Christian nationalism is a controversial topic that is frequently debated. It is a broad ideology which generally believes that a nation’s identity is rooted in Christian values; adherents believe that they should enact laws or policies that promote, or enforce, Christian values. Its breadth draws various responses, ranging from those who approve such a vision to those who view Christian nationalists as trying to upend a supposedly secular country. Christian nationalism typically appears as a pejorative term to describe right-wing politicians and pundits who encourage a more religiously conservative America.

Contrary to the disapproval that the term evokes, there is nothing wrong with wanting a nation that is based upon a Christian belief system. In fact, it is unavoidable considering that many of the morals and foundations behind our democratic society are based in Christian values. Even our Founders, though many of them Deists, were influenced by a Christian worldview.

However, where Christian nationalists go wrong is they conflate two ideas: faith in Christ and pride of nation. Separately, there is nothing wrong with the two. However, when combined, a false assumption arises: to be American is to be Christian, and vice versa. It makes America’s cause into the cause of the Kingdom of God, and binds the Kingdom of God to whatever America wants. Ironically, Christian nationalists do not desire to submit the nation to God, but instead seek to make God follow whatever the nation wants.

Contrary to popular belief, self-identified Christian nationalists, or their sympathizers, are not all radical or far-right. They can also be simple patriotic citizens who love their country and hope that God blesses their nation. Now, there are flaws in this viewpoint (especially that it leads to Christianity becoming cultural), but it is not harmful compared to the Christian nationalists who seek to conflate America and the Kingdom of God.

Christians all over the world are called to be citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. They are also called to be good citizens in the countries in which they reside. These two callings are not mutually exclusive. Christians are called upon to understand their role as both law-abiding citizens in addition to understanding that their earthly citizenship is not the end-all. There is a greater citizenship—a greater “nation”—that takes precedence over worldly ones. This “nation” cannot be enacted through laws or policies, but through faith in Christ and the proclamation of the Gospel.

Essentially, there is nothing wrong in Christians desiring their nation to become more Christian itself. If they truly believe that Christ is the way to redemption for sinners, then they should sincerely want their fellow citizens to also believe this truth. A good citizen should aim for the well-being of their nation and neighbors, including spiritual well-being and a right relationship with God.

Now, if there are more Christian citizens in a democratic nation, it is logical that our institutions and leadership positions would reflect that ratio as well. This would be natural and good. However, stereotypically speaking, Christian nationalists seek first to acquire power so that they can enforce Christian practices on others. However, Christianity is not meant to be a tool that corrects society according to one’s image. Rather, it is a faith in God who first must fix our disordered hearts; only then can it fix our relationships with our neighbors. And when God fixes us and our neighbors, he essentially fixes entire nations and governments (which are filled with individuals). If Christianity is used as a political self-help tool, it will not profit anyone. However, if you submit to its tenants, then it will truly transform.

I believe that a Christian nation is in the best interests for my neighbors. However, stereotypical Christian nationalism as a forceful political ideology will not bring about a proper Christian nation. Christianity is not about nations ascending to God, but God descending into the world so that he can save and transform entire nations. Rather than praying that our nation becomes the Kingdom of God, Christians should instead pray: “Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”