Former U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse isn't holding back when it comes to some of the louder voices associated with Christian nationalism.
During a candid appearance on a podcast with Reformed theologian Michael Horton, the former Nebraska senator dismissed some strands of Christian nationalism and Catholic integralism as politically unrealistic, arguing that many of the movement's most provocative ideas amount to little more than internet outrage.
Sasse, who has long identified with the Reformed tradition, warned that some Christians are embracing what he described as an "over-realized eschatology"-attempting to build God's Kingdom through political power instead of recognizing the biblical tension of living in the "already, but not yet."
"I do think there is a temptation right now to have an over-realized eschatology," Sasse said, describing the mindset of those eager to establish what they believe is a Christian political order. According to Sasse, the rhetoric often sounds like people determined to "build it now" and "smash the people who are in the way."
While acknowledging that Christians can legitimately critique certain assumptions of the Enlightenment, Sasse stressed that no earthly political system should ever be mistaken for the Kingdom of God.
The former senator also poured cold water on some of the more controversial proposals circulating online, including calls from a handful of self-described Christian nationalists to abolish women's suffrage.
"There is no chance on Earth" such proposals could ever become reality, Sasse said, dismissing the debate as "a weirdo online phenomenon" that generates clicks rather than meaningful political change.
He added that there is a significant difference between philosophical discussions about church and state and the practical realities of governing, suggesting many advocates have failed to think through how their ideas could actually work.
Sasse also pointed to similarities between certain Protestant Christian nationalist arguments and Catholic integralism, cautioning that many who admire such ideas have not fully considered their implications.
The conversation carried extra weight given Sasse's personal circumstances. After revealing last December that he has Stage 4 pancreatic cancer, the former senator said his diagnosis has only reinforced his conviction that Christians must remember their ultimate citizenship is in Heaven-not in any earthly nation.
Echoing themes he has emphasized for years, Sasse argued that believers should resist placing their hope in political movements or governments, remembering instead that they are living in exile as they await God's eternal Kingdom.
His latest comments are already fueling fresh debate over the role of faith in American politics-and whether the loudest online voices truly reflect the broader Christian community.
