The Christian Right Notes

Overview of the Christian Right and American Foreign Policy

Author: William Martin

Key Individuals

  • Jerry Falwell

  • A prominent evangelical leader and founder of the Moral Majority.

  • Pat Robertson

  • Founder of the Christian Broadcasting Network and a significant political figure.

  • James Dobson

  • Founder of Focus on the Family, influential in promoting conservative family values.

Key Groups

  • Moral Majority

  • Founded in 1979 by Jerry Falwell, aimed at mobilizing conservative Christians.

  • Focus on the Family

  • Founded by James Dobson, advocates for traditional family values and opposes abortion and same-sex marriage.

  • Christian Coalition

  • Created by Pat Robertson, seeks to influence public policy by mobilizing Christians to participate in the political process.


Dispensationalist Premillennialism is a theological framework in Christian eschatology that holds that Jesus Christ will return to Earth before a literal thousand-year reign (the Millennium) during which He will establish His kingdom. Key characteristics include:
- A belief in distinct dispensations or eras in God’s plan for humanity, each with specific requirements and divine revelation.
- Emphasis on Biblical prophecy, particularly from the books of Daniel and Revelation, focusing on the events leading up to Christ's second coming.
- The idea that the current age is one of moral decline, reflecting a growing tendency toward sin such as abortion and same-sex marriage, which adherents often believe must be addressed to restore moral order.


The Christian Right generally views the United Nations (UN) and international organizations (IOs) with skepticism and often as undermining American sovereignty and promoting liberal agendas contrary to conservative beliefs. They tend to believe that these entities advocate policies that conflict with their core values, particularly on issues like abortion and family values. Furthermore, some members of the Christian Right are concerned that international human rights norms might infringe upon their religious liberties and traditional views on moral issues.

Overall, the Christian Right often supports a foreign policy that emphasizes unilateral action and the defense of national interests over multilateral cooperation through international organizations.


China

Many within the Christian community, particularly among the Christian Right, express concerns regarding China's approach to religious freedom and human rights. The following points highlight some key perspectives:

  • Religious Persecution: There is significant concern over the treatment of Christians and other religious minorities in China, including restrictions on worship, persecution of believers, and efforts by the government to control religious practices.

  • Advocacy for Human Rights: Many Christian groups advocate for the recognition and protection of human rights globally, which includes standing against abuses in China. This often translates to calls for increased attention to the persecution faced by Christians in the country.

  • Skepticism of Engagement: The Christian Right's overall skepticism towards international organizations may influence their approach to China. There is often a focus on protecting American values and sovereignty, leading to caution in diplomatic engagements that may not prioritize religious freedom.

  • Support for Advocacy Groups: Various Christian organizations actively raise awareness and engage in advocacy to support persecuted Christians in China, seeking to mobilize public opinion and influence policy decisions to address these issues.

Overall, the Christian view on China is shaped by deep concerns for religious freedom, a commitment to human rights advocacy, and a cautious approach to international relations that prioritize the protection of their values.