Brett Harper

Christian authoritarianism refers to the intersection of religious belief, particularly Christianity, with authoritarian political ideologies. It often involves a belief in a divinely ordained social order and a hierarchical authority structure, where religious leaders or a strong leader is seen as divinely appointed. This concept is closely linked to the rise of Christian nationalism, where religious identity is intertwined with national identity, and religious beliefs are used to justify political actions and policies. 

• Religious Authority:. Christian authoritarianism often involves the belief that God has ordained certain social structures and hierarchies, and that individuals are obligated to obey those in positions of authority, whether religious or political. 
• Christian Nationalism:. This is a key component, where national identity is defined through a Christian lens, and religious beliefs are used to promote a specific vision of national purpose and values. This can lead to the exclusion of those who do not share the dominant religious beliefs. 
• Fundamentalism:. A belief in the inerrancy of religious texts and the need to uphold traditional values can fuel authoritarian tendencies. This often leads to a rigid adherence to specific interpretations of religious doctrine and a resistance to change. 
• Social Order: Christian authoritarianism often seeks to establish a strict social order based on religious principles, which can include specific views on family, gender roles, and other aspects of life. This can lead to policies that restrict individual freedoms and promote a certain way of life. 
• Political Action:. Christian authoritarianism can manifest in political activism and the promotion of specific policies that align with religious beliefs. This can include efforts to influence legislation, challenge social norms, and support candidates who share their worldview. 

Examples and Connections:

• Some studies suggest that apocalyptic religious views, support for “Seven Mountains” theology, and the idea of America being a promised land for European Christians are strongly linked to both Christian nationalism and authoritarianism. 
• Christian authoritarianism is not necessarily limited to specific religious denominations, but can be found across different Christian traditions, particularly those with strong fundamentalist or conservative tendencies. 
• The concept of theocracy, where religious leaders hold political power, is also a related idea, as it involves the direct integration of religious authority into the governing structure. 

In essence, Christian authoritarianism refers to a political and social ideology that integrates religious beliefs into a framework of hierarchical authority and strict social order. It can be a powerful force in shaping political discourse and influencing social policies, often leading to tensions with those who hold different views or value individual freedoms. 

“Evangelicals often view their relationship with Jesus as needing to “defend” the patriarchal family and heteronormative marriages. Their banners at political rallies speak of “protecting our children” from the harms of LGBTQ people and ideology.

Paradoxically, Evangelicals may not want to use democracy as the means for suppressing Black and LGBTQ rights. Rather, they would like an authoritarian figure (e.g., the Supreme Court) to mandate the Evangelical worldview.”

“Some traditionalist Evangelical Christians believe they “stand for Jesus” by ensuring that there are laws that conform Americans to the regulations specified in their bible. They view themselves locked in a battle of good versus evil. And who better to lead the charge (now that John Wayne is gone) than an authoritarian President Trump?

In summary, many Evangelicals are tired of being “bullied” by liberal press and policies. They are sick of BLM and Woke. They want to restrict abortions and LGBTQ rights. And they want an authoritarian leader to use his power to return American back to being a Christian nation.”

– https://medium.com/backyard-theology/christian-authoritarianism-85eb292fbd2b

I have had my own experiences growing up with Christian authoritarian parents. My dad was a parole and probation officer, right wing, Christian, Baptist, who beat his kids, especially me, yelled a lot, was strict and authoritarian. He was also racist and talked about how we needed to deport people. Maybe most people haven’t been shipped off to a Christian fascist boarding school in the middle of Missouri like me or seen or heard the things I have from these authoritarian Christians. That’s why I encourage you to check out my books and realize that Christian fascism isn’t threatening America, its here and its destroying it. We must all stand together against Christian authoritarianism or we will all fall together.