The article from Aftenposten addresses the increasing political manipulation of Christianity by far-right groups in Europe and the USA, amidst a noticeable decline in church attendance and the number of active churches. Researchers estimate that about 15,000 churches closed in the USA alone in 2025, which is a record high given the approximate 360,000 Christian congregations in the country. This significant decline raises questions about how Christianity can be seen as both diminishing and gaining political importance simultaneously.

The discussion highlights a paradox where Christianity's relevance in the daily lives of individuals is waning, yet its political applications are on the rise, especially among far-right factions. These groups seem to harness Christian values to bolster their agendas, appealing to a sense of traditionalism and moral authority, which they argue is being threatened by modern secular values. This trend indicates a shift in how religion is perceived in the political sphere, potentially leading to deep societal divisions.

Furthermore, the implications of this trend are profound for the future of religious institutions and their followers. If the closures of churches continue and the political association with Christianity strengthens among extreme groups, it could alter the public's perception of both faith and politics. This situation poses challenges for mainstream religious communities, which may find themselves caught in a tug-of-war, trying to reclaim their faith from political exploitation while addressing the spiritual needs of their dwindling congregations.