What Are the Dangers of Christian Nationalism?
Christian nationalism is a growing topic of discussion, especially in societies where faith and politics intersect. While patriotism—love for one’s country—is good, Christian nationalism goes beyond that. It blends national identity with Christianity in a way that can be dangerous both theologically and socially.
In this article, we will explore:
- What Christian nationalism is
- Why it is dangerous
- How it differs from biblical Christianity
- What the Bible teaches about faith and government
1. What Is Christian Nationalism?
Christian nationalism is the belief that a nation’s identity and destiny are directly tied to Christianity. It often includes the idea that:
- A specific country (e.g., the U.S., a European nation, etc.) is God’s chosen nation.
- The government should enforce Christian beliefs through laws.
- Citizenship and religious faith should be intertwined.
- Other religions are a threat to national identity.
While it may sound like a desire for a “Christian nation,” Christian nationalism often distorts the true message of Jesus.
2. The Dangers of Christian Nationalism
A. It Distorts the Gospel
Christian nationalism can shift the focus away from Christ and onto political power. Instead of preaching salvation through Jesus, it promotes loyalty to a nation as if that were part of faith.
- Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
- The Bible does not tie Christianity to any one nation—God’s kingdom is global!
B. It Replaces Biblical Christianity with Cultural Christianity
Many Christian nationalists confuse cultural traditions with biblical truth. For example, they may believe:
- Attending church = Being a true Christian
- Political affiliation = Spiritual righteousness
- National symbols (flags, anthems) = Christian identity
But the Bible teaches that faith in Jesus alone makes someone a Christian, not their nationality or political views.
C. It Creates Division Instead of Love
Christian nationalism often leads to:
- Discrimination against non-Christians.
- A sense of superiority over other nations or groups.
- A misunderstanding of religious freedom, where only Christianity is favored.
Jesus did not teach His followers to seek political power but to love others, serve humbly, and share the Gospel (Matthew 20:25-28).
D. It Promotes Idolatry of Nation Over God
The Bible warns against making anything—wealth, power, or nation—a false god.
- Exodus 20:3 – “You shall have no other gods before me.”
- Philippians 3:20 – “Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
While it is good to love one’s country, our ultimate allegiance is to God’s kingdom, not earthly nations.
E. It Distracts from the Church’s Mission
The Church is called to preach the Gospel, serve the poor, and make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). When Christianity is politicized, believers often:
- Focus more on winning elections than winning souls.
- See political opponents as enemies instead of people needing salvation.
- Lose sight of the Great Commission by becoming consumed with earthly power.
3. Christian Nationalism vs. Biblical Christianity
4. What Does the Bible Say About Faith and Government?
The Bible teaches how Christians should relate to government:
- Submit to authority – “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.” (Romans 13:1)
- Pray for leaders – “I urge that prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
- Obey God over government when necessary – “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29)
Christians should engage in politics with wisdom, but never replace the Gospel with nationalism.
5. How Should Christians Respond?
Instead of Christian nationalism, believers should:
✔ Prioritize Jesus over political identity
✔ Preach the Gospel, not political ideology
✔ Promote peace, justice, and love (Micah 6:8)
✔ Engage in politics with humility and wisdom
Final Thought
Jesus did not come to establish an earthly political kingdom but to bring salvation to all nations. While Christians should be good citizens, our true hope is not in governments, but in Christ.
- Matthew 6:33 – “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
