In one of a number of special episodes focused on the state and direction of the US as it approaches its 250th anniversary, this week, we explore the rise and influence of Christian Nationalism in US politics and religious life — what it is, its theological roots, and how the ideology is shaping politics, society, and even democracy itself, both in the US and beyond. We reflect upon the social consequences of the ideology for education, civil rights, and attitudes toward "the other," contrasting the movement's beliefs with the positions taken by other Christians, and their effects for minority communities, women, immigrants and many millions of Americans. As always, we consider where we might focus our intentions and prayers. Disclosure: We do take an editorial position in this episode.
Intentions and prayers begin at 37 minutes 27 seconds.
Suggested Intention Focus for this week
This week, as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary amid a time of deep difference over its future course, we suggest holding as our main intention:
We will that all Americans will have the grace to see that those with whom they may disagree are not enemies but are human beings made in God's image or have an equal right to be heard, be safe, and be free.
Please join us in holding this.
Mentioned in this episode:
‘The Violent Take It by Force: The Christian Movement That Is Threatening Our Democracy’ by Matthew D. Taylor. On Amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/Violent-Take-Force-Christian-Threatening/dp/1506497780/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0
‘The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism’ by Tim Alberta. On Amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Power-Glory-Evangelicals-Extremism/dp/006322688X/ref=sr_1_1
A prayer for America Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/aprayerforamericanow.
Labyrinth Around America. https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/laa/index.html
Related episodes of Impact!
Men Behaving Badly: Leaders Who Play The Religious Card, https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-s4zbu-18e6f49
Spain on Edge: Inside a Nation Deeply Polarized, https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-p2wbg-1947f34
Chapter markers:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:00 Understanding Christian Nationalism
00:02:55 Ideology and Influence
00:05:18 Patterns and Demographics
00:08:08 Political Violence and Extremism
00:09:00 Global Perspectives
00:12:04 Theological Foundations of Christian Nationalism
00:15:36 Historical Context
00:21:24 Critiques and Concerns
00:25:55 Social and Political Effects
00:32:46 Education and Christian Nationalism
00:33:06 Immigration Policies
00:34:46 Emotional and Psychological Impacts
00:36:25 The Role of Social Media
00:37:27 Intentions and Prayers
Sources referenced in this episode:
https://thinktheology.co.uk/blog/article/what_is_christian_nationalism
https://www.missioalliance.org/christian-nationalism-what-defines-it/
https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2022/10/27/global-far-right-christian-nationalists-00063400
‘The Religion of American Greatness: What’s Wrong with Christian Nationalism,’ Paul D. Miller, 2022, InterVarsity Press.
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