Book on Christian Nationalist Agenda Put on Hold After Author's Subject is Murdered

Book on Charlie Kirk's Christian Nationalist Agenda Abruptly Put on Hold After Author's Subject is Murdered University of North Georgia English professor Matthew Boedy had been working on a book exposing the Christian nationalist aims of Turning Point USA and its late founder, right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk. The book, titled "The Seven Mountains Mandate: Exposing the Dangerous Plan to Christianize America and Destroy Democracy," was set to be released soon. However, the project's momentum came to an abrupt halt when Kirk was murdered in a shooting incident on January 23, 2023. Boedy had been researching and writing about Kirk's involvement with the seven-mountain mandate, a concept popularized by Texas business strategist Lance Wallnau that aims to take over various spheres of influence. According to Boedy, "Kirk modeled Turning Point USA after this idea, which is rooted in the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR), a loose network of charismatic churches that follow prophets and apostles claiming divine messages from God." Boedy's book aimed to expose how NAR leaders and ideas have become deeply entwined with American politics. The seven-mountain mandate has been influential in shaping Christian nationalist ideology, which seeks to merge church and state. Critics argue that this agenda threatens democracy and individual freedoms. Boedy had been researching the topic for several years and had gathered extensive material on Kirk's involvement with Turning Point USA. "Kirk was a key figure in promoting the seven-mountain mandate," Boedy said. "His murder has left many questions unanswered, but it's clear that his ideology continues to pose a threat to democracy." The University of North Georgia confirmed that Boedy had been working on the book and that its publication had been put on hold due to Kirk's death. As the investigation into Kirk's murder continues, experts are weighing in on the implications of his ideology. Dr. Kathryn Lofton, a professor of American studies at Yale University, noted that "Kirk's involvement with Turning Point USA and the seven-mountain mandate highlights the dangers of Christian nationalism." Lofton added that "the merging of church and state is a threat to democratic values and individual freedoms." The case has sparked concerns about the influence of extremist ideologies on American politics. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Kirk's murder will impact the publication of Boedy's book and the ongoing debate about Christian nationalism. Background: Turning Point USA was founded in 2012 by Charlie Kirk, a right-wing influencer who has been accused of promoting extremist ideologies. The group has gained significant influence among conservative circles, with many of its leaders advocating for policies that align with Christian nationalist ideology. The seven-mountain mandate, popularized by Lance Wallnau, aims to take over various spheres of influence, including government, education, media, and more. Critics argue that this agenda seeks to merge church and state, threatening democracy and individual freedoms. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Andrew L. Whitehead, a professor of sociology at Clemson University, noted that "the seven-mountain mandate is a key component of Christian nationalist ideology." Whitehead added that "its influence can be seen in the rise of extremist groups promoting anti-democratic policies." As the investigation into Kirk's murder continues, experts are urging caution and critical thinking about the implications of his ideology. Boedy's book remains on hold, but its publication is likely to spark further debate about Christian nationalism and its impact on American politics. Current Status: The University of North Georgia has confirmed that Boedy's book is on hold due to Kirk's death. The investigation into Kirk's murder continues, with authorities working to determine the motive behind the shooting. As the case unfolds, experts are urging caution and critical thinking about the implications of Christian nationalist ideology. The publication of Boedy's book remains uncertain, but its release is likely to spark further debate about the dangers of merging church and state. *Reporting by Motherjones.*