Faith and Fracture: How The Book 'Jesus and John Wayne' by Kristin Kobes Du Mez Exposes the Ties Between White Evangelicalism and American Nationalism

April 17, 2025

By Karen Brittingham-Edmond

Book Review: Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation By: Acclaimed Scholar Kristin Du Mez

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In her provocative new book, “Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation,” author Kristin Kobes Du Mez offers a penetrating look at the intricate ties between white evangelicalism and American cultural identity. Du Mez argues that the portrayal of masculinity and militarism, epitomized by iconic figures like John Wayne, has significantly shaped the development of white evangelical identity in the United States.

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Tracing the historical roots of this transformation, Du Mez reveals how evangelical leaders have harnessed Americana—particularly through film and popular culture—to forge a version of Christianity that is often inextricably linked to nationalism. This fusion has warped traditional evangelical messages, contributing to profound social and political divisions across the nation.

Throughout the book, Du Mez illustrates how white evangelicals have frequently adapted their religious beliefs to align with conservative ideologies, often prioritizing cultural power and political influence over theological integrity. Through a series of case studies and personal narratives, the author sheds light on the complicity of evangelical communities in broader societal issues, such as racism, sexism, and the acceptance of violence.

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At the heart of Du Mez's thesis is the idea that the blending of evangelical faith with a rugged, militaristic brand of masculinity has tarnished genuine Christian values, leading to a fracturing within both the faith community and the country itself. This work stands as an essential critique of contemporary evangelicalism, urging a reassessment of its history and practices in light of their implications for American society.

“Jesus and John Wayne” challenges readers to grapple with the complexities of faith and identity, sparking a vital conversation about the future of evangelicalism in an ever-evolving cultural landscape. With its incisive insights, Du Mez’s work serves as a wake-up call for many within and beyond the evangelical community, prompting a reevaluation of the dominant narratives shaped and perpetuated over decades.

As the nation grapples with its identity and values, this book compels both believers and skeptics alike to reflect on the troublesome intersections of faith and nationalism.