Unlearning Christian Nationalism

Dave the Librarian A valuable addition to the literature on deconstruction Unlearning Christianity describes many of the angst-driven problems that have emerged over recent decades with a focus on Christian Nationalism. Theological deficiencies in the model are included, as well as a historical overview that traces back to Constantine in the Fourth Century. The discussion of using the Lord's name in vain in the context of the Hebrew word ""Shav."" Appendices include the uses of the word, which includes much more than the use of a particular word. The emptiness that comes from misapplying God to one's political decisions becomes clear, whether the application is to Crusade that results in slaughtering women and children or seeking to destroy neighbors who are of a different race or other characteristic. The book resonates with much of my experience and reflects some of what I have faced. Like Eubanks, I have changed some of my affiliations. Unlearning Christianity provides a game plan for next steps... Sankie L. Unique Perspective in the Love of Christ ...Todd's use of the provocative, which may be too raw for some, is not pointing people to a ""deconstruction"" and leaving the faith and Jesus. But instead, a wake-up call, albeit a slap-in-the-face wake-up call, that reveals the semi-recent events and cultural reactivity as needing a more extreme voice. Again, he knows this might be potentially rejected by some leaders in the church. But his goal is not abandoning Christ nor the church. He's not merely trying to write to pastors-he's writing also to those who are ""outsiders"" or who have deconstructed their faith/church attendance-but truly do love Jesus and all He's done on our account. His concern is the strong uptick in polarization, growing hatred and weaponization by professing believers, political and power abuses, social media attacks, non-Biblical bloggers and influencers posing as spiritual leaders misleading literally millions towards no love, no compassion, no care, no grace, no mercy, no gospel-just attack and destroy in the name of 'Merica-NOT Christ... From the beginning sentences of Chapter 1, many people are going to have difficulty listening to the message Todd brings out. But it is a message that needs to be heard-especially by those who profess to be believers. So read it chapter by chapter. Pause, contemplate what he's actually saying-not one or two offensive lines you were halted by because your pastor has never stated it that way. Stay in there. Read it prayerfully. Ask the Spirit for eyes to see and ears to hear. Pass it on to others. Jesse Must READ- MUST share This book was surprisingly refreshing and reaffirming - for ALL. Growing up a lifelong Christian and church goer, living in the South, I found myself at a crossroads/conflict as an adult working in public health and human services and reconciling my faith with current political posturing of ""Christian Nationalism"". This book touches on all of that and more. Written in a storytelling tone, relatable and 100% on the nose. Read it. Send a copy to your friends, neighbor and old K-life leader ASAP!