Trying to understand Christian nationalism through the message of Jesus can be difficult and uncomfortable. For me, it raises important questions about faith, identity, and how Christians are called to live in a divided world. I believe the gospel centers on love, mercy, humility, and service. Because of that, I often struggle with how Christian nationalism expresses faith in public and political life.
What Christian Nationalism Means
Christian nationalism is not only about personal religious belief. It also ties Christianity closely to American identity and public life. Many who support it believe the United States was founded as a Christian nation and should continue to reflect their understanding of Christian values in its laws and culture. For some people, this feels like protecting an important tradition. But it can also blur the line between following Christ and defending national power.
The Gospel Calls for Something Different
At the center of the gospel is Jesus’ call to love our neighbors, care for people on the margins, and live with humility before God. Jesus reached out to people who were left out and challenged systems that put power above compassion. That is why it can be hard to reconcile the gospel with language or policies that divide people into insiders and outsiders. The gospel points first to Christ, not to any nation, party, or ideology.
Listening Without Losing the Heart of the Gospel
This topic brings up real discomfort for many Christians, including me. I have seen how Christian nationalist beliefs can deepen division and make it harder to practice grace and reconciliation. At the same time, many people who hold these views are sincere and see their faith as central to their lives. Instead of only reacting with anger, I think it is important to ask what fears, hopes, and experiences shape their beliefs. Listening does not mean agreeing, but it can help us respond with honesty and compassion.
Holding to Christ Above All
In the end, the gospel calls Christians to peacemaking, humility, and love for people who are different from us. Understanding Christian nationalism requires empathy, but it also requires staying rooted in the message of Jesus. My deepest allegiance is not to a nation, but to the Kingdom of God, where justice, mercy, and love come first. My hope is that honest conversation and humble listening can open the way for greater understanding and reconciliation, even when our differences are deep.
Minister A Francine Green, May 2026