In recent years the phrase “Christian nationalism” has been widely used to describe evangelical partisan participation in politics. The presence of Christian imagery and language in the attack on our nation’s capital, January 6, 2021, added to the perception that evangelical political engagement is a toxic blend of Christianity and nationalism. We cannot ignore the sad truth that this perception directly affects our ability to create a credible and compelling witness of the gospel in our communities.

What is Christian nationalism? Are there good and bad versions of Christian nationalism? What is the difference between Christian nationalism and patriotism? Is nationalism itself compatible with Christian faith? Should Christianity enjoy a favored political status in the United States, and does such favoritism advance the cause of the gospel? Is it the mission of the Church to create a “Christian” nation? Why are certain expressions of Christian nationalism grounded in white supremacy, anti-Semitism, and racism? How should pastors and ministry leaders respond to this influential way of thinking? Join us for critical presentations and conversations about these questions and how they affect our testimony of the gospel.

Conference Speakers

Dr. Samuel L. Perry

Samuel L. Perry is Professor of Sociology at the University of Oklahoma. A Texas native, Dr. Perry graduated top of his class from Dallas Theological Seminary in 2008 with a ThM in New Testament Studies. He then went on to earn his PhD in Sociology at the University of Chicago in 2015. Dr. Perry has won numerous awards for his scholarship and teaching in the areas of religion, race, and politics. In addition to over 100 peer-reviewed articles in academic journals, Dr. Perry is also the author or co-author of five books, including the award-winning Taking America Back for God: Christian Nationalism in the United States (with Andrew Whitehead) and The Flag and the Cross: White Christian Nationalism and the Threat to American Democracy (with Philip Gorski). He recently finished his fifth book entitled Religion for Realists: Why We All Need The Scientific Study of Religion—Now More Than Ever. He and his wife Jill have been married 20 years and have three wonderful children.

Rev. David A. Ritchie

David A. Ritchie was born and raised in West Texas, where he now lives with his wife, Kate, and three sons.

After several years of working in college and young adult ministry, he became the Lead Pastor of Redeemer Christian Church in Amarillo, Texas, where he ministered for over a decade. He serves as a board member for numerous ministries and non-profits, including the Redeemer Network and the Refugee Language Project. In addition to his pastoral role, Ritchie is also an Instructor of Religion at West Texas A&M University, where he teaches courses in biblical studies.

In 2022, David A. Ritchie published Why Do the Nations Rage? The Demonic Origin of Nationalism with Wipf & Stock. He has presented his scholarly work as a panelist at the American Academy of Religion, a lecturer at South African Theological Seminary, and an instructor for the Mending Division Academy with the American Values Coalition. 

Ritchie’s research and writing on Christian nationalism derives not only from a scholarly interest but also a deep pastoral concern for the Christian church and its enduring witness.

Dr. Ryan Tafilowski

Ryan Tafilowski, assistant professor of theology and chair of the Theology Department, holds a PhD in systematic theology, a master’s in theology in history from the University of Edinburgh, and a bachelor’s degree in biblical studies from Colorado Christian University. Prior to joining the faculty at Denver Seminary, Tafilowski served as an adjunct professor and as an adjunct professor of theology at Colorado Christian University, and postgraduate instructor in theology and ecclesiastical history at the University of Edinburgh. He serves as the lead pastor at Foothills Fellowship Church in Denver and as Theologian-in-Residence at the Denver Institute for Faith and Work

Contact:
Jason Woodman, Director of Public Engagement for The Gospel Initiative, is available before, during, and after the event to answer questions.