PCA Establishes Ad Interim Committee to Study Christian Nationalism and Related Teachings

The Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) has taken a step toward addressing internal theological and doctrinal questions by establishing an ad interim committee on “Christian Nationalism.” This decision was made during the PCA’s 52nd General Assembly, where an overture was passed to form the committee. The overture was prompted by concerns over the interpretation of the Westminster Confession of Faith (WCF), specifically the 1647 version, and its relationship to the American version of the WCF (1788), which the PCA adopted. The committee is tasked with examining whether the 1647 WCF can be considered “Christian Nationalist” and whether “Christian Nationalism” and “Ethno-Nationalism” are closely related or at least compatible. The overture also highlights that these issues have led to confusion and division within PCA congregations and among its pastors and officers.

The debate over Christian Nationalism is not new, but the PCA’s decision to form a committee reflects a growing interest in reconciling historic Reformed thought with contemporary political and social issues. This conversation is part of a broader movement within Protestant intellectual circles known as “Ressourcement,” which seeks to retrieve and apply older theological traditions to modern contexts. Some theologians and scholars argue that there may be valuable insights in historic Reformed teachings that could inform current discussions on social and political matters.

Stephen Wolfe’s book *The Case for Christian Nationalism* (Canon Press, 2022) has played a significant role in shaping this discussion. Wolfe, a political theorist, explores the idea of the “principle of similarity,” which suggests that people are naturally inclined to seek fellowship with those who share their cultural, linguistic, and ideological identity. He argues that this principle is not solely based on physical traits but rather on a shared “ethnos” that unites nations. While Wolfe acknowledges the complexity of defining who falls within this principle, he maintains that it is not equivalent to race or skin color but rather a combination of cultural and ideological factors.

The PCA’s committee is expected to provide pastoral guidance on how to address these theological and social questions within congregations, new members, and future church officers. This task requires careful consideration of both historical Reformed teachings and contemporary applications, ensuring that the PCA remains faithful to its theological heritage while engaging with modern challenges. The committee’s report will be an important resource for pastors and congregations navigating these complex issues.

As the committee begins its work, the PCA’s decision underscores the ongoing tension between tradition and modernity within Reformed theology. The questions raised by the overture reflect a desire to clarify doctrinal positions and promote unity within the denomination. The outcome of this inquiry may have implications not only for the PCA but also for broader conversations within the global Reformed community about the role of faith in public life and the interpretation of historic theological documents.

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