Published on March 2, 2024, 1:36 am

A few days ago, a buzzword emerged in the media: “Christian nationalism”. This concept was recently discussed on MSNBC’s “All In With Chris Hayes” where Politico writer, Heidi Przybyla delved into the perceived notion of an “extremist element of conservative Christians” within Donald Trump’s circles. Przybyla suggested that these groups were misrepresenting “natural law” to push back abortion rights and other progressive policies. The crux of the argument was that these so-called “Christian nationalists” purportedly believe that our rights as humans and Americans don’t derive from any earthly authority.

As many critics already argue, one could mistake this description of “Christian nationalism” for the assertion made about American liberty in the Declaration of Independence – stating essentially every individual is endowed with certain inalienable rights. This philosophy is not novel; it’s as old as ancient Greece. It serves as a cornerstone for America, recognizing that God-given freedoms are beyond the state’s control to give or take.

Though there exists a fringe spectrum of Christians harboring ideals conflated with politics and faith or harboring theocratic notions, labeling their beliefs as ‘Christian nationalism’ might be misleading. Given Przybyla’s definition lines up perfectly with what makes America itself possible, the term seems misplaced.

Further, if we truly believe in natural rights being unalienable, how can governments manufacture new (positive) “rights?” How can there be a right to housing, healthcare or even unconditional free birth control? And following this logic further complicates how we deal with those individuals who might exploit due process and freedom of expression for ill intentions — a topic President Joe Biden often touches upon when discussing gun laws claiming no right is absolute.

Surprisingly, Przybyla acknowledged that historically there have been commendable instances of “natural law” usage but staunchly held that using it to advocate for causes detested by the left such as protecting unborn lives amounted to “Christian nationalism”.

A less observed facet of this conversation is that the “Christian nationalism” fear might be a politically charged attempt to perturb non-Christian voters. For secular Americans, it might sound completely absurd to consider rights being awarded by a non-earthly authority. Even me, as a nonbeliever, been often asked about how I can believe in natural rights despite my skepticism towards God.

The logic behind it isn’t complex: Just like anyone else, irreligious individuals hold believing in wrongfulness of stealing, cheating and murder – they also have an inherent right for free speech and self-defense. History and inherent human conscience propel the belief in such rights that ultimately benefit every individual and mankind collectively.

The bottom line is that liberties born of centuries-old traditions are more significant than fleeting democratic opinions and state commands—it’s clear-cut to me at least. Despite not needing academic credentials in philosophy to understand why life and freedom of expression are universally self-evident rights – unlike expected public welfare offerings like reproductive justice – it aids in acknowledging essential freedoms.

As John Locke stated (although he believed all laws were instilled divinely), even if I don’t believe my rights were granted by a higher power, I conduct myself as if they were – acknowledging that this is the best way for upholding constitutional principles. My own adherence to a Christian worldview does not necessitate any other evidence or reason beyond these irrefutable truths.

In conclusion, today’s trusted news revealing concerns over “Christian nationalism” reflects not merely an apprehension but rather paints an inaccurate picture regarding the legitimacy of conservative Christians practicing their faith while engaging with politics actively ensuring real news serves balanced insights into these complex discussions.