Answer
Triumphalism is an attitude characterized by the belief that one’s group, ideology, or religion is inherently superior to all others. This is more than a sense of confidence in one’s beliefs; it is an assertive, sometimes aggressive expectation that one’s beliefs will ultimately prevail, often at the expense of others. In its most extreme forms, triumphalism can lead to arrogance, a lack of humility, and a dismissive stance toward those with different views. It’s important to note that this attitude can potentially harm relationships and hinder empathy.
In religious contexts, triumphalism can be particularly potent. It manifests in the conviction that one’s faith or spiritual tradition is authentic and destined to triumph over all others. This can result in an attitude of superiority, as adherents believe that their religion is divinely favored to the exclusion of others. However, this can also lead to a dismissive stance toward those with different views. In Christianity, triumphalism has historically been associated with the belief that the Christian faith will inevitably spread and dominate worldwide.
Whether Christians are triumphalists depends mainly on how one interprets and practices the Christian faith. Christianity, in its essence, preaches humility, love, and service, rooted in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus rejected earthly dominion (John 18:36). The triumph He achieved was through self-sacrifice, love for enemies, and a commitment to truth over a desire for power.
The New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the letters of Paul, often frames victory in spiritual rather than worldly terms. For instance, the ultimate triumph of Christianity is depicted as victory over sin and death through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, not the domination of other religions or theocratic rule. This victory is understood as a manifestation of God’s grace, not of human conquest or superiority.
However, there have been instances where elements of triumphalism have crept into Christian practice and theology. During the era of Constantine and the subsequent establishment of Christianity as the state religion of the Roman Empire, a more triumphalist attitude began to emerge. The fusion of the Church with political power led to a belief that Christianity was destined to rule, and this mindset carried over into the Middle Ages, particularly during the Crusades and the time of the Holy Roman Empire. In these contexts, triumphalism was often linked with imperialism, and the expansion of the Christian faith was intertwined with political and military conquest.
In the modern era, triumphalism is still evident in certain Christian circles. For example, some Christians believe in a form of eschatology that expects the eventual global dominance of Christianity. Also possessing a triumphalist mindset are adherents of dominionism and kingdom now theology. These groups believe God wants them to take dominion over all the earth, physically, spiritually, and politically. This perspective fosters a belief that Christian values should be imposed on society, often through political means, and that the Church is destined to govern the world in a literal sense.
Nevertheless, many Christians today actively reject triumphalism as contrary to the gospel message. They emphasize the teachings of Jesus on humility, service, and love, arguing that the true victory of Christianity is not about domination but about transformation—both of individuals and societies—through love, grace, and the Holy Spirit. They also stress the importance of dialogue and show respect for the dignity of all people.
Jesus called His followers to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9) and to love their neighbors as themselves (Mark 12:31). Victory is assured the child of God (1 John 5:4–5), but it’s not the victory imagined by triumphalists. It is a victory over sin and death and hell (1 Corinthians 15:54).
