In recent years, we have witnessed the rise of Christian Nationalism in the United States, a troubling development that seeks to intertwine faith with a specific national identity. This ideology often promotes the idea that America has a unique divine mandate and that to be truly Christian is to support certain political views. As followers of Christ, we must carefully discern the difference between genuine faith and a distorted version that places nationalism above the teachings of Jesus.
In a way, this is not a new topic. The Presbyterian Church (and our theological forerunners) has long sought to address such dangers, recognizing the ways in which faith can be co-opted by political movements. Our denomination’s Book of Confessions includes “The Confession of 1967” and the “Barmen Declaration” (1934), both of which were written in response to similar concerns in different eras. They were written to speak powerfully that our ultimate allegiance is to God, not any nation or political party.
The threats posed by Christian Nationalism are uncomfortable, but we must explore them. Thus, in September 2024 our worship included a two-week sermon series titled No Other Gods: Unmasking Nationalism. which considered what it means to hold our allegiance first and foremost to Christ, and unmasked the ways in which nationalism can distort our faith.
Week One: Our True Home
Philippians 3:17-4:1
In the third chapter of his letter to the Philippian church, Paul reminds us that our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await Jesus, our Savior. This passage helps us explore how our identity as Christians transcends national borders and political affiliations. Following the sermon, the congregation affirms their faith using excerpts of The Confession of 1967.
Week Two: Where Our True Allegiance Lies
Matthew 22:15-22
In Matthew 22, Jesus navigates the tricky terrain of political power and religious obligation when he says, “Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” This teaching challenges us to consider our loyalties, and how we can live out our faith in a complex world. Following the sermon, the congregation affirms their faith using excerpts of The Declaration of Barmen.
Resource List
Books, Documentaries, and Denominational Resources
Interested in learning more about the problem of Christian Nationalism, the history of the movement, and what the Reformed theological tradition has to say about it? Consider the resources on this partial bibliography.