Bible Daily

Christian Nationalism: A Biblical Perspective

Introduction

The term "Christian Nationalism" has become increasingly prominent in contemporary political and religious discourse, often stirring debates about the role of religion in governance and national identity. This article aims to delve into what the Bible says about the relationship between Christianity and nationalism, seeking to understand if there is a scriptorial basis for or against the notion of a Christian nation.

Defining Christian Nationalism

Christian Nationalism can be broadly defined as the belief that a nation should be defined by its Christian identity, with laws and policies reflecting Christian values. This concept intertwines religious faith with national identity, suggesting that the state should promote Christianity as the dominant or official religion.

Biblical Foundations

The Old Testament Perspective

The Old Testament provides a complex framework for understanding the relationship between God, nationhood, and governance:

  • Israel as a Theocracy: In the Old Testament, Israel was initially governed as a theocracy, where God was considered the supreme ruler, and the laws were directly given by Him (Exodus 19:6). This model might be seen as a form of religious nationalism, where the nation's identity was fundamentally tied to its covenant with God.

  • The Prophetic Critique: However, the prophets often critiqued Israel for its failure to uphold these laws, suggesting that true national identity was not just about religious affiliation but about justice, righteousness, and care for the marginalized (Amos 5:21-24).

The New Testament Perspective

The New Testament introduces a new paradigm:

  • Jesus and the Kingdom of God: Jesus spoke frequently about the Kingdom of God, which transcends national boundaries. His teachings often challenged the idea of a physical kingdom in favor of a spiritual one (John 18:36).

  • The Early Church: The early Christian church was characterized by its diversity, including Jews, Gentiles, slaves, and free people, all united under Christ (Galatians 3:28). This suggests a universal rather than nationalistic approach to faith.

  • Render Unto Caesar: Jesus' famous statement, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" (Mark 12:17), implies a separation between the spiritual and the temporal realms, challenging the idea of a Christian state.

Biblical Principles Against Christian Nationalism

Several biblical principles can be interpreted as cautioning against the fusion of Christianity with national identity:

  • Universal Salvation: The Bible speaks of salvation for all nations, not just one (Revelation 7:9). This universalist message undermines the exclusivity of a Christian nation.

  • Love for All: Jesus commanded his followers to love their neighbors and even their enemies (Matthew 5:43-48), which transcends national boundaries and promotes inclusivity.

  • The Great Commission: The directive to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20) suggests a mission that is global, not confined to one nation or culture.

Potential Support for Christian Nationalism

While the Bible does not explicitly endorse Christian Nationalism, some interpret certain scriptures as supportive:

  • The Role of Kings: Passages like Proverbs 8:15-16, where wisdom says, "By me kings reign, and rulers decree what is just," might be seen as endorsing a form of governance where rulers are guided by divine wisdom.

  • The Influence of Righteous Leaders: The Bible does speak positively of leaders like King David or King Josiah, who sought to align the nation with God's laws, suggesting that godly leadership can benefit a nation.

Modern Interpretations and Challenges

The Role of the Church in Society

The Bible calls Christians to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16), implying an active role in society but not necessarily a political one. Here are some modern interpretations:

  • Cultural Influence: Many argue that while the church should influence culture, this should be done through persuasion and example, not through state power.

  • Separation of Church and State: The principle of separation, while not explicitly biblical, can be inferred from Jesus' teachings on rendering to Caesar and the early church's relationship with the Roman Empire.

The Dangers of Christian Nationalism

  • Idolatry: When national identity overshadows faith, there's a risk of idolatry, where the nation becomes the object of worship rather than God.

  • Exclusivity: Christian Nationalism can foster an "us vs. them" mentality, contrary to the inclusive message of the Gospel.

  • Misuse of Scripture: There's a danger of selectively using scripture to justify political agendas, which can distort the message of the Bible.

Conclusion

The Bible does not explicitly advocate for or against Christian Nationalism in contemporary terms. However, its teachings lean towards a universal faith that transcends national boundaries, emphasizing justice, love, and inclusivity. While there are elements that could be interpreted as supportive of a nation reflecting Christian values, the overarching message of scripture seems to caution against conflating religious identity with national identity in a way that excludes or oppresses others.

In navigating these complex issues, Christians are encouraged to engage with scripture thoughtfully, understanding its historical context, and applying its timeless principles to modern dilemmas with wisdom and grace. The challenge lies in balancing the call to be a positive influence in society while maintaining the integrity of the Gospel's message, which is for all people, not just those of a particular nation.