### The Rise of the New Apostolic Reformation: A Threat to Democracy?
**By Stephanie McCrummen**
https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2025/02/new-apostolic-reformation-christian-movement-trump/681092/
In her thought-provoking article, *"The Army of God Comes Out of the Shadows,"* Stephanie McCrummen sheds light on the growing influence of the **New Apostolic Reformation (NAR)**, a charismatic Christian movement that has garnered the allegiance of tens of millions of American Christians. With its vision of dismantling the secular state and instituting a theocracy, the NAR is reshaping the political and cultural landscape of the United States.
### What is the New Apostolic Reformation?
The NAR is not a traditional religious organization but a decentralized movement characterized by:
- **Modern-Day Prophets and Apostles**: Believers who claim direct communication with God and provide “fresh revelations.”
- **Dominionism**: A theological concept that Christians are mandated to control society’s “Seven Mountains”: government, business, education, family, arts, media, and religion.
- **Spiritual Warfare**: The belief that demonic forces control individuals and institutions, necessitating prayer and action to reclaim them for God.
The movement is transnational, multiracial, and unapologetically political, drawing support from a wide range of Americans seeking purpose and divine alignment.
### The Movement’s Political Impact
The NAR has become a formidable political force, particularly during Donald Trump’s presidency, where he was viewed as a divine “wrecking ball” against secularism. Key political developments include:
- **Mobilization of Swing Voters**: Targeted efforts, such as Project 19, have influenced election outcomes in key counties.
- **Support for Authoritarian Policies**: The NAR champions anti-abortion laws, opposition to LGBTQ+ rights, and a rollback of social justice programs, aligning itself with broader Christian right goals.
- **Integration with Trumpism**: The movement’s alignment with Trump underscores a shift toward populist authoritarianism, with religious fervor fueling political polarization.
### Cultural Shifts and Challenges to Democracy
The NAR’s influence extends beyond the ballot box. Its followers engage in charismatic worship practices, spiritual mapping of cities, and apocalyptic rhetoric, fostering a culture that sees itself as engaged in a cosmic battle. Critics warn that the movement’s rejection of pluralism and democracy, coupled with its fervent call for societal transformation, poses a significant threat to secular governance.
### Conclusion
McCrummen’s article highlights the urgency of understanding the New Apostolic Reformation, not just as a religious phenomenon but as a movement with profound implications for democracy. As the line between faith and politics blurs, the question remains: Can the United States preserve its secular foundations in the face of such a transformative force?
This unfolding story challenges Americans to grapple with the balance between religious freedom and the preservation of constitutional democracy.
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The article examines the rise of the **New Apostolic Reformation (NAR)**, a charismatic Christian movement that seeks to establish a theocratic system in the United States by dismantling the secular state. The movement emphasizes the concept of "dominionism," which involves Christians taking control of societal "Seven Mountains": government, business, education, family, arts, media, and religion.
- **Key Features of the NAR:**
- Belief in modern-day apostles and prophets who communicate directly with God.
- A focus on spiritual warfare, where demonic forces are believed to control individuals and institutions.
- A utopian vision of replacing secular democracy with a Christian-ruled society.
- **Political Intersections:**
- The movement has played a significant role in supporting Donald Trump, seeing him as a divine instrument to advance their goals.
- NAR-aligned figures and organizations have been involved in political mobilization, such as influencing swing voters and supporting policies aligned with their theocratic vision.
- **Cultural and Religious Impact:**
- The movement has drawn participants from diverse backgrounds, blending apocalyptic imagery, charismatic worship practices, and modern media.
- Critics argue that the movement poses a profound threat to democracy, promoting exclusionary and authoritarian ideals under the guise of religious freedom.
### Examples of Religious Movements Interfering with Freedom and Politics Globally
1. **Hindutva in India**:
- Right-wing Hindu nationalism promotes the idea of India as a Hindu state, often marginalizing religious minorities like Muslims and Christians.
- Interventions in education, business, and lawmaking reflect an effort to align governance with Hindu ideals.
2. **Iran’s Islamic Theocracy**:
- The political system blends religious leadership with state governance, suppressing dissent and imposing Sharia law on all citizens, regardless of their personal beliefs.
3. **Orthodox Church Influence in Russia**:
- The Russian Orthodox Church has closely aligned itself with the Kremlin, supporting policies that limit LGBTQ rights and promote conservative social values.
4. **Buddhist Nationalism in Myanmar**:
- Radical Buddhist movements, like Ma Ba Tha, have incited violence against Rohingya Muslims and influenced laws restricting minority rights.
5. **Christian Dominionism in Sub-Saharan Africa**:
- In countries like Uganda, evangelical influences have contributed to anti-LGBTQ legislation, such as the infamous "Anti-Homosexuality Act."
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