Brilliant explanation of Christian Nationalism!
As an immigrant living in the USA, I found this book incredibly illuminating. I had ideas about “Christian nationalism” but this really spelled it out. I was impressed with April’s understanding of the “seven mountain mandate” and how intertwined it is with Christian nationalism. That was definitely a revelation for me as more of an outsider.
This book helps explain the relationships between the Republican party, Christian nationalists and USA Christians in general. It is nearly impossible not to be touched by Christian nationalism as an evangelical Christian in this country (though other Protestants and Catholics may be slightly further removed from the conversation. Evangelicals from other countries, like myself from Australia, would also be less influenced by Christian nationalist rhetoric as it seems to be a very American-Evangelical bent).
April delves into American exceptionalism, right-wing media, conspiracy theories, satanic panic, queer and trans conservative views, gun rights, racism, abortion, the obsession with the end-times, fear-mongering with regard to both heaven and hell, the persecution complex, the education system, and the flipped theology from loving our enemies, to demonizing every perceivable enemy (communists, immigrants, socialists, democrats, pro-choicers, queer people, Muslims after 9/11 etc.).
Her personal stories are delightful. She takes ownership of the mistakes she now believes she made as a Christian nationalist. She is entertaining, quirky, funny, full of life and joy as her name implies. She is able to address the seriousness dangers of Christian nationalism in the USA, with satire, humor, and personality.
This book is an easy read. It is clever, witty, intelligent and I believe it has been written by one of the best possible people for the job: someone who was immersed in Christian nationalism, who eventually identified the many holes and problems in this line of thinking—this religious and political force that is scarily on the rise here in the United States.
Thank you so much for this illuminating book, and for all your work in the deconstruction sphere, April Ajoy!