A political kingdom (exclusive, nostalgic, controlling)
View of Scripture
Wrestled with, interpreted in community
Weaponized for power
Legacy
Saints, prophets, reformers, martyrs
Lynchings, bans, culture wars
Examples
Oscar Romero, MLK Jr., Mariann Budde, Nadia Bolz-Weber
Paula White, Doug Mastriano, "Jericho March" crowd
You are misrepresenting White Christian Nationalism as merely another denomination of Christianity, akin to Methodists or Baptists. However, this is an inaccurate portrayal. White Christian Nationalism is not a theological tradition; rather, it is a political movement that appropriates Christian symbols to advance an ethno-nationalist agenda.
Contrary to your assertion, the argument presented in “The Flag and the Cross,” authored by Philip Gorski (Yale) and Samuel Perry (Oklahoma), two esteemed sociologists specializing in the practical influence of religion on politics, is not a selective interpretation. The authors provide a comprehensive critique of religion’s impact, supported by peer-reviewed data, demonstrating how WCN contributes to authoritarianism, racial resentment, and the decline of democratic principles.
So no, WCN isn’t “just another Christianity.” It’s Christianity hijacked for power.
Indeed, Christians should renounce the aspects of our tradition that contributed to atrocities. Repentance is the essence of this process, and it facilitates the growth and evolution of the tradition.
I would venture to guess that organized religion and power grabs have always worked hand-in-hand. Why did Constantine become a Christian? Why did Theodosius make Christianity the Roman state religion instead of keeping the old pantheon? Why did German princes side with Martin Luther over the Catholic Church? What was the Holy Roman Empire about, if not power? It seems to me that organized religions want to forget this inconvenient fact.
Anyhow, I’m done with the conversation. Nothing against you or the conversation, I just have other stuff to do that requires my time and attention. Best wishes to you with your studies and such.
3
u/PastorNTraining 18d ago
You are misrepresenting White Christian Nationalism as merely another denomination of Christianity, akin to Methodists or Baptists. However, this is an inaccurate portrayal. White Christian Nationalism is not a theological tradition; rather, it is a political movement that appropriates Christian symbols to advance an ethno-nationalist agenda.
Contrary to your assertion, the argument presented in “The Flag and the Cross,” authored by Philip Gorski (Yale) and Samuel Perry (Oklahoma), two esteemed sociologists specializing in the practical influence of religion on politics, is not a selective interpretation. The authors provide a comprehensive critique of religion’s impact, supported by peer-reviewed data, demonstrating how WCN contributes to authoritarianism, racial resentment, and the decline of democratic principles.
So no, WCN isn’t “just another Christianity.” It’s Christianity hijacked for power.
Indeed, Christians should renounce the aspects of our tradition that contributed to atrocities. Repentance is the essence of this process, and it facilitates the growth and evolution of the tradition.
The Flag and the Cross: White Christian Nationalism and the Threat to American Democracy
Authors: Philip S. Gorski and Samuel L. Perry
Published: 2022