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To the editor:
Christians Against Christian Nationalism define Christian Nationalism as the following:
"Christian nationalism is a cultural framework that idealizes and advocates a fusion of Christianity with American civic life.
Christian nationalism contends that America has been and should always be distinctively "Christian" from top to bottom- in its self-identity, interpretations of its own history, sacred symbols, cherished values, and public policies- and it aims to keep it that way.
But the "Christian" in Christian nationalism is more about identity than religion. It carries with it assumptions about nativism, white supremacy, authoritarianism, patriarchy, and militarism. "
I've been seriously studying this subject for about a year. My conclusion is that the U.S. church is in a state of confusion. Do we as a body seek political power for our "individual" wants and desires and impose the will of a particular religious belief upon others, or do we seek justice for the poor, homeless, sick and hungry as Jesus did?
I can't find anywhere in the Gospel where Jesus says go to Rome and overthrow the government or seek national power. You hear people say the United States is a Christian Nation, then in their next breath they condemn the poor, homeless and the immigrant. Not to mention those really classy yard signs with the middle fingers staring at you in plain view of everyone including children.
Some fight for gun rights yet do not condemn mass murder. Also, the religious letters and articles in the local paper are either celebrating a recent Supreme Court decision, end of the world or condemning sinners. I've really never seen a message of love for your neighbor or walk like Jesus did. It seems to be all self centered political rhetoric and what can Jesus do for me messaging or hate those sinners and Democrats.
How is the church supposed to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ if the church doesn't know what it is? You know, Jesus never promised us a rose garden. I'm not trying to condemn anyone, just frustrated. What I am asking people to do is take a deep look into their own hearts, repent and inspire others to do likewise. Matthew 18:21-22, John 13:34-35 and Proverbs 29:7 should be in our hearts and minds, be forgiving and love not hate.
Also, maybe review Romans 3:23 ( we all have sinned) just to keep us honest. The United States won't survive unless we learn to treat each other with respect and dignity regardless of our religious and cultural differences.
Jeffrey C. Baumgardner
McClure