Letter to the editor: March 30, 2023
Christian Nationalism – the Devil is in the details
There seems to be a growing movement in our country to nationalize religion. Politicians like Marjorie Taylor Greene, Lauren Boebert and Mary Miller have expressed their support. The obvious choice is Christianity. But exactly which branch of Christianity?
Do we adopt the Ten Commandments? That would include honoring the Sabath. For most of us this means going to church on Sunday. But originally the Sabbath was on Saturday and had nothing to do with going to church, it was a day of rest. Some Christians still believe this. Would we require businesses to close on a Saturday or Sunday?
Would our churches have statues and artwork? Many do, but others believe that this is a violation of the Second Commandment against making “false idols." For some this includes the Rosary and saying the Hail Mary.
Would we have a priest in his liturgical vestments or one who wears plain clothes? Could he marry? Do we follow the Pope? Some Christians consider the papacy to be the Antichrist mentioned in the Bible.
How about baptism? When, at birth or as an adult, you are reborn? How, with water, with oil, or in the blood of Jesus Christ? Where, in a church or at the river? By whom? How often? For what? What about communion, what, when, how, who?
To Americans these may seem like silly questions. Many of us are unaware of the doctrines of other churches. We are free to worship where, when and how we want to. That is the very definition of religious freedom. And it is the separation of church and state that makes that possible. Our country has been free of the religious wars that have plagued much of the world ever since Cain killed Abel.
Most Americans are aware of the Crusades which pitted Christians and Muslims against each other. We are less informed about the Holy Wars between Catholics and Protestants that have also raged over the years. Thousands have been killed in battles between people who not only believe in the same God, but who also accept Jesus Christ as their savior.
Is this what Jesus died for? No, his message was simple – “love one another.” But when a nationalized religion is involved, the Devil is in the details.
Randall Rousselo
Roscommon, formerly of Tecumseh
This article originally appeared on The Daily Telegram: Letter to the editor: March 30, 2023
