I want to address a topic that has stirred much confusion and division: Christian Nationalism. Through God’s Word, we’ll see that loving Christ and loving your country are not opposing ideas, and that as believers, we have a responsibility to influence our nation for God’s glory.
What Is Christian Nationalism?
When we talk about Christian Nationalism, it’s important to define it properly. Nationalism, at its core, is an overriding commitment and allegiance to one’s country — not just appreciation, but loyalty. Christian Nationalism builds upon that by recognizing that a nation, particularly America, was heavily influenced by Christian values and principles at its founding.
Christian Nationalism does not mean forcing everyone to become Christians or establishing a theocracy. Rather, it recognizes that our Constitution, justice system, and foundational documents are rooted in Judeo-Christian principles. It acknowledges that the values guiding our nation were shaped by biblical truths.
As Stephen Wolfe said in The Case for Christian Nationalism, it is the totality of national action conducted by a Christian people for both earthly and heavenly good in Christ. It is not wrong to love your country while placing Christ first.
America’s Christian Foundations
Our Constitution, signed on July 4, 1776, contains only 1,321 words — and it mentions God four times. The founding fathers recognized the importance of divine authority. While not all were perfect believers, enough Christian influence existed to weave biblical values into the very fabric of our nation.
Justice, law, and governance principles — such as due process and the requirement of witnesses — are derived directly from Scripture. These values are what make our legal system just and fair, compared to the ever-changing standards of the world.
Supreme Court Justice Joseph Story once said, “Christianity is not to be confined to the closets of our homes and the altars of our churches. It must be maintained in the courts of justice and in the halls of legislation.” Christian influence in government is not oppression — it is the preservation of justice, freedom, and human dignity.
Is It Wrong to Be Patriotic?
Some argue that Christians should separate themselves from patriotism. But the Bible teaches otherwise. In 1 Peter 2:13–14, we are commanded to submit to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake — whether to kings or governors. God has instituted human government for our good (Romans 13:1–4), and Christians are called to be the best citizens possible.
Loving your country does not mean replacing your love for Christ. Christ is always first — “Seek ye first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33). Yet, being patriotic is a natural extension of living faithfully in the nation where God has placed us.
What Is God’s Purpose for America?
Although America is not specifically mentioned in the Bible, Acts 17:26–27 makes it clear: God has determined the times and boundaries of all nations so that people might seek Him. America’s ultimate purpose — like every nation’s — is to seek the Lord.
The hope for America does not lie in political movements or parties, but in a spiritual revival that brings people back to God. The church must not shrink from its responsibility to encourage the nation to turn its heart toward Christ.
Our Biblical Response: What Should We Do?
1. Pray for Our Country
Prayer moves the heart of God. We must consistently pray for our leaders, our communities, and especially for the lost. America’s purpose is to seek God, and prayer is the greatest tool believers have to influence this nation.
2. Share the Gospel
The ultimate answer to America’s issues is not political — it’s spiritual. Like the Apostle Paul in Acts 17, we must focus not on criticizing the darkness, but on lifting up Jesus Christ. Through personal conversations, tracts, technology, and social media, we must boldly point people to the hope found in Christ.
3. Serve and Get Involved
We are called to be salt and light. That means getting involved: running for local offices, attending school board meetings, volunteering, and being a voice for righteousness in our communities. We don’t need to build a theocracy, but we can influence our society through biblical values.
We also must serve others with kindness and humility. Even when we disagree with others, we are commanded to love and respect them. Being a blessing — through smiles, prayers, or small acts of kindness — can open doors to share the hope we have in Jesus.
The Kingdom That Will Last
While we love America, we remember that no human kingdom is permanent. Daniel 2 reminds us that all earthly kingdoms will fall, but the Kingdom of God — the Kingdom of Jesus Christ — will endure forever. Our true citizenship is in heaven.
But until Christ’s return, we are called to be faithful stewards where God has placed us. We are called to influence our nation to seek God, to live honorably, and to advance the Kingdom of Christ.
Standing Firm: Loving God, Loving Country, and Living with Purpose
Christian Nationalism, rightly understood, is not about forcing Christianity upon others. It is about acknowledging the Christian values that helped shape our nation and using our influence to lead our country to seek God once again. We can love Christ supremely and love our country deeply without contradiction.
Today, I encourage you to pray for America, share the gospel, and serve your community with boldness and grace. Stand firm in the truth, be a blessing to others, and keep your hope rooted in Christ alone.
Join Us at The Open Door Church
At The Open Door Church, we are committed to standing firm in God’s truth, loving our country with gratitude, and living out our faith with boldness and grace. We invite you to be part of a community that seeks to know Christ, make Him known, and impact our nation for His glory.
Come worship with us, grow with us, and serve with us — together, let’s make a difference for Christ.
Visit our website or connect with us in person this Sunday!