Apr
9
2009
America…Christian Nation?
Author: pastoroffishingOk, first I am going to use this as my definition of nation as per Wikipedia:
A nation is a cultural and social community. In as much as most members never meet each other, yet feel a common bond, it may be considered an imagined community. One of the most influential doctrines in Western Europe and the Western hemisphere since the late eighteenth century is that all humans are divided into groups called nations.[nb 1] Nationhood is an ethical and philosophical doctrine and is the starting point for the ideology of nationalism; a nation is a form of self-defined cultural and social community. Members of a “nation” share a common identity, and usually a common origin, in the sense of history, ancestry, parentage or descent. A nation extends across generations, and includes the dead as full members. Past events are framed in this context: for example, by referring to “our soldiers” in conflicts which took place hundreds of years ago. More vaguely, nations are assumed to include future generations.
Is America a Christian Nation? Part of me really wants to say yes just to throw down in the mix of it all. I read alot of things that makes me think we are…now do we do it well? No but it seems that our nation was founded on the concept of Christian principles. We created an acccepting nation that welcomes people in. We have a mentality and spirit of the Golden Rule. Governmental buildings used to have biblical speech on them as well as using the Bible to solidfy the concept of telling the truth.
80-85% of the nation align themselves with Christianity. This begins to make me think that it is an affiliation more than a belief. I feel that American is a more Christian biased nation. It is a place that Christians are much more accepted than others of faith. It is also a nation that Christians have created alienation to the other religions and fringe groups.
In the end America is overall affiliated and aligned with Christianity. We wouldn’t have this stereotype for nothing in the world. Do we really look like Christ? No. Not at all, but I think within the nation the people of our country do think that American is Christian. God Bless America? The song that just shows our Christian affiliation.
Our past has Christian roots, I don’t see other religions having such a cultural impact as I do Christianity. Only until recently did the Fundamentalists gain power and influence that showed the negative of Christianity. The alienation of people and a overall elitist attitude.
Today, our nation is changing to a spiritual nation of monotheism. We are acknowledging God and mostly affiliate with Christianity, but there is a greater gain of influence of other religions. As time goes on according of the definition of Nation we have to look at the past, present and future.
In the end I think American started out with this Christian alignment but now it is straying more and more, its stuck in this religious identity. It wants to use spritual influence within its ceremonies and laws, yet wants to be inclusive. In the end it could become the downfall to the nation? No identity with religion?
Eh, anyways that’s my two cents.
Oh, just another thought…did the capitalistic society of America align itself with Christianity because it sells well? Just another thought…Saw that on another post somewhere…
