God and Country Upholding Faith, History, and National Identity

by Wilsey, John D.; Quinn, Benjamin T.

• ISBN13: 9781087783048
• ISBN10: 1087783046
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2026-02-01
• Publisher: B&H Academic
• More Book Details

Summary

Is nationalism always a threat to Christian faith? In God and Country: Upholding Faith, History, and National Identity, John D. Wilsey argues that nationalism is a complex phenomenon with varied expressions, some dangerously opposed to Christianity, others potentially compatible with a biblical worldview. Wilsey demonstrates how nationalism can become a surrogate religion, even cloaking itself in Christian language, and illustrates that this danger isn't confined to one side of the political spectrum.  

Examining the unique conditions that have fostered different forms of religiously-infused nationalism in America, this book surveys the origins and pitfalls of nationalism, offering a biblically grounded framework for thinking about God and country. Wilsey provides a crucial perspective for Christians seeking to navigate the treacherous waters of contemporary public discourse and love their nation without falling prey to its most dangerous excesses. 

Author Biography

John D. Wilsey (PhD, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) is Professor of Church History and Philosophy and Chair of the Department of Church History and Historical Theology at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. 

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments 
Introduction: History’s Enduring Presence 

Chapter 1: A Biblical Rationale for the Study of the Past 
Chapter 2: Practical Historical Thinking: Change and Context 
Chapter 3: Practical Historical Thinking: Causality, Contingency, and Complexity 
Chapter 4: The Theological Virtues in Historical Thinking 
Chapter 5: The Classical Virtues in Historical Thinking 
Chapter 6: History and Rightly Ordered Patriotism 

Subject Index