The article discusses the contrasting narratives regarding the state of Christianity in America amidst political turmoil. While some Christian nationalists, like Fox News hosts and various evangelical leaders, proclaim a revival is underway—citing increased Bible sales, religious app downloads, and Christian music streaming—religion statistician Ryan Burge contests this with a lack of empirical evidence for such a revival.
The author reflects on historical revival meetings, emphasizing a long-standing evangelical hope for a future revival. Recent events, such as gatherings on the National Mall, reveal that many see the notion of “revival” as a euphemism for political power, particularly for the Republican Party. Figures like Sean Feucht and Josh Hawley express desires for a revival that aligns with their political agendas, blurring lines between faith and politics.
The article also highlights the “Courage Tour,” where evangelism is leveraged for political mobilization, suggesting that these movements are less about spiritual awakening and more about promoting the “America First” agenda. The narrative culminates in a troubling assertion that what is being framed as revival reflects a resurgence of white supremacy rather than traditional Christian values, with the movement’s rhetoric often ignoring foundational principles of love and forgiveness.
In summary, while Christian nationalists celebrate what they see as a revival, the author argues it reinforces dangerous ideologies rather than genuine spiritual renewal.
