About Christian Nationalism

Christian Nationalism is one of the most contentious and most rapidly expanding political forces in America today. For some, it's a moral correction of America's Christian past. For others, the combination of religion and politics imperils the foundations of the country. Love it or hate it, you can't ignore it. But how did it emerge, and why does it appear to be spreading like wildfire?

The Origins: How We Got Here

Christian Nationalism goes back to America’s foundation as a Christian nation, an idea championed by various leaders since. This belief picked up steam during the 20th century with folks like Billy Graham, who blurred the lines between patriotism and Christianity. 

Then there was the creation of the Moral Majority founded in 1979 by Jerry Falwell, a Baptist minister and televangelist, who politically mobilized Christians to promote traditional family values and oppose liberal social policies.

During the presidency of Ronald Reagan, when conservative Christians found a political champion, evangelicals flocked to the Republican Party. Soon enough, the idea that Christianity and Americanism should be one and the same was an accepted theme. 

Over time, the religious right became more politicized in scope, extending its reach to such issues as school prayer and abortion policy. But Christian Nationalism in contemporary times is not the same. It's more militant, more extreme, and more deeply rooted in America's culture wars.

Why Is It Spreading So Rapidly?

Political Polarization – The U.S. is more polarized politically than ever before, and Christian Nationalism thrives in an us versus them mentality. When progressives are at the forefront of sustaining the division of religion and states, Christian Nationalists are insistent that the country must combine the two.

Social Media & Alternative Media – Twenty years ago, Christian Nationalist ideology was confined mostly to right-wing churches and televangelist programs. Now, platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Telegram spread these messages far and wide, reaching young people and radicalizing followers at a pace never before seen.

Disillusion with Mainstream Institutions – Many Americans are alienated by contemporary culture, perceiving it as antagonistic towards traditional Christian ethics. The breakdown of confidence in the media, government, and academia has motivated some to opt for Christian Nationalist movements promising a return to a moral, ordered society.

Trump's Victory & the Strengthening of Christian Nationalism – Donald Trump's 2024 election victory and return to the presidency emboldens Christian Nationalists than ever before. His presidency has doubled down on religious freedom, conservative values, and the undoing of progressive social policies. Trump's presidency has further emboldened Christian Nationalist rhetoric, positioning it as a dominant force in American politics.

Right-Wing and Left-Wing Christianity: Two Entirely Different Religions?

American religion is changing, and the gap between conservative and liberal Christianity is enormous. In nearly every respect, left-wing and right-wing Christianity are two entirely different religions:

Right-Wing Christianity – Focuses on personal morality, national identity, and traditional social hierarchies. It tends to be pro-life, pro-gun, anti-LGBTQ+ rights, and holds the vision of America as a city on a hill—a holy nation that must be preserved from secularizing influences.

Left-Wing Christianity – Emphasizes social justice, inclusivity, and systemic transformation. It emphasizes helping the poor, racial justice, action on climate change, and LGBTQ+ rights. Progressive Christians abhor nationalism because it is contrary to the teachings of Jesus, who preached love of all people, including immigrants and marginalized groups.

These two conceptions of Christianity are constantly in conflict with one another, Christian Nationalists viewing progressive Christianity as a watered-down religion and progressive Christians viewing Christian Nationalism as a noxious perversion of the Gospel.

The Future of Christian Nationalism

With Trump now back in office, Christian Nationalism is no longer in the fringes—it is seated at the table. Christian Nationalist policies are being implemented, culture wars over gender, education, and religious freedom continue to burn, and the movement continues to grow in influence and power. 

The question is, will it reshape America more theocratic, or will movements of resistance stand in its way?

Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Christian Nationalism is here, and it's not going away.

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