Spiritual Warfare and the Church: “Christian” Nationalism- What it looks like and how to counter it with the Gospel

What comes to mind when I say the words "Christian Nationalism”?

Christian Nationalism is not the same as Christian patriotism.

Jeremiah 29:4-7

Ironically, Christian nationalism is neither Christian or patriotic. It is a religious distortion which still wishes for Jesus to be a powerful political messiah.

Mark 12:14-17

Christian nationalism operates in a spirit of power, strength and force when Jesus has called us to humility, meekness and courageous love.

1 Peter 2:11-25 Romans 13:1-7

When should we openly oppose the government?

1. When we are forced to do something that is in direct opposition to the commands of Jesus.

Daniel 1-6

2. When we are forced to not do something that Jesus has called us to do.

Acts 4:18-21 Acts 5:27-29

For the apostles, it was sometimes ok to try to avoid conflict with leadership because of their faith or defend themselves because of their faith.

Acts 16:37

Why is this an important form of warfare?
1 Peter 2:13- Submit to every human authority BECAUSE OF THE LORD. Signs of nationalism:

• Using fear to persuade
• Christian policy apart from Christian character
• Racism
• Christian policy as a cover up for individual security.
• A love for freedom and law as long as they align with my beliefs, preferences
• and opinions.
• An overwhelming and unhealthy consumption of conspiracy narratives.
• Having no desire to step out of the echo chambers.
• Inability to admit any specific wrongdoing of your party preference.
• Countering nationalism:
• Rest in the fact that this world has been conquered by Jesus.
• Confess when “your side” has been wrong.
• Look for ways to benefit all people.
• Be compassionate about how every policy affects every person.
• Have no expectations on the government to have the ability to do what only
• the church has been called to do.
• Care about how freedoms and laws affect others. Because we are free to do
• something doesn’t mean we should.
• Listen to people who are not like you without feeling like you have to answer
• them.
• Pray and prioritize the Gospel and Kingdom of Jesus over absolutely everything
• in this world.
• Understand politics have their place but they are not a place to put your hope.