Vladimir Putin’s campaign against Ukraine has apparently been blessed by the patriarch of the Russian Orthodox church, one example of political religion. Dying while part of Putin’s army of invasion into Ukraine is even said to wash away all sins.

Political religion in several forms has long been a part of conflicts in the Middle East as well. From Islamic forces spreading their religion throughout the region and beyond, to Crusader soldiers of the Middle Ages, the differences linger on in many of the area’s conflicts today.

Political Christianity appears to be growing in the United States, even as some churches close their doors due to dwindling membership. The growth of political Christianity seems in direct contrast to the growth of actual practicing Christians.

Russell Moore suggests it might be kin to saying “those who declare themselves employed but have no income.” (From Moore’s newsletter, “Christian Nationalism Cannot Save the World,” September 29, 2022)

As Moore points out, a national Christian may be one who uses the term to distinguish themselves from those they wish to exclude, such as today’s immigrants. It is used as a way to exclude, not to serve Christ.

The teachings of Jesus, whom Christians purport to worship, spoke often of what distinguished his followers from others. In one comment on the final judgement of nations, Jesus talked of a separation of nations. The division was based on who had ministered to the needy and who had not. Those who were accepted into God’s kingdom had fed the hungry, given water to the thirsty, welcomed the stranger, clothed the naked, ministered to the sick, and visited the prisoner.

Not mentioned was nationality or the origin of one’s ancestors or what culture one lived in. Despite the fact that Jesus was a practicing Hebrew, that was not a factor in being accepted into God’s kingdom. What mattered was how one lived out God’s love for those he had created.

America certainly needs citizens concerned about the country’s problems. To bless nationalism with Christian favor, however, is a serious misrepresentation of Christ’s teachings.