Michael A. Smith Presents From Christian Fundamentalism to Christian Nationalism: A Primer Detailing the Danger to America With Discussion...

 Christian Nationalism began (early 2000s) to take a more definite shape during this time. While not all Fundamentalists embraced this ideology, there was a growing tendency within the movement to conflate American national identity with Christianity. This often manifested in efforts to emphasize America's supposed Christian foundations, challenges to the separation of church and state, and attempts to glorify conservative Christian values in law and public policy.

Foreword In the tapestry of American history, few threads have been as persistent and influential as the interweaving of religion and politics. From the Puritan vision of a "city upon a hill" to the current debates over the role of faith in public life, the relationship between religious belief and civic identity has been a defining feature of the American experience. In recent decades, this relationship has taken on new dimensions with the rise of Christian Nationalism, which seeks to align American identity and governance with a particular interpretation of Christian principles. This book comprehensively examines Christian Nationalism, tracing its roots in Christian Fundamentalism and exploring its far-reaching implications for American democracy. It is a work of historical scholarship and contemporary analysis, offering readers a deep dive into the ideological, cultural, and political currents that have shaped this influential movement. The following pages provide a nuanced understanding of how Christian Fundamentalism, born in the early 20th century as a reaction to modernism, evolved into the potent political force of Christian Nationalism we see today. From the Scopes "Monkey" Trial to the current debates over abortion rights and LGBTQ+ equality, this book charts the course of a movement that has profoundly shaped American public life. One of the striking aspects of Christian Nationalism, which this work explores in depth, is its particular interpretation of America's role in biblical prophecy. Interestingly, perhaps paradoxically, the United States is not explicitly mentioned in biblical end-times scenarios. This absence has not deterred Christian Nationalists from ascribing a divine purpose to America, often viewing it as a modern-day incarnation of ancient Israel. As the book demonstrates, this belief has had significant implications for U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding the Middle East. The comprehensive nature of this work allows readers to grasp the full scope of Christian Nationalism's influence. The book illustrates how this ideology has permeated various aspects of American life and governance, from education and the justice system to environmental policy and gun rights. It also explores the movement's global impact, examining how American Christian Nationalist ideas have influenced international relations and religious movements in other countries. Crucially, this book does not shy away from addressing the potential dangers that Christian Nationalism poses to American democracy. By advocating for a fusion of religious identity with national governance, Christian Nationalism challenges fundamental principles of religious pluralism and the separation of church and state. This work provides a clear-eyed assessment of these challenges, offering readers the tools to understand and engage with one of contemporary America's most significant political and cultural forces. At the same time, the book also explores the resistance and opposition to Christian Nationalism, highlighting the diverse array of voices - from secular activists to dissenting Christians - who have challenged the movement's claims and agenda. This balanced approach allows readers to appreciate the full complexity of the debates surrounding Christian Nationalism. As America continues to grapple with questions of national identity, religious liberty, and the proper relationship between faith and governance, the insights provided in this book are more relevant than ever. Whether you are a scholar, a policy maker, or a concerned citizen, this comprehensive primer on Christian Nationalism offers invaluable insights into a movement that continues to shape the American experience in profound ways. In an era of increasing polarization and cultural conflict, understanding the historical roots and contemporary manifestations of Christian Nationalism is crucial for anyone seeking to comprehend the forces shaping American society and politics. This book provides that understanding, offering a roadmap through the complex landscape of religion and politics in America. As you embark on this journey through the following pages, you will gain knowledge and the critical perspective needed to thoughtfully engage with one of the most significant and controversial movements in American public life. In doing so, you will be better equipped to participate in the ongoing dialogue about the future of American democracy and the role of religion in public life. (italics my emphasis)

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(One of the earliest pastors I read about today's world.)

It was just yesterday when I started to read Smith's new book and had finished, looking for more... This historian is also an excellent writer that has the ability to present his knowledge and expertise in a way that quickly pulls in readers at any level of awareness. It was especially interesting at my age, to not find much I was not already aware of as happening... BUT, had not in any way, put the pieces together to form an understanding of exactly how all this has evolved...

For me, living in a country environment where we always attended smaller churches, we were used to hearing a "routine" sermon about the Bible or Jesus and participate with accompanying music, programs and social relationships with our neighbors. Sure there were minor disagreements, but, I guarantee, it was never what has happened to take over America's religion-political connection...

One of my first thoughts was that what was being presented must have been happening at the highest levels of the church's hierarchical structure, which rarely, if ever, was shared with church members. Thus, frankly, I was shocked to realize exactly what had been happening and when efforts were made to actively work to change things...

I was so naïve that, even when there were minor announcements to start to connect within the political environment, via news or television, we quickly forgot about it because nothing more was ever shared...

And that, readers, was what shocked me as this historian began to present his thesis on the how, what, when and where of, exactly, where we are today... For instance, I had never heard of Christian Nationalism until I heard it from Margorie Taylor Green, a woman I find offensive in her manner. While the Pope has also begun what is needed in the Catholic Church... good and bad seems to be happening as more and more people understand what was "expected" from the government... as opposed to where we now are...

Readers, if you, too, have found yourself in the midst of total confusion about what is happening around the world, believe me you are not alone... and here at Book Readers Heaven, I'm trying to share to bring some semblance of effort toward all that we are hearing--and worrying about... One of the reasons I work to share videos of the reality and diversity of the divide we are in, is to allow us all to learn as we move forward...

I believe this book will be of great help in this regard... Think of it as if you were taking a college-level class on the history of Religion. Me, I've never been an individual who paid much attention to denomination. In my opinion, most of us are "born" into the religion of our parents/family, so it became a natural choice for those who were being introduced into a church. 

However, we have learned much through the political side of religion? Never thought I would be saying that... that it was a "known" fact that the republic party was made up of many Christians... 

One of the major points that Smith brings out is one that I had been spotlighting on an ongoing basis... political activities had begun with slaves being owned, and continued on into the civil rights movement... All efforts to improve the lives of minorities, were to be opposed by the republican party--at least as decided by the hierarchical members??? Indeed, that is where the two parties began to divide. The democratic party, we find now, is actually the group that supports what is morally imperative for the good of all Americans...

Jerry Falwell, who founded the Moral Majority in 1979, was a key figure in this period. This organization aimed to mobilize conservative Christians as a political force, marking a significant departure from the political quietism of earlier fundamentalism. The Moral Majority focused on issues such as opposition to abortion, support for traditional family values, and resistance to gay rights, framing these as part of a broader struggle to "restore" America's supposed Christian heritage. The 1980 election of Ronald Reagan, who actively courted the support of religious conservatives, marked a turning point. It demonstrated the movement's potential political power and encouraged further engagement with electoral politics. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, organizations like the Christian Coalition, founded by Pat Robertson, worked to increase the influence of conservative Christians within the Republican Party. The political engagement of Fundamentalists during this period was more complex than simply aligning with the Republican Party. While the majority did gravitate toward conservative politics, there were notable exceptions. For instance, Jimmy Carter, a self-professed born-again Christian, attracted some Fundamentalist support in his 1976 presidential campaign. However, disappointment with Carter's presidency among many conservative Christians contributed to the rightward shift of the movement in subsequent years. The formation of the Religious Right wasn't without internal disagreement. Some Fundamentalist leaders, like Bob Jones III, were initially skeptical of political engagement, viewing it as a distraction from spiritual concerns.

And there we have it...

Smith presents a complete review of what has occurred to get us to the point of Christian Nationalism... For me and perhaps many of us, we worked through the emergence of daily activities that were affected by our religious life and the life of an American citizen. I still remember when I was asked to sign a petition to have stores opened on Sunday and I wouldn't sign it... Only to later realize that I was being very prejudicial, especially when I realized that many Christians, for instance, were required to work on Sundays at hospitals and other service agencies and that was the beginning of my acceptance of the need for separation of church and state... This book pulled all of my life's memories into a logical chronology and showed me exactly how and when the evolution occurred... and how it was guided by the republican party members... and, need I say, by those who use politics for power and greed...

By the way, an extensive reading reference list is included as an appendix... I consider this a must-read.

GABixlerReviews

I just had to do it...if you are OK with what this man says...or other similar hate-filled lies... well, then...

you know why the majority of us are working against this administration!

!BTW, I oppose the language of this speaker, but it's the least of problems these days!!!

Isn't it? Work to measure your own concerns and fight for what's right for our country! 

Today's News!!!

Will the Supreme Court Step In?

If so? The Supreme Court should be

Questioned Immediately?