How a Fringe Christian Movement Reshaped Conservative Politics Forever
Christian Reconstructionism is a movement within conservative Protestantism that pushes for society to be governed by biblical law. Its origins trace back to theologian R. J. Rushdoony, whose ideas took shape in the 1960s and 1970s. Though its core following has remained small, its influence has stretched far wider through books, churches, and political networks.
The movement began with Rushdoony’s argument that Old Testament laws should still direct modern life. In his 1973 book The Institutes of Biblical Law, he claimed that politics, economics, and culture must submit to divine authority rather than secular democracy. He even supported the death penalty for offences like adultery, blasphemy, and homosexuality—positions drawn directly from scripture.
Rushdoony’s work led him to establish The Chalcedon Foundation in 1965. This organisation became the movement’s centre, training influential figures such as Greg Bahnsen and Gary North. While the number of dedicated followers never exceeded a few thousand, its ideas spread through conservative Christian circles.
Christian Reconstructionism did more than promote theological beliefs—it turned dominionist ideas into a political project. By framing biblical law as a blueprint for governance, it shaped the Christian right’s direction. Later, C. Peter Wagner adapted parts of Rushdoony’s thought into the New Apostolic Reformation, broadening its reach.
Pastor Doug Wilson, though not a founder, became a key link between Reconstructionism and modern dominionism. Based in Moscow, Idaho, he has promoted Christian schools, traditional family structures, and a ‘Christian worldview’ in daily life. While he has distanced himself from the label, his work keeps reconstructionist ideas in circulation.
Beyond Rushdoony’s strict legalism, dominionism now includes charismatic kingdom theology, which focuses on prophecy and spiritual authority rather than formal biblical law. Together, these strands have kept the movement’s influence alive in different forms.
Christian Reconstructionism remains a niche belief system with limited formal membership. Yet its call for biblical law in public life has left a lasting mark on conservative Christianity. Through networks, publications, and political engagement, its ideas continue to shape debates over faith, governance, and culture.
