Most Christians today feel pulled between
political extremes
Some insist that “real Christians” should embrace nationalist rhetoric.
Others condemn any patriotism as idolatry.
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Many thoughtful believers are left asking:
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What kind of loyalty does God expect?
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What does Scripture actually expect of Christian citizens?
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Where’s the line between healthy patriotism and political idolatry?
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How do I navigate conversations about “Christian nationalism” wisely?
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This book offers clarity where there’s been only confusion.
Wisdom where there’s been fear.
And a deeply Biblical path forward for believers today.
In this guide you will learn:
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1. What Christian Nationalism Actually Is (and Isn’t)
Dr. Stackhouse begins by defining terms Christians often use but rarely examine
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2. How Christians throughout history understood loyalty, citizenship, and the nation-state
Why Christians have often disagreed — and what Scripture actually teaches.
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3. How Scripture Shapes Our Loyalties
In a powerful study of Biblical identity, Stackhouse demonstrates that our earthly loyalties are real, meaningful, and good—but always secondary.
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4. How to recognize the difference between patriotism and idolatry
Practical theological tools to identify when your political identity starts competing with your Christian identity.
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5. A better way to live as a Christian citizen in a polarized culture
How to remain engaged, responsible, and faithful — without losing your balance or your witness.
Prof. John G. Stackhouse, Jr.
Speaker, Author & Public Scholar
Dr. John G. Stackhouse, Jr., is an award-winning historian, theologian, and public scholar residing in Atlantic Canada. His central calling is to inform and inspire thoughtful Christians to follow Jesus more closely by thinking better about the intersection of faith and life.
Holding a Ph.D. in history and theology from The University of Chicago, Dr. Stackhouse has published a dozen books, edited or co-edited half-a-dozen more, published over a thousand articles, reviews, and book chapters. and lectured at universities around the world.
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Dr. Stackhouse has addressed audiences as varied as the Young Presidents Organization, the Kirby Laing Centre at Cambridge University, the Christian Medical and Dental Society, the Conservative Party of Canada, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, Christians for Biblical Equality, and the Alberta Teachers Association.
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He has also rendered expert testimony to the British Columbia Supreme Court,
the Manitoba Human Rights Commission, and the Canada Revenue Agency. He is a sought-after consultant with CEOs, physicians, industry leaders, pastors, lawyers, and politicians around the globe on culture, strategy, and ethics.
In early 2023, with his wife, Sarah-Jane Britton, Dr. Stackhouse co-founded ThinkBetter Media, a public-facing platform that produces Christian theology and ethics resources for thoughtful Christians on the go.

Who This Book Is For
Pastors & Teachers
Who need clarity on one of today’s most explosive cultural issues
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Thoughtful Christians
Who refuse shallow answers and want a biblical framework
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Church Leaders, Elders, and Boards
Who guide congregations wrestling with political tension
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Small Groups & Discipleship Classes
Who want structured, practical guidance rooted in Scripture
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Students & Christian Academics
Who want historical depth without academic jargon
Christian
Nationalism
A brief and balanced introduction and response to Christian nationalism for busy people.
Inside the Book:
Chapter Snapshot
Chapter 1 What Is Christian Nationalism?
A personal and theological exploration beginning with flags in churches and the meaning of allegiance.
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Chapter 2 Historical Sketch I: Religion and the Nation
How religion and empire have interacted—from missionaries to colonial abuses to modern statecraft.
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Chapter 3 Historical Sketch II: Origin Myths
Indigenous origin stories and how later national self-stories shape identity, expectations, and political behaviour in the U.S., Canada, and beyond.
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Chapter 4 Principles: Nationalism Is Good, Except When It Isn’t
A theological and ethical framework for discerning good from bad nationalism.
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Chapter 5 Qualifications
What loyalty and nationalism must have if it is to be genuinely Christian.
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Chapter 6 Applications
Practical guidance for individuals, families, churches, and communities for living out this ethical framework.
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Chapter 7 Dangers and Opportunities
A sober warning about political manipulation and misuse of faith. Finishing with Christians whom we can look to for inspiration on loving God and Country.

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