I’m currently working through some of the Biblical texts and examples I’ve heard cited in support of Christian Nationalism. Some of these examples are found in articles, books and YouTube talks, others come up in discussion.
One example that I’ve heard alluded to is that of what God’s people did in exile, particularly the example of Daniel who found himself serving as an official in the Babylonian and Persian Empires.
Then there is Jeremiah’s instruction to those going into exile. They should expect to be there for the long haul and that meant they should settle in and “seek the welfare of the city” because what was good for Babylon’s well-being was good for theirs.
So Daniel served. However, it is worth remembering that he did not specifically choose to serve in government. He didn’t run for office, he didn’t launch a campaign organisation. Rather, Daniel was a captive. He had no choice in the matter.
However, once placed in that context, it is clear that Daniel sees himself as placed there by God. He uses his gifts and skills for the well-being of the Emperor and Babylon. More than that, he uses that place to speak God’s Word as a prophet. He can challenge and even rebuke the Emperor.
Now we live in a democracy so we aren’t compelled into servitude. However, we are also exiles. That’s how the New Testament speaks of the Church. Our home is in the age to come. However, we are here now. I believe that Daniel offers us an example of how to live now. It is worth remembering that his example is not of an attempted take over, a Judaisation of Babylon though Jews including Esther and Nehemiah in Petsia.
We can use the opportunities that God gives us wherever he places us, in our own neighbourhood, in the workplace, as voters and constituents. God may well place some of us into politics. Others will be educators and some will have influence through art and the media. Each and every one of us can pray.
This gives a healthy model for living in the world now but it has nothing to do with Christ Nationalism.
Faithroots 