I found myself earlier this year in the midst of a study involving Bonhoeffer’s Discipleship, the Book of Revelation, and White Christian Nationalism. It’s a weird intersection, but I was deep into some notes and rewriting those notes when this book came along. I would like to say I’m off the hook with my project. I fear I am not (at least where the Spirit is leading me, at any rate).

Nevertheless, read Tim Alberta’s book because it has far more research and experience. And, it’s in print right now.

The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism by Tim Alberta

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Yet again, a book comes out right after I think of an idea for a book. I’m glad Tim Alberta wrote this one because I dread it. To hit Christian Nationalism head on like Alberta took the research and resources of a true journalist and Alberta was the person for the task. He was also the person for the task because the evangelical world is/was his world. He grew up in that atmosphere, in as close to a hermetically sealed environment as one could get.

And he broke out. PLUS, he gives testimony that while he broke out of that subculture he remains faithful to Christ. This is the testimony of a warrior.

For my generation, and my experience, I am deeply appreciative of the kindness Alberta shows to his dad. He points out the errors his dad made, but he speaks with kindness and respect as well.

I wish I could call this a “refreshing” read. It is nasty stuff because the white conservative American Church is a hot mess right now. There are glimpses of hope and I am glad to read of those pockets where change is coming. I am not alone.




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