R. R. Reno
R. R. Reno is a prominent figure in the realm of religious and public discourse, serving as the editor of First Things, a leading magazine that shapes conversations on faith and societal issues. With a rich career in academia and journalism, Reno has published in numerous publications, including the New York Times and the Washington Post. His thought-provoking books, such as ‘Return of the Strong Gods’ and ‘The End of Interpretation,’ explore the complexities of nationalism and ecclesial exegesis, cementing his role as a key contributor to contemporary religious thought.
Recent polling paints a disturbing picture: Fewer than half of Gen-Z Americans are extremely or very proud of their country. There’s little doubt that relentless indoctrination in anti-American ideologies at school and in the media contributes to their lukewarm patriotism. But there’s another cause: They’re not stupid. The country shows signs of disease. Each year, a shocking number of people die of drug overdose. Marriage rates have declined. The rate of mothers without husbands has risen. Homeless encampments dot the landscape. A storm surge of pornography and other internet sewage drowns many souls.
Our problems flow from the triumph of the open society, which has eroded our shared prosperity, fragmented our nation, and dispirited our fellow citizens. We are in a season of disintegration and polarization, not hyper-consolidation and dedication to collective purposes. Our historical moment calls for nationalism.
But why Christian nationalism? Short answer: Because it’s the best kind. Christianity frames the nationalist project—which can go wrong, as history reminds us—with timeless truths.
As I know from experience, if you express support for Christian nationalism, readers of the New York Times immediately warn that you’re aiming to create a theocracy. This alarmism reflects an unfortunate ignorance. Christianity invented secular politics. The doctrine of the two swords—the spiritual sword of the Church and the secular sword of the magistrate—created room for a this-worldly concept of governance. God superintends all human affairs. The sword of the magistrate is ordained by God (Rom. 13:1). But the purpose of government is not to make disciples of Christ. Political authority serves the gospel indirectly by promoting a decent society
Excerpt from First Things, March 5, 2026
Exploring the Depths of Faith and Society on Journey TV
R. R. Reno’s recent works delve into the complex interplay between nationalism, populism, and religious identity in today’s world. ‘Return of the Strong Gods’ challenges the prevailing narratives of globalism, advocating for a renewed appreciation of cultural and national values.
Reno quotes from the Web
★★★★★
“The fog of war is proverbial. In the Middle East, one can say the same of peace, which is often war by other means. The circumstances of American involvement in that region are morally complex. For this reason, it is unwise to issue confident moral judgments about Operation Epic Fury.”
2026
★★★★★
“I have counter-revolutionary tendencies, which I have to check.”
2024
★★★★★
“The best adventures involve a strange combination of emotions: a strong expectation of success in concert with all sorts of doubts and worries about the consequences of failure.”
2008
