Unpacking Dominion Theology and Theonomy in Contemporary Christianity

Dominion theology and theonomy are controversial topics in contemporary Christianity. While some view these movements as a return to biblical values and principles, others criticize them for promoting authoritarianism and theocracy. In this article, we delve into the roots, values, and critiques of these doctrines, as well as their impact on political theology within Christianity. Read on to learn more about these fascinating topics that continue to occupy the minds of believers and skeptics alike.

The Roots of Dominion Theology and Theonomy in Christianity

To truly understand Dominion Theology and Theonomy, it’s important to explore their roots in Christianity. Both of these concepts are rooted in a desire to see Christian principles and values reflected in society and government. Here are some of the key historical and theological factors that gave rise to Dominion Theology and Theonomy:

1. Biblical Law: At the heart of both Dominion Theology and Theonomy is a belief that biblical law should be the basis for society and government. This concept dates back to the Old Testament, where God’s law was seen as the foundation for Israel’s society and government. In the New Testament, some Christian thinkers expanded this concept to include all of society, arguing that biblical law should shape secular law as well.

2. The Cultural Mandate: Another important concept in both Dominion Theology and Theonomy is the idea of the cultural mandate. This refers to God’s command to Adam and Eve in Genesis 1:28 to “be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it.” Some Christian thinkers argue that this mandate extends beyond simply having children and maintaining the natural world to encompass all of human society and culture. In other words, Christians have a mandate to shape society and culture in a way that reflects biblical values.

3. Eschatology: Finally, the rise of Dominion Theology and Theonomy can be traced back to certain eschatological beliefs in Christianity. Some Christian thinkers believe that Jesus will not return until the world has been fully Christianized, meaning that Christianity must infiltrate all aspects of society and government before Christ’s return. This belief has fueled a desire to “take dominion” over society and culture, which is where the term “Dominion Theology” comes from.

In the context of contemporary Christianity, Dominion Theology and Theonomy are often associated with the Christian Reconstructionist movement and with certain streams of Christian conservatism. However, it’s worth noting that not all Christians who hold to biblical law or the cultural mandate embrace these concepts. In fact, there is a great deal of debate and controversy among Christians regarding the appropriateness of pursuing a “theocratic” or “dominionist” agenda.

Defining Dominion Theology: Core Beliefs and Values

Dominion theology and theonomy refer to a set of beliefs centered on the idea that Christians have a divine mandate to exercise ‘dominion’ or control over all areas of society – including government, politics, education, arts, and media – through the application of biblical law. Here are some core beliefs and values associated with dominion theology and theonomy:

1. Cultural mandate: Dominion theology and theonomy are based on the idea that God gave humanity a mandate to exercise control and influence over the entire world (Genesis 1:28). This mandate extends to all areas of society and involves challenging the dominant cultural institutions and values that oppose God’s sovereignty.

2. Biblical law: According to theonomy, biblical law provides the only true and absolute foundation for all laws and norms in society. This includes the application of Old Testament laws and principles into contemporary cultural contexts.

3. Theocracy: Dominion theology advocates for the establishment of a society governed by religious leaders who interpret and enforce God’s laws.

4. Christian nationalism: Dominion theology and theonomy often coincide with the idea of Christian nationalism, which is the belief that America is a ‘Christian nation’ founded on biblical principles that need to be reintroduced into the public sphere.

5. Postmillennialism: Dominion theology is often based on the belief that the church will usher in a golden age of spiritual government, cultural transformation, and peace on earth before the second coming of Christ.

6. Christian patriarchy: Some dominionist groups believe in male leadership in the home and in society, as well as the subjugation of women.

These core beliefs and values of dominion theology and theonomy have influenced a number of Christian leaders and organizations. They have also been the subject of significant controversy, with many Christians rejecting the idea that Christians should seek to control all areas of society or that biblical law should be the sole basis for law in contemporary society.

Exploring Theonomy in Modern Christianity

Theonomy, also known as Christian reconstructionism, is a theological and political philosophy that advocates for the implementation of biblical law as the basis for society. In essence, it seeks to create a society ruled by theocracy, or divine mandate.

Here are some key characteristics of theonomy in modern Christianity:

1. Biblical law – Theonomy asserts that biblical law should be the basis for all law in society. This means that the laws and principles found in the Old Testament should be followed and enforced in modern times as they were in ancient Israel.

2. Cultural mandate – Theonomy emphasizes the importance of Christians being active in all spheres of society. This includes politics, business, education, and the arts. It sees these areas as part of the cultural mandate given by God to humanity in Genesis 1:28 to “subdue the earth” and establish dominion over it.

3. Reconstructing society – Theonomy envisions a society that is reconstructed according to biblical law. This includes moral principles, civil laws, and economic regulations. It advocates for the abolishment of secular institutions and replacing them with biblical law.

4. Christian dominionism – Theonomy is closely related to the idea of Christian dominionism, which is the belief that Christians are called to exercise dominion and authority over all areas of society, not just the Church.

5. Patriarchy – Some theonomists believe in a patriarchal view of society, which places men in positions of authority over women in the family, church, and society.

Despite its popularity in some circles, theonomy has provoked controversy and criticism for its extreme views. Critics argue that it promotes a rigid and legalistic interpretation of the Bible, undermines the importance of grace and mercy, and has a narrow and exclusionary view of society.

As Christians, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of political and theological movements and consider how they align with the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Dominion Theology and Theonomy’s Impact on Political Theology

Dominion Theology and Theonomy have had a significant impact on the way Christians approach politics in the modern era. At its core, the belief in Dominion Theology dictates that humans have been granted divine authority to rule over the earth. In practice, this means that Dominionists believe that Christians have a responsibility to bring all aspects of society, including politics, under the control of biblical law.

The impact of Dominion Theology and Theonomy on political theology can be seen in a variety of ways. For one, Dominionists have been known to push for the creation of a theocracy in which biblical law is the law of the land. They have also advocated for the use of biblical law in the creation of public policy, such as in the criminal justice system or in laws related to social issues like abortion and homosexuality.

Critics of Dominion Theology and Theonomy have pointed out that this approach to politics can be dangerous. The enforcement of biblical law can be subjective, and the notion of divine rule can lead to a lack of accountability or checks and balances. It has also been argued that the imposition of biblical law can be damaging to individual freedoms and civil liberties.

Despite these criticisms, Dominion Theology and Theonomy continue to influence political theology within Christianity. Christian reconstructionists who ascribe to these beliefs are active in politics, often pushing for a more conservative social agenda and advocating for policies based on biblical law. Some have even been elected to political office.

Ultimately, the impact of Dominion Theology and Theonomy on political theology remains a complex issue within Christianity. While some view these beliefs as a moral imperative, others view them as a challenge to the foundations of democracy and individual freedoms. As Christianity continues to evolve in the modern era, the role of Dominion Theology and Theonomy in shaping political theology will remain a topic of debate and discussion.

Critiques and Controversies Surrounding Dominion Theology and Theonomy

As with any theological movement, there are critiques and controversies surrounding dominion theology and theonomy within the Christian community. Here are some of the main points of contention:

1. Misinterpretation of Scripture: Critics of the dominionist agenda argue that proponents of this theological movement have a selective interpretation of the Bible and take verses out of context to support their worldview. They argue that the Bible does not actually support the idea of a theocratic government or a Christian takeover of society.

2. Dangerous Political Agenda: Another critique of dominion theology is its potential for harm if put into practice politically. Some worry that the implementation of theonomic ethics would lead to oppressive laws and policies that restrict individual freedoms and undermine the democratic process.

3. Christian Nationalism: Many people within the Christian community also worry about the overlap between dominion theology and Christian nationalism. They argue that the belief in a divine mandate for Christians to rule over society can lead to a dangerous form of nationalism that prioritizes certain religious groups over others, and ultimately promotes bigotry and discrimination.

4. Biblical Law in Modern Society: Some critics of theonomy argue that the attempt to apply Old Testament laws to modern society is problematic. They argue that these laws were specifically meant for ancient Israel and are not necessarily relevant today.

5. Theocratic Agenda: Critics worry that the ultimate goal of the dominionist movement is to establish a theocracy, which would undermine the separation of church and state and violate the rights of non-Christian citizens.

It’s important to note, however, that not all Christians who hold to dominionist beliefs or theonomic ethics share these controversial views. Like any theological movement, there is a spectrum of beliefs within the dominionist/reconstructionist movement.

Regardless of where one falls on the spectrum, it’s important to approach these controversial topics with humility and a willingness to engage in respectful dialogue with those who may hold differing views.

The Future of Dominion Theology and Theonomy within Christianity

As with any theological or ideological movement, the future of Dominion Theology and Theonomy in Christianity is somewhat uncertain. While these beliefs have gained traction among some Christian circles, they remain relatively unknown to mainstream religious leaders and congregants.

There is also a growing awareness of the political implications of Dominion Theology and Theonomy, particularly in light of recent events in American politics. Many Christian leaders have spoken out against the Dominionist and Christian Nationalist movements that seek to use political power to impose a specific interpretation of biblical law on society.

At the same time, there are still individuals and organizations that continue to espouse Dominion Theology and Theonomy, and they may have a lasting impact on Christian culture and politics in the future. The Christian Reconstructionist movement, for example, has been influential in shaping the beliefs of some conservative Christians, even if its ultimate vision of a theocratic society is unlikely to be realized.

Ultimately, the future of Dominion Theology and Theonomy within Christianity will depend on a number of factors, including the ability of its proponents to gain a wider following, the reactions of mainstream Christian leaders and congregants, and the political climate in different parts of the world. Regardless of its ultimate fate, it is important for Christians to engage in thoughtful dialogue and discussion about these beliefs and their implications for the church and society as a whole.