What do you think?
Rate this book
Why Do the Nations Rage?: The Demonic Origin of Nationalism
What if we understood nationalism as a religion instead of an ideology? What if nationalism is more spiritual than it is political? Several Christian thinkers have rightly recognized nationalism as a form of idolatry. However, in Why Do the Nations Rage?, David A. Ritchie argues that nationalism is inherently demonic as well. Through an interdisciplinary analysis of scholarship on nationalism and the biblical theology behind Paul's doctrine of "powers," Ritchie uncovers how the impulse behind nationalism is as ancient as the tower of Babel and as demonic as the worship of Baal. Moreover, when compared to Christianity, Ritchie shows that nationalism is best understood as a rival religion that bears its own distinctive (and demonically inspired) false gospel, which seeks to both imitate and distort the Christian gospel.
- GenresPoliticsNonfiction
172 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 7, 2022
6 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
August 22, 2022
"Why Do the Nations Rage?" is an interesting book that posits a liberal opposition to "nationalism" via a biblical exegesis from a fundamentalist viewpoint.
What must be understood from the onset is that what the author distinguishes from nationalism as patriotism - is often what others would include within the common use of the term nationalism.
The preface centers the book in the immediate aftermath of the January 6th events and provides an interpretation of said events that is quite different from normal political causes and explanations.
Very briefly, it posits an objective spiritual reality above and beyond earthly politics. Furthermore, it posits - via an interpretation of Pauline Epistles - a respective demonic influence over individual nations. In layman's terms it might be called "The Devil made me do it" line of reasoning.
The author starts with the story of Babel from Genesis, he then moves onto the Psalms, and then later to the Apostle Paul to support his thesis of nationalism as a form of idol worship; often at the behest of an overt demonic influence.
After providing biblical examples and interpretation the author moves onto the current day Christian and the rise of Nationalism. Here he posits that a Christian has final citizenship in heaven, therefore, since all nations are temporary, ultimate allegiance belongs only to Christ.
He then posits that all pastors have a duty to preach this heavenly reality, especially in opposition to a view of the nation that posits it as the ultimate good.
My two caveats would be 1.) A definition of Nationalism that posits it as the State above all, which is more akin to Fascism than how a lot of people would view Nationalism, what the author briefly refers to as Patriotism. 2.) A lack of clarification of what exactly the relationship of the Christian is supposed to be in relation to the State.
What must be understood from the onset is that what the author distinguishes from nationalism as patriotism - is often what others would include within the common use of the term nationalism.
The preface centers the book in the immediate aftermath of the January 6th events and provides an interpretation of said events that is quite different from normal political causes and explanations.
Very briefly, it posits an objective spiritual reality above and beyond earthly politics. Furthermore, it posits - via an interpretation of Pauline Epistles - a respective demonic influence over individual nations. In layman's terms it might be called "The Devil made me do it" line of reasoning.
The author starts with the story of Babel from Genesis, he then moves onto the Psalms, and then later to the Apostle Paul to support his thesis of nationalism as a form of idol worship; often at the behest of an overt demonic influence.
After providing biblical examples and interpretation the author moves onto the current day Christian and the rise of Nationalism. Here he posits that a Christian has final citizenship in heaven, therefore, since all nations are temporary, ultimate allegiance belongs only to Christ.
He then posits that all pastors have a duty to preach this heavenly reality, especially in opposition to a view of the nation that posits it as the ultimate good.
My two caveats would be 1.) A definition of Nationalism that posits it as the State above all, which is more akin to Fascism than how a lot of people would view Nationalism, what the author briefly refers to as Patriotism. 2.) A lack of clarification of what exactly the relationship of the Christian is supposed to be in relation to the State.
May 28, 2022
Excellent and challenging encouragement in these politically fraught times.
February 4, 2022
Full disclosure: Pastor David Ritchie is my pastor, friend, and supervisor at the church we both serve.
Why Do the Nations Rage? The Demonic Origin of Nationalism is a necessary corrective to our post-Enlightenment tendency to view the "powers" of Scripture in purely materialistic terms and the idolatry of nation that distorts the essential truths of the Christian religion. While the social imaginary we post-Moderns inhabit, to crib from Charles Taylor, is the nonporous world of "electric lights and radios" (pg 11, citing Bultmann), the Bible was written in, to, and by a culture that lived in a porous social imaginary, haunted by the transcendent. As Ritchie writes, "many contended that for Christianity to have a respectable place in the world, (or, more honestly, Western Academia) Christian doctrine would need to be demythologized and redefined."
While theological liberals would be perfectly content to reframe Christianity in these neutered terms, theological conservatives are often willing to play along, either because they forgot their faith's transcendent and spiritual aspects or have bought into the underlying assumptions. Ritchie proposes evangelicals join our Majority World co-religionists in embracing "that which should be obvious: Paul almost certainly believed the powers were spiritual entities" (pg 14). This "biblical realism" sees the story of redemption as a three-actor drama. The Triune God acts upon a world enthralled to worldly powers to deliver humanity back into his dominion. God, in Christ, decisively dethrones the powers and establishes himself as the rightful ruler over his creation (pg 10).
Building off the idea of actual demonic spirits as Paul's rulers, authorities, and cosmic powers, Ritchie then seeks to make the case that the Old Testament paints a close, if not intimate, relationship between "the nations" and demonic figures who position themselves as false gods. The starting point for the nations, in many ways, is Babel, man's first nation-building project. (The irony would perhaps be more palpable in 2004, but I digress.) For the sin of constructing a city and tower as "an altar to the worship of [the proto-Babylonian's] corporate glory," the nations are scattered to the ends of the earth (pg 33). The nations, Ritchie points out, are divided among the "sons of God" (Deuteronomy 32:8, ESV). In a footnote, Ritchie explains the varied textual traditions and points to a more technical scholarly debate regarding whether sons of Israel or sons of God is the better, more attested version. Assuming Ritchie has chosen the right side of the discussion – and there is good reason to believe he has – these "lesser gods" are created, spiritual beings. The sons of God positioned themselves as powers and authorities and have taken up nations as the basis for and the realm of their control. They are worshiped as patron deities and will be judged as usurpers (pg 34-35). There is a reason, after all, that many ancient kingdoms closely identified with one god, even while acknowledging a pantheon, and often went to great lengths to divinize their human rulers, be they the Pharaohs or the Caesars. However, the God of Israel is a Divine Warrior, the focus of chapter 7, working for his own agenda and glory, often demonstrating his power not through Israel but despite Israel (pg 52).
Given that "nationalism" is often filled with religious fervor, devotion to one's conception of the nation, with its own liturgies and rites, regardless of whether and where we could quaintly categorize the ideology on the left-right spectrum, it is not a stretch to label "nationalism" as categorically religious (pg 20). And if religious, then idolatrous since it is not by definition oriented toward Yahweh. And if idolatrous corrosive of the human soul and experience, leading the accomplishment of deeds both "great and terrible" (pg 21). Therefore, Ritchie argues, any attempt at a "Christian nationalism" is syncretic and incompatible with the essential purity of the gospel message. And yet, despite the ancient origins of nationalism, nationalism continues to rear its head with modern manifestations and avatars.
Ritchie cites many examples of nationalism as religion in the modern context to show its continued relevance, focusing because of his context on religio-nationalist imagery from both the Right and Left in the United States and its history. (Ritchie also notes nationalism in East Asia, particularly Meiji Restoration emperor exaltation in Japan and the concept of the Mandate of Heaven in China. Unfortunately, Juche Thought and the Kim family's divinization in North Korea did not make the cut. Still, I believe this to be my small but proud contribution to this work (pg 102).)
Herein lies the pastoral heart of Why Do the Nations Rage? If nationalism is of demonic origins, how do Christians recognize and repent of nationalism infecting their worldviews? "Part V: Where Do We Go From Here" is where the rubber meets the road, and Ritchie seeks to map out a course for "contending with false gospels" and "contending with the powers." The journey will at times be bitter for, as Ritchie writes, "to preach against nationalism is to preach against the powers themselves, and when these powers attack, they tend to fight back with a vengeance" (pg 134). We can endure by taking on a posture of spiritual warfare, rather than mere political bickering, and adopting a politics of eternal hope rather than temporal power. We can declare and display "the gospel of our Crucified King" until "that final day when the vicious reign of the powers is brought to a consummated end."
The one thing I would love to see more of would be a positive description of patriotism. What would it look like to serve as an elected official or work in the government or serve in the military or be a conscientious citizen with a rightly ordered love of nation, positioned correctly below a love for Christ? Nevertheless, Ritchie accomplishes his stated goals of describing nationalism and its religious nature in an efficient 144 pages.
Having labored with Pastor David for eight years in a church replanting endeavor turned growing and maturing family of disciples, I know David's pastoral heart in this matter. He is not interested in scoring cheap political points against opponents but rather in calling all Christ-followers into a more profound love of Christ and repenting of our idols, whatever the cost. I commend this book to at least the minister who finds themselves or their congregations tempted to conflate loyalty to Christ to allegiance to a political vision or to America itself.
Why Do the Nations Rage? The Demonic Origin of Nationalism is a necessary corrective to our post-Enlightenment tendency to view the "powers" of Scripture in purely materialistic terms and the idolatry of nation that distorts the essential truths of the Christian religion. While the social imaginary we post-Moderns inhabit, to crib from Charles Taylor, is the nonporous world of "electric lights and radios" (pg 11, citing Bultmann), the Bible was written in, to, and by a culture that lived in a porous social imaginary, haunted by the transcendent. As Ritchie writes, "many contended that for Christianity to have a respectable place in the world, (or, more honestly, Western Academia) Christian doctrine would need to be demythologized and redefined."
While theological liberals would be perfectly content to reframe Christianity in these neutered terms, theological conservatives are often willing to play along, either because they forgot their faith's transcendent and spiritual aspects or have bought into the underlying assumptions. Ritchie proposes evangelicals join our Majority World co-religionists in embracing "that which should be obvious: Paul almost certainly believed the powers were spiritual entities" (pg 14). This "biblical realism" sees the story of redemption as a three-actor drama. The Triune God acts upon a world enthralled to worldly powers to deliver humanity back into his dominion. God, in Christ, decisively dethrones the powers and establishes himself as the rightful ruler over his creation (pg 10).
Building off the idea of actual demonic spirits as Paul's rulers, authorities, and cosmic powers, Ritchie then seeks to make the case that the Old Testament paints a close, if not intimate, relationship between "the nations" and demonic figures who position themselves as false gods. The starting point for the nations, in many ways, is Babel, man's first nation-building project. (The irony would perhaps be more palpable in 2004, but I digress.) For the sin of constructing a city and tower as "an altar to the worship of [the proto-Babylonian's] corporate glory," the nations are scattered to the ends of the earth (pg 33). The nations, Ritchie points out, are divided among the "sons of God" (Deuteronomy 32:8, ESV). In a footnote, Ritchie explains the varied textual traditions and points to a more technical scholarly debate regarding whether sons of Israel or sons of God is the better, more attested version. Assuming Ritchie has chosen the right side of the discussion – and there is good reason to believe he has – these "lesser gods" are created, spiritual beings. The sons of God positioned themselves as powers and authorities and have taken up nations as the basis for and the realm of their control. They are worshiped as patron deities and will be judged as usurpers (pg 34-35). There is a reason, after all, that many ancient kingdoms closely identified with one god, even while acknowledging a pantheon, and often went to great lengths to divinize their human rulers, be they the Pharaohs or the Caesars. However, the God of Israel is a Divine Warrior, the focus of chapter 7, working for his own agenda and glory, often demonstrating his power not through Israel but despite Israel (pg 52).
Given that "nationalism" is often filled with religious fervor, devotion to one's conception of the nation, with its own liturgies and rites, regardless of whether and where we could quaintly categorize the ideology on the left-right spectrum, it is not a stretch to label "nationalism" as categorically religious (pg 20). And if religious, then idolatrous since it is not by definition oriented toward Yahweh. And if idolatrous corrosive of the human soul and experience, leading the accomplishment of deeds both "great and terrible" (pg 21). Therefore, Ritchie argues, any attempt at a "Christian nationalism" is syncretic and incompatible with the essential purity of the gospel message. And yet, despite the ancient origins of nationalism, nationalism continues to rear its head with modern manifestations and avatars.
Ritchie cites many examples of nationalism as religion in the modern context to show its continued relevance, focusing because of his context on religio-nationalist imagery from both the Right and Left in the United States and its history. (Ritchie also notes nationalism in East Asia, particularly Meiji Restoration emperor exaltation in Japan and the concept of the Mandate of Heaven in China. Unfortunately, Juche Thought and the Kim family's divinization in North Korea did not make the cut. Still, I believe this to be my small but proud contribution to this work (pg 102).)
Herein lies the pastoral heart of Why Do the Nations Rage? If nationalism is of demonic origins, how do Christians recognize and repent of nationalism infecting their worldviews? "Part V: Where Do We Go From Here" is where the rubber meets the road, and Ritchie seeks to map out a course for "contending with false gospels" and "contending with the powers." The journey will at times be bitter for, as Ritchie writes, "to preach against nationalism is to preach against the powers themselves, and when these powers attack, they tend to fight back with a vengeance" (pg 134). We can endure by taking on a posture of spiritual warfare, rather than mere political bickering, and adopting a politics of eternal hope rather than temporal power. We can declare and display "the gospel of our Crucified King" until "that final day when the vicious reign of the powers is brought to a consummated end."
The one thing I would love to see more of would be a positive description of patriotism. What would it look like to serve as an elected official or work in the government or serve in the military or be a conscientious citizen with a rightly ordered love of nation, positioned correctly below a love for Christ? Nevertheless, Ritchie accomplishes his stated goals of describing nationalism and its religious nature in an efficient 144 pages.
Having labored with Pastor David for eight years in a church replanting endeavor turned growing and maturing family of disciples, I know David's pastoral heart in this matter. He is not interested in scoring cheap political points against opponents but rather in calling all Christ-followers into a more profound love of Christ and repenting of our idols, whatever the cost. I commend this book to at least the minister who finds themselves or their congregations tempted to conflate loyalty to Christ to allegiance to a political vision or to America itself.
July 13, 2022
"It is crucial for Christians to clearly recognize the distinction between rightly ordered patriotism and idolatrous nationalism; to recognize the difference between gratitude to God for one's nation and the temptation to worship one's nation as a god. None of us are above this temptation. Sadly, the people of God have had a long history of looking to political power for salvation. We have a long history of crying out the name of insurrectionist 'Barrabus!' instead of the name of the Prince of Peace, who alone has the power to make all things new. The powers are real, and they are greedy for our affection. Yet the exhortation of Joshua 24 still applies to the people of God today. We must put away the gods of our fathers and the gods of the nations. We must choose this day who we will serve" (142).
This book is deeply relevant, contextual, and a must read for the perilous time in which we live in the United States. Ritchie asks the question ALL people who call themselves Christians need to ask: who do we serve/pledge our allegiance? Christ? Or the United States?
'Why do the Nations Rage? The Demonic Origin of Nationalism' by David Ritchie is a contextual and relevant unpacking of the idolatrous and demonic power of nationalism, particularly in how it has co-opted a façade of Christianity to justify itself. Ritchie shows that christian nationalism is a paradoxical identity because "nationalism involves the exaltation of a nation (or a particular conception of a nation) to the highest place of allegiance, concern, and devotion, [thus] it is essentially idolatrous" (6). Nationalism cannot be Christian because it is inherently idolatrous. Furthermore, Ritchie shows that while the January 6, 2021 Capitol Riot is a contemporary manifestation of nationalism, nationalism has ancient roots and is generally demonic: "when examined through the lens of biblically demonology, you will discover that there is little distinction between the ancient pagan's worship of national patron deity and the contemporary nationalist's tendency to exalt a particular nation to a place of functional divinity" (6). As a result, Ritchie argues that "nationalism-not atheism, not new age spiritualism, nor any other traditional world faith-is the greatest religious rival to the Christian gospel that vies for the worship of [God's] people....seek[ing] to conquer Christianity, or...to co-opt Christianity for its own purposes" (6).
Ritchie accomplishes this goal through five sections in this book.
The first section carefully describes how the New Testament writings of Paul use the terms 'powers,' 'principalities,' 'authorities,' and other terms to describe "spiritual beings that are personal in nature and exert corporate influence over groups of people....and geographical territories" (9), including 'nations.'
Ritchie then summarizes these demonic 'spiritual beings' under the umbrella term 'powers' and explains how these 'powers' were the reason why the God of the Old Testament/New Testament condemned 'pagan nations' and 'national patron deities' in the second section.
In the third section, Ritchie shows that Christ has defeated all demonic forces of evil through his life, death, and resurrection. Thus, Christ has not only defeated our reliance upon the 'powers,' but has commanded us to resist these powers. Christians cannot simply ignore or turn a blind eye to the idolatry of nationalism, but we must name, denounce, and resist the evils of nationalism through primacy of devotion to Christ and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit.
In order to accurately name the evils of nationalism today, so that Christians can denounce and resist them, section four describes how nationalism has co-opted a façade of Christianity and created a systematic theology of nationalism" (93). In short, this theology of nationalism primarily "stands against the first commandment and the Christian understanding of God as the one to whom highest praise and devotion belongs...[through] the belief that 'loyalty to the nation overrides all other loyalties'" (95). Some modern examples include the symbols of "Columbia (or Freedom) as the patron goddess of the United States....flags function[ing] beyond a mere identifying symbol of a nation, and instead having been imbued with sacred significance and accorded ritualistic worship"(97), the pledge of allegiance in schools, national art that uses Christian imagery, ascribing messianic characteristics to politicians, manifest destiny, and ascribing 'right Christian belief' to stances, beliefs, and platforms of politicians or political parties. As Ritchie explains, "the term 'Christian nationalist' is just as oxymoronic as 'Yahwist Baal worshiper.' When Christianity mixes with nationalism, the sum of this syncretism yields only nationalism....For this reason, Christians must have no part in nationalism" (122).
In the fifth and final section, Ritchie provides tangible ways for Christians to resist the demonic powers of nationalism. First, ministry leaders must confront nationalism head-on in their ecclesial spaces (125). Ritchie provides very practical and tangible Christ-centered responses to the pitfalls and lies of nationalism. This was my favorite section of the book and I'd recommend snagging yourself a copy if just for this section alone (although I think all five sections are incredible and a must read)!
Right before the invasion of the Capitol on January 6, 2021, the rioters stood with defamed Christian images and 'prayers' were lifted. I agree with Ritchie when he states, "I felt grieved that images of the name of my Savior were displayed alongside this spectacle of nihilistic division and death" (4). This book, and the commandments from Christ articulated throughout this book, are the urgent call to Christians across our nation, and across the globe, to resist the demonic powers of nationalism and to once again devote our hearts, minds, and actions fully to Christ. Amen!
This book is deeply relevant, contextual, and a must read for the perilous time in which we live in the United States. Ritchie asks the question ALL people who call themselves Christians need to ask: who do we serve/pledge our allegiance? Christ? Or the United States?
'Why do the Nations Rage? The Demonic Origin of Nationalism' by David Ritchie is a contextual and relevant unpacking of the idolatrous and demonic power of nationalism, particularly in how it has co-opted a façade of Christianity to justify itself. Ritchie shows that christian nationalism is a paradoxical identity because "nationalism involves the exaltation of a nation (or a particular conception of a nation) to the highest place of allegiance, concern, and devotion, [thus] it is essentially idolatrous" (6). Nationalism cannot be Christian because it is inherently idolatrous. Furthermore, Ritchie shows that while the January 6, 2021 Capitol Riot is a contemporary manifestation of nationalism, nationalism has ancient roots and is generally demonic: "when examined through the lens of biblically demonology, you will discover that there is little distinction between the ancient pagan's worship of national patron deity and the contemporary nationalist's tendency to exalt a particular nation to a place of functional divinity" (6). As a result, Ritchie argues that "nationalism-not atheism, not new age spiritualism, nor any other traditional world faith-is the greatest religious rival to the Christian gospel that vies for the worship of [God's] people....seek[ing] to conquer Christianity, or...to co-opt Christianity for its own purposes" (6).
Ritchie accomplishes this goal through five sections in this book.
The first section carefully describes how the New Testament writings of Paul use the terms 'powers,' 'principalities,' 'authorities,' and other terms to describe "spiritual beings that are personal in nature and exert corporate influence over groups of people....and geographical territories" (9), including 'nations.'
Ritchie then summarizes these demonic 'spiritual beings' under the umbrella term 'powers' and explains how these 'powers' were the reason why the God of the Old Testament/New Testament condemned 'pagan nations' and 'national patron deities' in the second section.
In the third section, Ritchie shows that Christ has defeated all demonic forces of evil through his life, death, and resurrection. Thus, Christ has not only defeated our reliance upon the 'powers,' but has commanded us to resist these powers. Christians cannot simply ignore or turn a blind eye to the idolatry of nationalism, but we must name, denounce, and resist the evils of nationalism through primacy of devotion to Christ and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit.
In order to accurately name the evils of nationalism today, so that Christians can denounce and resist them, section four describes how nationalism has co-opted a façade of Christianity and created a systematic theology of nationalism" (93). In short, this theology of nationalism primarily "stands against the first commandment and the Christian understanding of God as the one to whom highest praise and devotion belongs...[through] the belief that 'loyalty to the nation overrides all other loyalties'" (95). Some modern examples include the symbols of "Columbia (or Freedom) as the patron goddess of the United States....flags function[ing] beyond a mere identifying symbol of a nation, and instead having been imbued with sacred significance and accorded ritualistic worship"(97), the pledge of allegiance in schools, national art that uses Christian imagery, ascribing messianic characteristics to politicians, manifest destiny, and ascribing 'right Christian belief' to stances, beliefs, and platforms of politicians or political parties. As Ritchie explains, "the term 'Christian nationalist' is just as oxymoronic as 'Yahwist Baal worshiper.' When Christianity mixes with nationalism, the sum of this syncretism yields only nationalism....For this reason, Christians must have no part in nationalism" (122).
In the fifth and final section, Ritchie provides tangible ways for Christians to resist the demonic powers of nationalism. First, ministry leaders must confront nationalism head-on in their ecclesial spaces (125). Ritchie provides very practical and tangible Christ-centered responses to the pitfalls and lies of nationalism. This was my favorite section of the book and I'd recommend snagging yourself a copy if just for this section alone (although I think all five sections are incredible and a must read)!
Right before the invasion of the Capitol on January 6, 2021, the rioters stood with defamed Christian images and 'prayers' were lifted. I agree with Ritchie when he states, "I felt grieved that images of the name of my Savior were displayed alongside this spectacle of nihilistic division and death" (4). This book, and the commandments from Christ articulated throughout this book, are the urgent call to Christians across our nation, and across the globe, to resist the demonic powers of nationalism and to once again devote our hearts, minds, and actions fully to Christ. Amen!
August 7, 2022
Book Report and Reflections
on
Why Do Nations Rage?
The Demonic Origins of Nationalism
by
David A. Ritchie
Feast of the Transfiguration
Luke 9:28–36
https://covers.logoscdn.com/lls_1.0.7...
https://covers.logoscdn.com/lls_1.0.7... Standard Version https://biblia.com/public/images/arro...
The Transfiguration
28 dNow about eight days after these sayings he took with him ePeter and John and James and fwent up on the mountain to pray. 29 And as he was praying, the appearance of his face was galtered, and hhis clothing became dazzling white. 30 And behold, two men were talking with him, Moses and Elijah, 31 who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure,2 which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 Now Peter and those who were with him iwere heavy with sleep, but when they became fully awake jthey saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. 33 And as the men were parting from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here. Let us make three ktents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah”—lnot knowing what he said. 34 As he was saying these things, ma cloud came and overshadowed them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. 35 And ma voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, nmy Chosen One;3 olisten to him!” 36 And when the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. pAnd they kept silent and told no one in those days anything of what they had seen.
On the 77th anniversary of atom bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
Carl Jung put it this way:
“Humanity is involved in a new responsibility. He can no longer wriggle out of it on the plea of his littleness and nothingness, for the dark God has slipped the atom bomb and chemical weapons into his hands and given him the power to empty out the apocalyptic vials of wrath on his fellow creatures. Since he has been granted an almost godlike power, he can no longer remain blind and unconscious. He must know something of God’s nature and of metaphysical processes if he is to understand himself…and the divine. “
----------------------------------------
Today on the Feast of Transfiguration we celebrate Jesus being transfigured with the power of God surrounding him, and his three disciples Peter, James, and John present. And then calling them to go back down the mountain into the reality of life. A reality of violence, that will lead to the crucifixion of Jesus, and their brutal experiences to come.
Today the Atomic Bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, killing countless civilians. It was an example of a demonic presence in the world.
David Ritchie takes us through the Bible showing the presence of the demonic in the history of Israel, but more particularly humanity.
Nationalism, as seen most explicitly on January 6, 2021, is demonic for it separates and flames the fire of racism and disunity of all people. It was violent and hurts others. Jesus tells us to love God, and our neighbor.
Anthony D. Smith has observed that the notion of sacred nationalism furnishes:
a. a belief in an ethnic election,
b. an attachment to a sacred territory, sanctified by the saints, heroes, and sages.
c. shared memories of a golden age.
d. and the cult of the "glorious dead" and
their self-sacrifice.
The author concludes with a framework for confronting nationalism as a false gospel in I Timothy 4:1-2:
"I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the words, be ready in season and out of season, reprove, rebuke, and exhort with complete patience and teaching (I Timothy 4:1-2).
The Gospel of Jesus is summed up in his great commandment: "Thou shalt love the Lord your God, with all of your mind strength and soul, and thy neighbor as thyself.
We can love each other, and not like another, and we love by treating all people with respect, without discrimination because of race, creed, or money. We take care of each other. Deo Gratias! Thanks be to God!
=========================
Fr. River Damien Sims, sfw, D.Min., D.S.T.
P.O. Box 642656
San Francisco, CA 94164
www.temenos.org
March 1, 2022
Why do the Nations Rage? is an attempt to determine the spiritual sources of nationalism, both worldwide throughout history and in contemporary America. The journey is an interesting one, although the writing is more academic than my usual fare.
Before I begin, it's important to note that the author clearly distinguishes nationalism from patriotism, making it clear that he is not advocating anti-Americanism or anarchy. Ritchie explains patriotism as good citizenship that unites people for the common good, an idea that stands in stark contrast to the nationalism that divides along political lines and creates an "us-and-them" mentality. While today's hardline fundamentalists have actually attempted to make the U.S. into something it has never been - a new chosen people - the author cautions us to look to the clear message of the Bible: The only "new Israel" is the church, comprised of people from EVERY nation and people group around the world. While the United States has been blessed, our prosperity itself is not the Biblical Gospel. The Gospel is the good news of salvation in Jesus, God's Son, who died in our place to bring salvation from sin and citizenship in the Kingdom of God.
While the author bases all of his arguments solidly in the Bible (which I appreciate), I had hoped for more Biblical evidence of the spiritual "powers" at work. Some of the proofs presented are not as convincing or as clear as I would like. In a sense, I suppose that's a good thing. If the proofs were hard and fast, I think I would have to question the author's research. For me, this is evidence that Ritchie is not putting forth an agenda, but only presenting what he has found. (Generally, when people come out with novel ideas or "eye-opening" surprises, they have departed from the clear teachings of the Bible and wandered into the realm of speculation.)
I found Part IV especially interesting, as it presented evidence of nationalism in modern times, clearly illustrating links to ancient paganism. Some of the examples cited hit close to home when the author brings out examples from U.S. national monuments and government buildings. Artwork that places George Washington among gods and goddesses clearly conveys religious messages and places human political leaders in a place of worship and reverence where they do not belong.
The book is well researched, and I found it interesting that the author had read documentation on the other side (from those who endorse U.S. nationalism). That fact alone gives additional credence to the author's thoughts, as he presents arguments against some of the more prominent contemporary nationalist ideas. He did not approach this topic in a vacuum, but after considering opposing views. I hope that some of the authors referenced take the time to read this work.
In the end, Ritchie makes a compelling case that support for the current nationalistic trend cannot be supported Biblically and that Bible-believing Jesus-followers have a higher citizenship in heaven that needs to clearly surpass our loyalty to any nation on earth. Thank you for taking on such an important topic, Mr. Ritchie.
Before I begin, it's important to note that the author clearly distinguishes nationalism from patriotism, making it clear that he is not advocating anti-Americanism or anarchy. Ritchie explains patriotism as good citizenship that unites people for the common good, an idea that stands in stark contrast to the nationalism that divides along political lines and creates an "us-and-them" mentality. While today's hardline fundamentalists have actually attempted to make the U.S. into something it has never been - a new chosen people - the author cautions us to look to the clear message of the Bible: The only "new Israel" is the church, comprised of people from EVERY nation and people group around the world. While the United States has been blessed, our prosperity itself is not the Biblical Gospel. The Gospel is the good news of salvation in Jesus, God's Son, who died in our place to bring salvation from sin and citizenship in the Kingdom of God.
While the author bases all of his arguments solidly in the Bible (which I appreciate), I had hoped for more Biblical evidence of the spiritual "powers" at work. Some of the proofs presented are not as convincing or as clear as I would like. In a sense, I suppose that's a good thing. If the proofs were hard and fast, I think I would have to question the author's research. For me, this is evidence that Ritchie is not putting forth an agenda, but only presenting what he has found. (Generally, when people come out with novel ideas or "eye-opening" surprises, they have departed from the clear teachings of the Bible and wandered into the realm of speculation.)
I found Part IV especially interesting, as it presented evidence of nationalism in modern times, clearly illustrating links to ancient paganism. Some of the examples cited hit close to home when the author brings out examples from U.S. national monuments and government buildings. Artwork that places George Washington among gods and goddesses clearly conveys religious messages and places human political leaders in a place of worship and reverence where they do not belong.
The book is well researched, and I found it interesting that the author had read documentation on the other side (from those who endorse U.S. nationalism). That fact alone gives additional credence to the author's thoughts, as he presents arguments against some of the more prominent contemporary nationalist ideas. He did not approach this topic in a vacuum, but after considering opposing views. I hope that some of the authors referenced take the time to read this work.
In the end, Ritchie makes a compelling case that support for the current nationalistic trend cannot be supported Biblically and that Bible-believing Jesus-followers have a higher citizenship in heaven that needs to clearly surpass our loyalty to any nation on earth. Thank you for taking on such an important topic, Mr. Ritchie.
December 20, 2023
Why Do the Nations Rage? is a book that I knew would be challenging to process, simply because my impression is that for some Christians, patriotism and faith can seemingly go hand in hand. David A. Ritchie unpacks the semantics around patriotism and nationalism to reveal how nationalism takes a further step than patriotism to become its own religion, supplanting Christ under the guise of "Christian nationalism." This rich volume is broken up into several sections, starting with the problems that Christians face when nationalism seeps into the church, followed by a biblical and theological analysis of what nationalism and the concept of "nations" looked like in Old Testament and New Testament times. The book ends with a look at the Christology of nationalism and what Christians and churches can do today to combat the hidden darkness that pervades the doctrine of nationalism.
I confess that it is easy to look at examples where Christians conflate their nationality or citizenship with their worship of God and to distance myself from it. What this book does is that it takes an examination of nationalism one step further to examine the powers behind them and why it is that we can be susceptible to this form of syncretism. In the end, it is not difficult for any Christian of any nationality to fall victim to the ideology that the nation is our sole or primary ruler. Canadians are by no means exempt, and this book outlines some of the hazards of succumbing to nationalism, such as the alienation of those whom we do not view as belonging to "our nation" alongside entrenched polarization of political ideologies. Ritchie's warning for Christian pastors and leaders is a clarion call that churches should not idly sit by while nationalism destroys the Gospel and uses it for its own means. The Christian witness is at stake, even if we think we can distance ourselves. This book's central claim is that, "Nationalism is not only a form of idolatry; it is also a demonically fueled false gospel that stands in opposition to Christ and his church." Since darkness can have nothing to do with light, this book is an urgent appeal for Christians to separate themselves from the notion that salvation can result from any political system or national power. Ultimately, it is God's kingdom alone that we must seek. This biblically grounded book brings to light the spiritual reality behind the powers and principalities of this world and is a must-read for Christians who are interested in the topic of church and state.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
I confess that it is easy to look at examples where Christians conflate their nationality or citizenship with their worship of God and to distance myself from it. What this book does is that it takes an examination of nationalism one step further to examine the powers behind them and why it is that we can be susceptible to this form of syncretism. In the end, it is not difficult for any Christian of any nationality to fall victim to the ideology that the nation is our sole or primary ruler. Canadians are by no means exempt, and this book outlines some of the hazards of succumbing to nationalism, such as the alienation of those whom we do not view as belonging to "our nation" alongside entrenched polarization of political ideologies. Ritchie's warning for Christian pastors and leaders is a clarion call that churches should not idly sit by while nationalism destroys the Gospel and uses it for its own means. The Christian witness is at stake, even if we think we can distance ourselves. This book's central claim is that, "Nationalism is not only a form of idolatry; it is also a demonically fueled false gospel that stands in opposition to Christ and his church." Since darkness can have nothing to do with light, this book is an urgent appeal for Christians to separate themselves from the notion that salvation can result from any political system or national power. Ultimately, it is God's kingdom alone that we must seek. This biblically grounded book brings to light the spiritual reality behind the powers and principalities of this world and is a must-read for Christians who are interested in the topic of church and state.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
September 17, 2022
David is a well-educated pastor at Redeemer Christian Church in Amarillo. More importantly for my purposes, David is one of my former students. David has always been among the smarter individuals in any room and I expected an intelligent treatise on this subject, and indeed that is what I found. Using scripture from Old Testament and New, David establishes that Nationalism, by promoting the nation and/or national leaders as idols and objects of worship, is sin. It is a rival religion that competes with our loyalty to our God. I agree. Here’s the question I had as I read this book: everyone I know who I would say has fallen into the “sin of Nationalism” would read this book and say “Absolutely, Pastor David. Preach it! You tell ‘em!” And would have no idea the book is about them. How do we get people to understand they are engaging in this sin? I mentioned this to my brother and he said “so, it’s just like all other sins.” Ok, good point. Anyway, good book.
March 6, 2022
Pastor David Ritchie displays a biblical and rational argument for how Nationalism isn't just a sociological phenomenon of our time but a historical, spiritual power that possesses the consciousness and bolsters the aspirations of nations, cultures, and communities.
Ritchie makes a case for why Nationalism doesn't just present a risk to the local church but is, in fact, a rival religion to Christianity. With a scholar's understanding and pastor's heart, David Ritchie writes a book that many will refer back to many years from now.
Ritchie makes a case for why Nationalism doesn't just present a risk to the local church but is, in fact, a rival religion to Christianity. With a scholar's understanding and pastor's heart, David Ritchie writes a book that many will refer back to many years from now.
July 2, 2022
For the layperson, this may be a bit too academic. That said, I was still able to glean important information. While I did not perhaps see all of the "demonic" symbolism, I did find the author made important points about nationalism as a religion and as idolatry. For those steeped in theology, this would be an even more productive read. Thanks to LibraryThing and the Publisher for an ARC.
December 26, 2023
As an evangelical pastor, I have seen the destruction caused by Christian Nationalism in the American Church. I found this book to be helpful in understanding the spiritual nature of American Christian Nationalism and how it is distorting the witness of the church today.
April 29, 2022
Good theology but bad / overly simplistic application to today's insane problems
September 18, 2022
I recommend everyone should read this!!
December 31, 2022
This book challenged me and changed my perspective for the better. I highly recommend this book during these politically charged times.
October 13, 2023
Thoughtful look at nationalism in its many forms over the years and how it relates to Biblical Christianity. Considers extensively what Paul meant when writing about the "powers".
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews