This book is as appropriate as ever considering the political/economic climate we have been living in for the past 5-10 years. With the rise in Christian Nationalism and the MAGA movement, this books tries to bridge the chasm between these two worlds. I do think Dr. Mouw tries to weave the narrative so that all parties are somewhat represented in this discussion without offending anyone. That may be the downfall of the book overall is that one feels that a consensus of understanding was not reached by the end of the book. I do think the book is a worthwhile quick read for anyone looking to start the discussion of this large and at times complex intersection of Religion and Nation state. Would he curious to see the author pen another book that intersperses the current environment examples for further introspection. ( )

Mouw and I fundamentally disagree on several points; however I appreciate his civil approach in this attempt to find a sort of third way between Christian Nationalism and an Anabaptist-like rejection of civil involvement. Early in the book, his discussion of Nation vs State is an interesting framing for such discussions.

This book was received as part of Early Reviewers. Dr. Mouw valiantly attempts to be the voice of reason in an unreasonable time. While the concepts are worthy, and easy to follow, I fear that those who really do need to be reminded of them willl fail to grasp the intent. Those on either side of the spectrum may feel that he is failing to push one way or another, rather than seeing the fine line he is attempting to straddle. Definitely a worthy read, and one that would make a great starting place for discussion. Sadly, I doubt those who read it will be inspired to open their mind to possible overlap in beliefs. ( )

An expert in analyzing the intersection of religion and politics, Dr. Mouw has many worthwhile points for the modern American context. However, despite his expertise, it does seem that he's holding back in this book. While worth a quick read, it would be wonderful to read the author's true, full feelings without worry of offending. But that may just be the point, Dr. Mouw makes sure that all can read his book through without slamming it down in disagreement. However, it does leave a bit of a lukewarm taste in the mouth as the volume is truthful, yet not overly forceful, in its arguments.

Mouw is threading a lot of needles in "How to be a Patriotic Christian." He places himself in a non-denominational, non-partisan position straddling a universalist theology and a specific nationalism.
As a disclaimer, I am Jewish, and I read "How to be a Patriotic Christian" from the perspective of someone personally familiar with Christians whose beliefs range from queer liberationism to Christofascism, and who is particularly concerned by the increasing public acceptance of Christian Nationalism. Richard Mouw shares my concerns.

His writing style is eminently readable, his theology is legible to a diverse readership, and his American patriotism is carefully worded to be at least acceptable to the vast majority of American Christians. This balance is the book’s greatest strength and its greatest weakness. It leaves room for a thoughtful exploration of what being both patriotic and faithful means in the modern world (it does not mean theocracy!), but the vision prepared is not inspiring in its own right. His nationalism limits his theology and his theology limits his nationalism, except in some narrow examples where the two overlap. His American context also limits the degree to which his Christianity can drive his stated political preferences; it would not be breaking new ground to find Biblical support for myriad government welfare programs (for mothers, children, orphans, the old, and disabled) but since these are controversial within an American context, Mouw provides no discussion beyond vague allusions to a “social safety net.”

In summary, Mouw thoughtfully engages with the tangled issues of Christian faith and American patriotism, producing a centrist path. The book’s greatest contribution is as a rebuttal to Christian Nationalism, an ideology the author finds disquieting. ( )