La enfermedad del nacionalismo cristiano

Authors

• Joaquín Martinez, Southern Methodist University, PerkinsFollow

Abstract

This paper critically examines Christian nationalism as a distortion of the Christian faith, arguing that it is rooted in historical systems of oppression that can be traced back to the Doctrine of Discovery and early European colonial expansion. While often presented as a movement to restore a nation “for God,” Christian nationalism frequently aligns itself with political and economic interests that marginalize vulnerable communities. Drawing from theological reflection, particularly the frameworks of liberation theology and practical theology, this study proposes that the incarnation of Christ serves as a foundational model for understanding true Christian discipleship as one oriented toward justice, compassion, and solidarity with the oppressed. It further engages the theological principles of John Wesley—doing no harm, doing good, and staying in love with God—as a practical response to the challenges posed by Christian nationalism. By emphasizing intentional Christian education, active engagement in social justice, and a lived expression of faith grounded in love, the paper calls the Church to reclaim its prophetic voice. Ultimately, it argues that a faithful Christian response must resist the politicization of faith and instead embody a transformative practice that reflects the inclusive and liberating mission of Jesus Christ.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License

Recommended Citation

Martinez, Joaquín (2026) "La enfermedad del nacionalismo cristiano," Apuntes: Reflexiones teológicas desde el margen hispano: Vol. 42: No. 2, Article 4.
Available at: https://scholar.smu.edu/apuntes/vol42/iss2/4