A Plain-Language Guide to the Ideology, Its Influence, and the Debate Surrounding It
Introduction
Christian Nationalism is a topic that’s been making headlines and stirring up debates across America. But what exactly is it, and why is it so controversial? In simple terms, Christian Nationalism is an idea and movement that says the government and culture of a country—in this case, the United States—should be shaped by Christian beliefs and values. Supporters of Christian Nationalism want Christianity to have a central and privileged role in American life, from the laws we make to the leaders we elect.
This post will break down what Christian Nationalism is, how it shows up in public life, where it comes from, and what problems or questions it raises for American democracy. Whether you’re just hearing about this for the first time or want a clearer understanding, this guide will walk you through the basics in everyday language.
What Is Christian Nationalism?
At its core, Christian Nationalism is the belief that the United States is, or should be, a “Christian nation.” In other words, some people think that America’s identity, laws, and future are tied directly to the Christian religion and its teachings. This doesn’t just mean that lots of Americans are Christians, or that Christianity has played a big role in American history—most people would agree on that. Instead, Christian Nationalists believe the government should actively support, prioritize, and sometimes enforce Christian beliefs and practices.
For example, this might mean passing laws inspired by the Bible, putting Christian symbols in public places like schools or courthouses, or choosing leaders who promise to put their Christian faith first when making decisions for the country. While this idea isn’t brand new (America has seen it in different forms since colonial times), it’s become more prominent in recent years, sparking debates about religious freedom, equality, and what it means to be truly American.
Key Beliefs of Christian Nationalism
- America as a Christian Nation: The belief that the United States was founded as, and should remain, a Christian country—with a culture, history, and government shaped by Christian principles. People with this view often feel it’s their duty to defend or restore this identity.
- Government Should Favor Christianity: Christian Nationalists believe the government shouldn’t be neutral about religion. Instead, they think it should openly support Christian beliefs and practices, such as allowing prayer in public schools or displaying religious symbols in public spaces.
- Christian Leaders as Moral Guides: There is a strong preference for leaders and lawmakers who are open about their Christian faith, and who promise to make decisions based on biblical values.
- Other Faiths Placed Below Christianity: While people of other religions (or no religion) might be allowed to practice their faith, Christian Nationalism often puts them in a secondary position—not granting them equal status or influence in public life.
Christian Nationalism vs. Civic Nationalism
It’s important to understand how Christian Nationalism is different from another idea called “civic nationalism.” In civic nationalism, what unites Americans is not religion, ethnicity, or heritage, but shared values like equality, citizenship, and democratic participation. Being American, in this view, is about being part of a community that welcomes people of all backgrounds, as long as they respect the nation’s laws and values.
Christian Nationalism, on the other hand, draws a boundary around Christian faith and practice. It says that being truly American means being Christian, or at least accepting Christianity as the guiding force in public life. This difference matters a lot because it affects who is included and who is left out of the national community.
Where Does Christian Nationalism Come From?
Christian Nationalism isn’t the same everywhere, and not all supporters agree on everything. But there are a few common threads in its history and ideas.
Some people who support Christian Nationalism say that God has given nations, including America, a special purpose, and that Christian leaders are necessary for society to prosper. Others look back to early American history, especially the Puritans’ vision of a “city on a hill,” as proof that America is meant to be a beacon of Christian values.
Writers and thinkers like Stephen Wolfe have argued that while non-Christians might live peacefully in a Christian nation, they wouldn’t have the same political rights as Christians. Instead, Christian citizens would have a privileged place in making laws and setting the direction of the country.
Christian Nationalism in American History
- Colonial Times: Many early colonies were set up as explicitly Christian communities. Some required church attendance or limited political participation to Christians only.
- Religious Language in Government: Phrases like “In God We Trust” (on money) and references to God in government ceremonies highlight the blend of faith and civic life.
- Modern Political Movements: The Moral Majority in the 1980s, the rise of the Christian Right, and ongoing efforts to include more religion in public schools all show Christian Nationalism at work.
How Does Christian Nationalism Show Up Today?
In modern America, Christian Nationalism can be seen in many debates and initiatives. Here are a few ways it appears:
- Efforts to pass laws against abortion, same-sex marriage, or LGBTQ rights, often using biblical arguments.
- Campaigns to bring prayer or religious lessons back into public schools.
- Movements to display Christian symbols—like crosses or the Ten Commandments—in government buildings or on public land.
- Attempts to restrict or limit the rights of religious minorities or non-religious citizens, sometimes making it harder for them to participate fully in public life.
Supporters say these actions are about keeping America true to its roots. Opponents argue that they threaten religious freedom and equality.
Why Is Christian Nationalism Controversial?
Christian Nationalism sparks heated arguments because it touches on basic questions about what kind of society America should be. Here are some of the main points of controversy:
- Religious Freedom: America’s Constitution promises freedom of religion for all. Critics say that privileging Christianity undermines this right for others.
- Equality: Placing Christians above others in public life goes against the American ideal that everyone is equal under the law.
- Threat to Pluralism: America is a diverse country, home to many faiths and viewpoints. Critics warn that Christian Nationalism could make it less welcoming to people who don’t share the dominant faith.
- History and Facts: Some historians point out that America’s founders included not just Christians, but also deists and skeptics. Many founders supported separating church and state, making the idea of a purely “Christian nation” an oversimplification.
What Would a Christian Nation Look Like?
If the vision of Christian Nationalists became reality, America would see a clear hierarchy in public life. Christians would be at the center, making the key decisions and enjoying full citizenship. Non-Christians, on the other hand, would have fewer rights and less say in how the nation is governed. They might still benefit from good laws and social order, but they wouldn’t have equal political standing or influence.
This approach would echo past eras when certain groups were excluded from full participation in American society. It raises big questions about what it means to be a citizen, who belongs, and how the country should handle its religious diversity.
Conclusion: What’s at Stake?
Christian Nationalism is a powerful force in American politics and culture, but it’s also deeply controversial. Its call for blending Christian faith with government challenges some of the country’s most cherished principles: religious freedom for all, equality before the law, and respect for diversity. As the nation continues to wrestle with questions of identity and belonging, the debate over Christian Nationalism will play a big role in shaping the future.
To truly understand Christian Nationalism, it’s not enough to look at its religious or political claims. We must also ask what kind of society we want to build—one that centers on a single faith, or one that welcomes all people, regardless of their beliefs. The answers to these questions will help decide the path forward for American democracy.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 