The Rise of the New Apostolic Reformation: A Threat to Democracy?
By Stephanie McCrummen
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.
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Buddhist Nationalism in Myanmar:
- Radical Buddhist movements, like Ma Ba Tha, have incited violence against Rohingya Muslims and influenced laws restricting minority rights.
- 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.”
Posts
0 Comments