Reflecting on Psalm 89:14 and the Divine Foundations of Authority
Introduction
Christian nationalism has surged in influence in recent years, presenting itself as a movement that seeks to align national identity and policy with Christian values. However, a closer theological examination reveals that Christian nationalism not only misinterprets the biblical vision of justice and righteousness, but also stands in contradiction to God’s revealed standards. This post argues that Christian nationalism is a false ideology, fundamentally at odds with the character and rule of God as described in Scripture, particularly in Psalm 89:14: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you.”
God’s Throne: Foundation of Righteousness and Justice
Psalm 89:14 offers a profound insight into the nature of God’s authority: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you.” This verse is not merely poetic; it is theological, describing the very bedrock upon which God’s rule is established. Righteousness (Hebrew: tsedeq) refers to rightness in character and action, a moral integrity that reflects the perfection of God. Justice (mishpat) denotes the fair and equitable treatment of all people, impartial judgment that protects the vulnerable and holds the powerful accountable. These attributes are inseparable from mercy and faithfulness, which flow from God’s nature as a loving and trustworthy Creator.
Divine justice is not abstract or detached; it is intimately connected with mercy and faithfulness. The psalmist teaches that God’s throne is sustained by these qualities, and that His governance is marked by compassion, reliability, and unwavering commitment to what is right. Any system or ideology that claims to represent God must be measured against these standards.
The Nature of God’s Rule
God’s authority is rooted in justice and right judgment. Throughout Scripture, God is portrayed as the ultimate judge who defends the oppressed, corrects the unrighteous, and extends mercy to those who seek Him. Theological commentary on Psalm 89:14 emphasizes that God’s kingdom does not advance through coercion or exclusion, but through the demonstration of ethical righteousness and lovingkindness. Justice in God’s economy is restorative, seeking the healing and reconciliation of all people. Righteousness is not self-serving, but sacrificial and inclusive.
The throne of God is not built upon national identity, cultural dominance, or political power. Instead, it stands on the unchanging pillars of righteousness and justice, manifested in mercy and faithfulness. To claim God’s authority while disregarding these qualities is to misrepresent His character and will.
Christian Nationalism: A False Ideology
Christian nationalism can be defined as an ideology that conflates Christian faith with national identity, often advocating for policies and cultural norms that privilege one group over others in the name of religious heritage. Its key tenets include the belief that the nation should be governed by Christian principles, that citizenship and faith are intertwined, and that political power should be wielded to advance a particular religious agenda.
However, this ideology diverges sharply from biblical justice and righteousness. Christian nationalism tends to prioritize exclusion over inclusion, power over mercy, and cultural uniformity over compassion for the marginalized. It often justifies the mistreatment of outsiders, minorities, or dissenters under the guise of protecting a Christian nation. These practices are antithetical to the justice, mercy, and faithfulness that characterize God’s rule.
Contrasting Ideologies: Christian Nationalism vs. Divine Attributes
When measured against the divine attributes outlined in Psalm 89:14, Christian nationalism falls short in several key areas:
· Justice: God’s justice demands impartiality and protection for the vulnerable, while Christian nationalism frequently supports systems that perpetuate inequality and social division.
· Righteousness: The righteousness of God is selfless and inclusive, but Christian nationalism often serves the interests of a select group, neglecting the broader call to love one’s neighbor.
· Mercy: Mercy is central to God’s character, extending forgiveness and compassion to all. Christian nationalism, in contrast, can foster hostility and retribution toward those outside its preferred boundaries.
· Faithfulness: God’s faithfulness is unwavering and universal, while Christian nationalism may compromise integrity for political gain or cultural advantage.
In these ways, Christian nationalism stands as a false ideology, not aligned with the foundational attributes of God’s throne. Any movement that claims divine authority while neglecting justice, righteousness, mercy, and faithfulness is contrary to God’s will and purpose.
The Call to True Worship and Humility
The response to God’s standards is not to seek power or dominance, but to embrace reverence, humility, and a commitment to His justice and righteousness. True Christian practice is marked by worship that honors God’s character, and by lives that reflect His mercy and faithfulness. Church leaders and believers are called to discern carefully between ideologies that serve God’s purposes and those that distort them.
Scripture consistently calls God’s people to humility, compassion, and justice. When Christians align themselves with movements that contradict these values, they risk undermining the very witness of the gospel. The true mark of God’s authority is not found in the assertion of national power, but in the pursuit of justice, righteousness, mercy, and faithfulness in every sphere of life.
Conclusion
Christian nationalism is a false ideology because it contradicts the biblical standards of justice and righteousness upon which God’s throne is established. Psalm 89:14 reminds us that God’s authority is rooted in righteousness, justice, mercy, and faithfulness—qualities that challenge all human systems and ideologies to reflect His character. Any movement or ideology that fails to embody these divine attributes is not aligned with God’s will. As Christians and church leaders, our calling is to pursue true worship, humility, and justice, rejecting any ideology that distorts the standards of God’s kingdom. In doing so, we bear faithful witness to the rule of the One whose throne is founded on justice and righteousness, and whose love and faithfulness go before Him.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 