“Dominionism” is a multifarious political and religious philosophy, a little bit hard to pin down, that seeks to convert national governments into Christian theocracies. It came on my radar about 25 years ago, when I heard neighbors talking about the need to put ourselves under a particular para-church leadership by making solemn covenants with them, so that we could then work together to “take over” the world for Jesus. Of course, being a staunch futurist, when I understood they were postmillennialist or amillennialist and so believed that there would not be any future Antichrist or Tribulation (or Rapture/s), because, “well, all that happened with the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD,” I said “no thanks.”
Regarding American evangelical politicians holding this viewpoint, think Ted Cruz, Rick Perry, and Sarah Palin.
I offer this short, but in-depth, research article (with 107 endnotes) about the history of dominionism for your consideration, because “forewarned is forearmed,” as they say:
: ** Dominionism Rising**A Theocratic Movement Hiding In Plain Sight. By Frederick Clarkson.
A few disclaimers about this very insightful article:
- It is from a leftist, non-Christian group
- I have no general problem with Christians holding political office
- I voted for Trump, and generally favor the Republican position on any given issue
Various para-church ministries are devoted to dominionism, and they include a wide range of doctrinal positions. But what I know about is the granddaddy of them all: The NAR (New Apostolic Reformation). The NAR was founded by C. Peter Wagner (recently deceased). Members have included Chuck Pierce, Bob Jones, Paul Cain, Cindy Jacobs, Mike Bickle, Rick Joyner, Todd Bentley, Lou Engle, and Ted Haggard.
So just where should we draw the line regarding ecumenism? Any organized attempt to bring about cooperation and unity among Christians must be based on truth. And while we are certainly to fulfill the Great Commission, consolidating independent, autonomous local churches under an external leadership can sometimes be a strategy of the enemy.
I know you would agree that political power (whether in or out of the Church) is no substitute for the pure power of love. We remember Martin Luther and others revolted against the tyrannical rule of the Holy Roman popes, their bishops, and their Catholic royalty. Charges of heresy flew back and forth, jails were filled with protesters, and many, many people lost their lives.
Here are two Bible verses which stand in opposition to the tenets of dominionism:
*-Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” * John 18:36.
*-But I tell you, do not swear [affirm/promise] an oath at all. *Matthew 5:34. (See also, Js. 5:12.)
Blessings.