During the Cold War, American Christianity found itself caught in the crosshairs of a global ideological struggle. As the United States confronted the "godless communism" of the Soviet Union, faith and patriotism became deeply intertwined, giving rise to a new form of civil religion that reshaped the church’s mission and identity.
In this episode of The Pilgrim’s Interests, Blake Hart explores how the Cold War politicized Christianity, transforming it into both a cultural symbol and a tool for national unity. From the addition of “In God We Trust” as the national motto to Billy Graham’s fiery crusades and the rise of the Religious Right, we’ll uncover the ways in which faith was mobilized for ideological purposes—and the profound risks this posed to the church’s prophetic voice.
But this is not just a story of caution. It’s also a call to action. In a world still grappling with the tension between faith and politics, what does it mean for the church to speak truth to power while remaining faithful to Christ’s kingdom? How can believers reclaim their prophetic role, calling leaders to righteousness and standing firm for justice, mercy, and truth?
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