White Christian Nationalism as Heresy: A Conversation with John Fanestil

Why do so many Americans believe the U.S. is God’s chosen nation? And how did Protestant ideas of martyrdom, land ownership, and war shape the founding of our democracy?

In this episode, Will and Josh sit down with Dr. John Fanestil, a United Methodist pastor, historian, and author of American Heresy, to explore the deep roots of white Christian nationalism in early English Protestant colonization. Fanestil traces how ideas about land, race, and theology became embedded in the American story—and how those ideas still echo today, particularly in the rhetoric of political leaders like Donald Trump.

From George Washington’s land grabs to Jefferson’s complex faith, Fanestil offers a compelling look at how Protestant theology shaped America’s founding myths—and how nationalism, racism, and religious triumphalism became bitter fruits of that legacy.

🧑‍🏫 Guest Bio:

John Fanestil is an ordained United Methodist pastor, historian, and author of American Heresy: The Roots and Reach of White Christian Nationalism. A Rhodes Scholar, he holds degrees from Dartmouth College, Oxford University, Claremont School of Theology, and a PhD in history from the University of Southern California, specializing in religion and early American history. He currently works on cross-border reconciliation efforts through FriendshipPark.org.

🔗 Resources & Links:

Get a signed copy of American Heresy: johnfanestil.com

Learn more about Friendship Park: friendshippark.org

Book Mentioned: American Heresy: The Roots and Reach of White Christian Nationalism (Fortress Press, 2021)

Chapters