RELIGION: Christian Activism & Nationalism
Ft. Dr. Owen Anderson, PhD
In the modern landscape, the term "religion" has become increasingly synonymous with the rise of Christian Nationalism. This shift raises a critical question... is this movement inherently detrimental, or could it offer something positive?
We have seen many who claim the mantle of Christianity while neglecting the command to "love thy neighbor," instead twisting scripture to fit their own agendas, a direct contradiction of the biblical warning against altering the Word for personal gain.
The praising of Nationalists like Charlie Kirk to a status bordering on idolatry seems to challenge the very First Commandment. Is Christian Nationalism simply a shield for underlying hostility?
Joining me today is Dr. Owen Anderson, a scholar who advocates for Christian values while firmly supporting the essential separation of church and state. We’ll discuss his insights on the current administration and the dangerous misuse of scripture for personal and political gain.
Ours is a time when learning often elevates idols, and even Christian philosophers turn to pagan thinkers like Plato and Aristotle. Few orthodox Christians hold tenured philosophy positions at secular universities, where anti-Christian ideas are boldly taught. Amid this darkness, the light of God's creation and providence remains visible through general revelation, pointing us to the Bible.
I am Dr. Owen Anderson, a philosophy and religious studies professor at Arizona State University, teaching for 25 years. My work has also taken me to Princeton, Princeton Theological Seminary, Biola, and other institutions. I’ve published extensively, including three books with Cambridge and two with Palgrave MacMillan.
I believe the Bible reveals what true philosophy is: understanding creation as God's work, building faith, and guiding us to fear God and keep His commandments. In a hostile environment, I choose to follow Moses, Job, Solomon, and Christ, who show us who we are and how to be reconciled with God, rather than pagan philosophers.
In times when institutions stray from God, I aim to be a clear voice in the wilderness: “Remember the works of God.” Through my teaching and writing, I encourage others to seek divine revelation, pursue wisdom, and find fulfillment in Him. Our ultimate goal is to glorify and enjoy God forever.
Source Material
∎ Dr. Owen Anderson - Professor, Philosophy and Religious Studies
∎ Why Eisenhower Added 'Under God' to the Pledge of Allegiance
∎ 10 facts about religion and government in the U.S. | Pew Research Center
∎ Christian nationalism | Definition, History, United States, & Facts | Britannica
∎ Is Donald Trump a Christian? - by David Roseberry
∎ Donald Trump isn’t a Christian, and that’s OK. – Calvin University Chimes
∎ The biggest myth about White Christian nationalism | CNN
∎ What is Christian nationalism and why it raises concerns about threats to democracy | PBS News
∎ Christian Nationalism: A New Approach
∎ The Rise of Christian Nationalism | Council on Foreign Relations
∎ Christian Nationalism | Political Research Associates
∎ Christian nationalism: A Baptist evaluation and response – Baptist News Global
∎ White supremacy | Definition, History, Examples, & Facts | Britannica
∎United States | History, Map, Flag, & Population | Britannica
∎ RELIGION: Separation of Church and State | Ft. Daniel Morgan Jr.