Political theology at its best can be an edifying pursuit as we learn together how to engage faithfully in our post-Christendom nation. However, the subject of "Christian nationalism" has become a flashpoint, where rigorously irenic disagreement seems to have been sacrificed for a series of alarmist diatribes.
Whilst legitimate critiques can be made of any number of the sprawling ideologies labelled "Christian nationalism," it does not serve anyone well to overreact. Indeed, those who ricochet against Christian nationalism are in danger of not only forcing today’s church into passionless political passivity, but also anathematising the vast majority of Christians throughout history who faithfully pursued Christian influence at a national level.
As someone who is sympathetic to several of the political aims of Christian nationalism, I would like to offer what I hope will be an illuminating contribution to the ongoing debate by responding to some recent critiques.
Before we condemn the 'Christian nationalists'...
I find it amusing how the national church is so concerned and surprised by the divisions and anxieties highlighted in …