that the nation in question holds a unique, divinely ordained position, imbuing its political and social frameworks with religious significance. The concept transcends mere personal faith, merging it with national identity to create a vision where the state is an extension of religious doctrine.

The roots of Christian nationalism can be traced back to various historical contexts, where societies have merged religious conviction with nationalistic fervor. For instance, the concept finds parallels in the Byzantine Empire’s adoption of Christianity as a state religion, or more modern examples like the “Christian right” in the United States, which seeks to influence policy based on evangelical Christian values. Similar movements exist in other countries where political agendas are interwoven with religious beliefs, reflecting a global phenomenon.

Proponents of Christian nationalism often believe that aligning a nation with Christian values will steer societal norms and legislative decisions in a moral direction, thereby securing divine favor. The rationales behind this alignment are multifaceted, driven by a desire for a moral compass in governance, a belief in the historical and cultural significance of Christianity within the nation, and an adherence to perceived traditional values that they believe benefit civilization.

Recent years have seen a surge in the visibility and influence of Christian nationalist movements. This growth is attributed to various factors, including increasing global cultural and religious pluralism, which some groups view as threatening to their traditional way of life. The rise of Christian nationalism has sparked significant controversy, with critics arguing that it undermines democratic principles by eroding the separation of church and state, and promoting exclusionary or discriminatory policies.

While Christian nationalism continues to evolve and shape political landscapes, understanding its foundations and implications is crucial for comprehending its impact on contemporary society.

Biblical Perspective on Nationalism

The Bible offers a nuanced perspective on the relationship between faith and national identity, often emphasizing the importance of separating spiritual devotion from national allegiance. One key passage that addresses this distinction is found in Matthew 22:21, where Jesus states, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” This declaration underscores the differentiation between civic duties and religious obligations, suggesting that while believers should fulfill their responsibilities as citizens, their ultimate devotion belongs to God.

Throughout the New Testament, early Christians navigated their faith under various secular governments, highlighting a separation of church and state. For example, in Romans 13:1-7, the apostle Paul instructs believers to submit to governing authorities, recognizing them as established by God for maintaining order and justice. This passage indicates that although Christians are to respect and obey governmental structures, their primary allegiance remains with God’s kingdom.

The Bible also presents a universal approach to salvation that transcends ethnic and national boundaries. Notably, the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 calls for making disciples of all nations, emphasizing a global mission rather than a nationalistic one. This directive illustrates God’s inclusive salvation plan, which extends to people of every nation, tribe, and tongue, without showing favoritism.

Additionally, in Galatians 3:28, Paul articulates the principle of equality among believers, stating, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” This passage further reinforces the concept of a unified, multinational community of faith where earthly distinctions hold no bearing on one’s spiritual identity.

In examining the biblical perspective, it becomes evident that while the Bible acknowledges the necessity of functioning within secular governance, it consistently promotes a spiritual allegiance that transcends national and ethnic lines, advocating for a universal Christian community bound by faith rather than nationality.

Consequences of Blurring the Lines Between Faith and Nationality

The intertwining of Christian faith with national identity presents profound theological and ethical dilemmas. When national loyalty is conflated with devotion to Christ, there is a significant risk of idolatry. This condition elevates the nation to a status tantamount, or even superior, to that of God, a practice which stands in stark contradiction to biblical teachings. The Scripture is unambiguous regarding the exclusive sovereignty of God, and any attempt to place national boundaries on divine allegiance undermines the very essence of Christian faith.

There are numerous real-world instances where Christian nationalism has sown discord and promoted xenophobia, intolerance, or even violence against those of different national or religious backgrounds. One such case is found in the history of the Crusades, where the blend of militant nationalism and religious zealotry led to prolonged periods of violence and persecution. More contemporary examples include the rise of exclusionary policies that marginalize immigrants or those who do not conform to certain nationalistic ideals, often under the auspices of preserving a so-called ‘Christian’ nation. Such practices contravene the fundamental Christian teaching of neighborly love and compassion.

Personal and societal consequences of this fusion include a fragmented social fabric, where divisions are accentuated rather than healed. Communities mobilized by Christian nationalism may find themselves in a paradox, nurturing values of division and exclusion rather than the inclusivity and universal love championed by Christ. This can lead to increased social tension, discrimination, and even violence, distorting the transformative message of the Gospel.

To mitigate these adverse outcomes, a return to a biblical understanding of the relationship between faith and nationality is imperative. Christians are called to be ambassadors of God’s kingdom, a realm that is inclusive and transcends all earthly demarcations. The Apostle Paul reminds believers in Philippians 3:20 that “our citizenship is in heaven,” emphasizing that our primary allegiance is to the divine kingdom rather than any terrestrial nation.

By reorienting our focus toward this transcendent allegiance, we can realign our values and actions with those of the early church, which was inclusive and welcoming to all, irrespective of their national or ethnic origins. This theological recalibration fosters unity, peace, and mutual respect, fulfilling Christ’s commandment to love one another as He has loved us.