In a recent social media post, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spotlighted a segment from CNN featuring Idaho pastor and theologian Douglas Wilson, who is known for his controversial views on Christian nationalism. The post included the phrase, “All of Christ for All of Life,” a slogan that encapsulates Wilson’s ideology.
Hegseth, an Army veteran and former host of “FOX & Friends Weekend,” attended one of Wilson’s church services in Washington, D.C., with his family. This visit raised eyebrows, as Wilson has been vocal about his desire for a theocratic governance model in the United States, alongside other contentious positions, such as advocating for the repeal of women’s suffrage and criminalizing homosexuality.
In an interview with CNN’s Pamela Brown earlier this year, Wilson asserted that every society is theocratic, arguing, “The only question is who’s ‘Theo’? In Saudi Arabia, Theo is Allah. In a secular democracy, it would be Demos, the people. In a Christian republic, it’d be Christ.” His comments reflect a belief that governance should be rooted in Christian principles, a view that has sparked considerable debate.
Wilson’s assertion that women should not have the right to vote is particularly alarming. He stated, "Women are the kind of people that people come out of," implying that the role of women is primarily reproductive. His comments have drawn criticism from various quarters, with many labeling his views as outdated and misogynistic.
Despite the backlash, Wilson remains steadfast in his beliefs. He speculated that a theocratic America might be “about 250 years” away, while denying labels such as white nationalist, fascist, or misogynist. In a previous interview with Tucker Carlson, Wilson embraced the title of Christian nationalist, emphasizing that it is the duty of preachers to spread the Gospel into the public sphere.
Hegseth’s relationship with Wilson goes beyond a simple endorsement. The two reportedly met in May at Hegseth’s church in Tennessee, and Hegseth has publicly praised Wilson’s book, My Life is Yours. Additionally, Hegseth is affiliated with a Tennessee church that is part of Wilson’s Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC) network.
In a notable incident at the Pentagon, Hegseth led a prayer that acknowledged Jesus as king, which prompted criticism from those who argued that such actions violate the U.S. Constitution’s separation of church and state. During the prayer, Hegseth sought divine wisdom and guidance, stating, "We come as sinners saved only by that grace, seeking your providence in our lives and in our nation." His invocation of Jesus in a government setting has raised questions about the role of faith in public service.
The intersection of faith and politics continues to be a hot topic, particularly as figures like Hegseth and Wilson gain prominence. As the dialogue surrounding Christian nationalism evolves, it remains crucial for Christians to engage thoughtfully and critically with these ideas. For further reading on the implications of Christian nationalism in America, you can explore resources from the Pew Research Center and The Gospel Coalition.
In a world where faith and politics often collide, the discussions surrounding figures like Hegseth and Wilson will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of American Christianity. Whether one agrees with their views or not, the conversations they spark are essential for understanding the future of faith in the public square.