Christian nationalism has become a topic of increasing discussion and debate in political and religious circles, especially in countries where Christianity has historically played a dominant role. Though it draws upon religious ideas and national identity, Christian nationalism is more than a theological belief system—it is a political ideology that seeks to merge a particular understanding of Christianity with national governance. This essay explores the origins, core beliefs, historical evolution, and contemporary implications of Christian nationalism, with a particular focus on its influence in the United States.
Definition and Core Concepts
Christian nationalism is a political ideology that fuses national identity with Christianity, often promoting the belief that a nation is defined by Christian values, culture, and history. It advocates for the idea that the state should actively promote and protect a specific interpretation of Christian religion in public life, including governance, education, lawmaking, and cultural norms.
At its core, Christian nationalism suggests:
- The nation has a divine mission or destiny shaped by Christian principles.
- Christianity should have a privileged place in public life and policymaking.
- The government should support or enforce Christian morality and values.
- National identity is often linked with a specific ethnic or cultural identity perceived as “Christian.”
This ideology is distinct from Christianity as a religion. Whereas Christianity is a global faith centered on the teachings of Jesus Christ, Christian nationalism uses Christian symbols and narratives to support a political or nationalistic agenda.
Historical Background
Christian nationalism has historical precedents in many countries. In Europe, it was often tied to monarchies and state churches, such as the Church of England or the Lutheran churches in Scandinavia. Monarchs claimed divine authority and used religion to justify their rule and expand national unity.
In the United States, the seeds of Christian nationalism can be traced back to colonial times. Many early settlers, such as the Puritans, believed they were building a “New Jerusalem” in America. However, the U.S. Constitution explicitly separated church and state, a principle embodied in the First Amendment. Despite this, a form of civil religion developed, where references to God and Christian imagery became common in public life.
The 20th century saw a rise in Christian nationalism during moments of national anxiety—World Wars, the Cold War, and the cultural revolutions of the 1960s and 70s. In particular, the fear of communism, which was associated with atheism, fueled a stronger connection between national identity and Christianity. Phrases like “In God We Trust” and “One Nation Under God” were added to currency and the Pledge of Allegiance during this time.
Key Beliefs and Goals
While Christian nationalism is not a unified movement with a single doctrine, it often includes the following core beliefs:
- America (or another nation) is a Christian nation – Proponents argue that the country’s laws, culture, and institutions were founded on biblical principles and should return to or preserve that foundation.
- Moral restoration through law – There is a desire to implement laws that reflect a conservative Christian worldview, such as opposition to abortion, same-sex marriage, and secular education.
- Opposition to secularism and pluralism – Christian nationalists often view religious diversity and secular governance as threats to national identity and moral order.
- Cultural nostalgia – A longing for a perceived “golden age” when Christian values were dominant in public life and institutions.
- Authoritarian or populist leadership – Often, Christian nationalism aligns with strong leadership figures who promise to defend “traditional values” and restore national greatness.
Christian Nationalism vs. Religious Freedom
One of the most contentious aspects of Christian nationalism is its potential conflict with religious freedom. In pluralistic societies, government neutrality toward religion is considered a safeguard for freedom of conscience. Critics argue that when one religion is privileged by the state, it marginalizes others and undermines democratic ideals.
Furthermore, Christian nationalism tends to conflate religious and national loyalty, making dissent from dominant religious views seem unpatriotic. This can be particularly dangerous in multicultural societies, where citizens follow a variety of religious (or nonreligious) traditions.
Christian Nationalism in Contemporary Politics
In recent years, Christian nationalism has re-emerged as a potent force, particularly in the United States. Political figures and movements have invoked Christian language and symbolism to gain support from conservative religious voters. The rise of the Religious Right, starting in the late 1970s, laid the groundwork for this resurgence. It created a strong connection between evangelical Christianity and conservative politics, particularly on issues like abortion, school prayer, and opposition to LGBTQ+ rights.
The 2016 and 2020 presidential elections in the U.S. revealed the strength of Christian nationalist sentiments. Slogans like “Make America Great Again” often resonated with those who viewed Christianity as integral to national identity. Some political rallies and speeches included overt Christian imagery and messaging that positioned political leaders as defenders of the faith.
The January 6, 2021, Capitol riot further intensified the conversation, as Christian symbols were visible alongside nationalist and extremist paraphernalia. Critics argue that this event demonstrated the potential for Christian nationalism to merge with authoritarianism and undermine democratic processes.
Criticism and Controversy
Christian nationalism has received significant criticism from both secular and religious groups. Many Christian theologians reject it as a distortion of the Gospel, arguing that Christianity should not be used as a tool for political gain or cultural dominance. They emphasize that Jesus’ teachings focus on love, humility, and justice rather than power or nationalism.
Secular critics warn that Christian nationalism threatens the separation of church and state, undermines democracy, and fosters intolerance toward religious minorities and marginalized groups.
In contrast, supporters argue that Christian values provide a moral foundation for society and that removing religion from public life has led to moral decay. They believe that reclaiming Christian influence is essential to restoring national greatness.
Global Expressions of Christian Nationalism
While much of the discussion focuses on the United States, Christian nationalism is also evident in other parts of the world. In Russia, the Orthodox Church has been used to bolster Vladimir Putin’s regime, promoting a sense of spiritual and national unity. In Brazil, evangelical leaders have increasingly influenced political decisions, especially under Jair Bolsonaro’s presidency. In parts of Europe, nationalist parties invoke Christian heritage as a cultural barrier against Islam and immigration.
These global examples reveal that Christian nationalism is not merely a theological movement, but a broader cultural and political phenomenon.
Christian nationalism is a complex and controversial ideology that merges religious identity with nationalistic aspirations. While it draws on the deep cultural influence of Christianity, it raises critical questions about religious freedom, pluralism, and the role of faith in public life. Understanding its roots, beliefs, and consequences is essential in navigating the tensions it creates in modern democratic societies.
The ongoing debate over Christian nationalism is not merely about religion or politics—it is about what kind of society people want to build. Whether one supports or opposes it, Christian nationalism challenges citizens to reflect on the boundaries between faith and state, the meaning of national identity, and the values that should shape public life.
