The Hidden Influence of Christian Nationalism

Christian nationalism is a deep-rooted belief in the fusion of a particular expression of Christianity with American civic life. It advocates for a Christian framework in the United States and idealizes the belief that the nation should be guided by conservative evangelical Protestantism. This belief system is marked by a strong moral traditionalism, comfort with authoritarian social control, a desire for strict boundaries along ethno-racial lines, and a populist impulse. While Christian nationalism has long been part of American history, its recent iterations emerged in the 1970s with the rise of the religious and Christian right. The cultural and social changes in the 1960s contributed to its development, as conservative white Christians sought to preserve their values and felt threatened by secularism. However, the political success of the Christian right did not necessarily translate into increased religious affiliations, and it instead led to a backlash effect. Many Americans, including those who were once part of conservative Christian communities, began to associate all religion with the politics and uncompromising style of the Christian right, leading them to leave organized religion altogether. Christian nationalism is not a binary concept, but rather exists along a spectrum, with ambassadors fully supporting the idea of a Christian nation and rejectors completely opposing it. Resisters and accommodators fall along this spectrum, with the former being uncomfortable with Christian nationalism but not wholly opposed, and the latter leaning towards accepting it with some reservations. Understanding and addressing Christian nationalism is crucial for the future of American democracy and Christianity, as it poses a threat to both. The next episodes of the podcast will explore how Christian nationalism undermines American democracy, its harmful impact on the Christian church, and potential ways to move forward.