On October 24, WFIU radio’s “Noon Edition” hosted a forum discussing Christian nationalism, featuring senior pastor Bob Whitaker, law professor Dan Conkle, and state Rep. Matt Pierce. Whitaker criticized the authoritarian nature of Christian nationalism, contrasting it with the teachings of Jesus, and emphasized that if Christian nationalism promotes hate, it ceases to be Christian.
The panel acknowledged the complex definitions of Christian nationalism, ranging from influencing public policy to theocratic rule. Conkle pointed out that while America’s founders held Christian beliefs, they separated church and state, asserting constitutional values over institutional ties. Pierce noted that Christian nationalism is consolidating power in Indiana’s politics due to gerrymandering and a shift towards more extreme partisan candidates.
The audience, largely against Christian nationalism, reacted positively to the panelists’ views. Despite a strong Christian majority in Indiana, Whitaker remarked on the challenge of addressing diverse beliefs within his congregation and maintaining a focus on service rather than political affiliations. The event also introduced the podcast series “Red, White and Righteous,” exploring the theme further.
