Taking Our Country Back is Not Christian

Sadly the national narrative of dis-content is growing stronger, with strong voices of anti-immigration and nationalism behind a megaphone. Worryingly, among the demonstrations seems to be a politically-right leaning Christian nationalism that is also becoming louder and more prominent. Characterised by St George flags with Christian or Bible quotes added, or by demonstrators holding upright large wooden crosses, or other placards with Bible quotes, the message seems to be something like: "Take our country back to being Christian again".

Worse is when language such as 'conquer', or even worse (evoking the St George cross) language of 'crusade' seems to be re-emerging.

The Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed ...

As followers of Jesus trying our best to bear testimony to Jesus as Lord on a daily basis, I am convinced this rising tide of "Christian nationalism" is outright unhelpful. It harks back to a Christendom/conquer mindset ... which is NOT the Gospel. Jesus spoke of (and demonstrated) a completely different kind of Kingdom which, put simply, is not of this world, i.e. not about nation conquering, using any kind of earthly force or coercion. His Kingdom is characterised by righteousness, peace and joy (Romans 14:17) emerging from the love of God and His forgiveness and restoration. It starts with a tiny seed, which slowly grows ...

With so much noise out there, we have to carefully yet clearly up our game ... pointing people to the true Jesus alternative that starts with welcoming the stranger, being hosted by people quite different to us, and explaining/demonstrating the true nature of Jesus and His Kingdom. Our work is cut out for us ... being quiet is not an option.