Looking at the gap between words and deeds
For as long as America has existed, there’s been the idea that it is a “Christian nation.” You’ll hear this in speeches, see it on monuments, and read it in history books. Many of the people who founded the country were Christians, and they talked often about God and Christian values. But when we look closer, especially at how the country has acted in politics, race, and religion, the picture gets a lot more complicated.
What Does It Mean to Be a “Christian Nation”?
The basics of Christianity—at least what Jesus taught—are about loving your neighbor, helping the poor, treating others as you’d want to be treated, and living peacefully. If you look at the teachings of Christ, it’s clear that kindness, justice, and humility are at the heart of the faith.
Politics: Power Over Principles?
From the start, political leaders often mentioned Christian ideals. Yet, in practice, politics has frequently been about power and interests, not compassion. Decisions have been made that benefit the powerful and leave out the vulnerable. Wars have been fought, and sometimes even justified as “God’s will.” Laws have been passed that favored some groups over others. In day-to-day government, the teachings of Jesus—like turning the other cheek or caring for the least among us—are rarely the main focus.
Race: Falling Short of Equality
Jesus preached about loving all people. But throughout American history, racial prejudice and discrimination have shaped how people are treated. Slavery was legal for generations, even as people claimed America was a Christian country. Later, segregation, unfair laws, and hate crimes happened, sometimes with people using religion to defend their actions. Even now, racial divides and injustice remain, showing that America hasn’t always lived up to the Christian value of seeing every person’s worth.
Religion: Freedom vs. Tolerance
America’s promise of religious freedom is one of its strengths, but even here, things haven’t always lined up with Christian values. There have been times when people of other faiths (or no faith) faced unfair treatment. Arguments over whose beliefs are “correct” have sometimes led to division, not unity. Instead of loving our neighbor, too often people have judged or excluded those who are different.
The Values Gap
So, while America’s words have often pointed to Christianity, its actions have not always followed Christ’s example. The country has done good in the world, and many Americans do try to live out their faith. But the nation as a whole has struggled to match its spoken values with how it treats people—especially in politics, race, and religion.
Moving Forward
If America wants to truly reflect Christian values, it’s not enough to just say it’s a Christian nation. What matters is living out the teachings—showing love, justice, and mercy in the way we treat each other and make decisions. It’s a challenge for every generation, but one worth striving for if we want the country’s words and actions to finally match up.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 