The terms “authoritarianism” and “Christian nationalism” are becoming increasingly common in our culture. If you haven’t paused to consider what they really mean and how your faith informs your stance on these vital issues, take time to do so.
Learn more
Find further resources and stay updated: Resisting Authoritarianism and Christian Nationalism
Authoritarianism
Definition: In politics and government, the blind submission to authority and the repression of individual freedom of thought and action. Authoritarian regimes are systems of government that have no established mechanism for the transfer of executive power and do not afford their citizens civil liberties or political rights. Read more in Encyclopedia Britannica
Consider this: The United Methodist Council of Bishops states, “Climate change, global migration, growing economic disparity and other factors are causing us to feel more vulnerable and alienated. This can increase the appeal of authoritarian leaders who rely on rhetoric and policies that divide, creating a fearful environment that dampens participation in civic life and gives rise to political violence. …
“We equally denounce authoritarianism and secular and Christian nationalism, which foster centralization and abuse of power, accompanied by racism, xenophobia, tribalism, and misogyny. … No one person or political party should ever hold complete power. As people of the Wesleyan tradition, we know that God alone holds power and dominion over all of creation. …
“These ideologies are in direct contradiction to our Christian faith because our ‘love of God is always linked with love of neighbor, a passion for justice and the renewal of life in the world.’ (Our Doctrinal Heritage, The UMC Book of Discipline, ¶ 53).”
Resource: The book Building Beloved Community: The Courage to Love in the Face of Tyranny draws on global stories of courage and transformation to show how ordinary people can build extraordinary communities grounded in love rather than fear.
Through powerful stories of resistance and welcome, theological wisdom rooted in Scripture and tradition and practical strategies tested in diverse contexts, the book demonstrates that beloved community isn't just a distant dream but an achievable reality.
Christian nationalism
Definition: Ideology that seeks to create or maintain a legal fusion of Christian religion with a nation’s character. Advocates consider their view of Christianity to be an integral part of their country’s identity and want the government to promote – or even enforce – the religion’s position within it. Read more in Encyclopedia Britannica
Consider this: God’s abundant love and grace are for all people. The dominant nature of Christian nationalism can lead to racism and inequality, only further distancing those on the margins who yearn for the hands and feet of Christ to minister to and love them.
Loving your country, its ideals and its freedoms is not Christian nationalism. The move to being a Christian nationalist comes when devotion to country eclipses devotion to Christ. As Jesus says in John 18:36, “My kingdom is not of this world.”
Resource: In A difference gospel: How Christian nationalism distorts the way of Jesus, the Rev. Michael Beck points out, “Data from the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) and Pew Research Center show that Christian nationalism is a real and growing movement, especially among white conservative Protestants.
“These studies reveal clear patterns:
- Racial resentment: Christian nationalist adherents are significantly more likely to deny systemic racism and oppose multicultural education.
- Gender hierarchy: They strongly affirm patriarchal family structures and oppose women’s equality in leadership.
- Authoritarianism: They express greater support for political violence, censorship, and a ‘strongman’ leader willing to break democratic norms to protect their values.
“To call attention to this isn’t ‘partisan.’ It’s prophetic. … [Christian nationalism] has become one of the greatest obstacles to evangelism in our generation. … It trades the cross for the flag.
“Our task as followers of Jesus is not merely to condemn Christian nationalism but to offer a more beautiful gospel in its place. That means embodying a faith that is incarnational rather than ideological, a faith that shows up in love, not slogans.”
Laura Buchanan works for UMC.org at United Methodist Communications. Contact her by email.
This story was published on November 3, 2025.
