Pastor Doug Wilson, leader of Christ Church in Moscow, Idaho, advocates for transforming America into a Christian theocracy and eventually converting the world to Christianity, emphasizing peaceful methods like preaching the gospel. Identifying himself as a Christian nationalist, Wilson’s influence has grown significantly, with a network of over a hundred churches expanding from the Pacific Northwest to Washington, D.C.
Christian nationalism, often misunderstood, generally refers to a belief system that sees the U.S. as intended to be a Christian nation where Christian identity is intertwined with American identity. This ideology has gained traction in Republican politics, responding to cultural concerns over moral clarity and perceived secular influence.
Polls indicate that 45% of Americans believe the U.S. should align with Christian values, reflected in laws mandating the Ten Commandments in classrooms and Christian rhetoric in political discourse. Supporters view these movements as a return to foundational values, while opponents argue they threaten the First Amendment’s religious liberty.
The debate on whether America’s founders intended for the nation to be Christian persists, with historical evidence showing that while many founders were Christian, the Constitution ensures religious neutrality at the federal level. The growing visibility of Christian nationalism raises concerns about the balance between personal faith and the establishment of laws favoring one religion over others.
