Strange Worship, Faithful Witness: A Book Club Conversation on Resisting Christian Nationalism

hristian nationalism poses a growing threat to both democratic life and the church’s public witness. This February, the Spirited Book Club at Spirit in the Desert invites participants into a thoughtful, faithful conversation grounded in Scripture, theology, and Christian practice. Learn more and register here.

The book club’s next gathering will focus on Strange Worship: Six Steps for Challenging Christian Nationalism by Drew J. Strait, a pastor-theologian and scholar whose work centers on political idolatry, peacemaking, and nonviolent Christian witness.

📅 Thursday, February 26

🕒 3:00–4:00 pm Arizona (MST) | 2:00 pm Pacific

🎙 Facilitated by Sheri Brown

In Strange Worship, Strait argues that Christian nationalism is not simply a political problem, but a theological one—a form of distorted worship that confuses allegiance to nation with allegiance to God. Rather than focusing only on definitions or history, the book offers six practical steps congregations and individuals can take to resist political idolatry, counter violent extremism, disrupt dominion theology, and address the isolation and fear that often fuel radicalization.

Drawing from biblical studies, theology, and peace and security studies, Strait invites Christians to imagine worship that forms communities of courage, humility, and justice. His ecumenical background—shaped by Catholic, Methodist, Evangelical, Reformed, and Anabaptist traditions—brings a wide-angled, bridge-building approach that resonates across denominational lines.

The book includes a foreword by Amanda Tyler, Executive Director of Christians Against Christian Nationalism, and has been widely praised for offering hopeful, concrete tools for faithful resistance grounded in the way of Jesus.

For Lutherans committed to the gospel’s call to love neighbor, seek justice, and bear public witness without coercion or fear, this conversation offers timely formation and encouragement. Rostered ministers, lay leaders, and all who care about the church’s role in a polarized society are warmly invited.

👉 Learn more and register through Spirit in the Desert’s event page.