What is the problem with Christian Nationalism? Christian nationalism subscribes to the idea that God shows favor to one nation as opposed to another. Many who subscribe to this view believe if a nation (their nation) does what God wants He will bless it with prosperity and peace. They also ascribe to the belief that if a nation fails to live under God’s rules, He will remove his favor.
Christianity cannot be reduced to a nation’s politics. In John 18:36, Jesus says his Kingdom is not of this world. God rules the church by grace coming to us through the Holy Spirit. Lives are changed when the Holy Spirit takes us to the cross in our failures. It is here we discover his amazing grace. This is the work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and not the work of a government. It is Jesus who is the Head of the Kingdom, not an elected official or a democratic nation.
Many who subscribe to the view of Christian Nationalism have a legalistic understanding of Christianity. They tend to see Christianity as based on rules. Of course, rules are important. One of the helpful roles of the government is to create rules that protect us. But Christianity is not based on men’s rules, but rather God’s two great commandments.
It is important that well-grounded people, of high integrity, with the highest moral character lead nations. Healthy leaders are essential for all nations. They set a tone for the nation that permeates the society they serve.
God has given no instruction for how to achieve and maintain a perfect government. All governments will have flaws. All nations will struggle with doing what is right for their people. Yet through the Holy Spirit, God is there to meet us in our frustrations bringing us to His grace in Jesus Christ.
