The Theocratic Vision Behind Trump’s Legislation: A Call for Reflection
Introduction to a Fundamental Transformation
We stand on the brink of a transformative moment in America’s political landscape. President Donald Trump’s "big, beautiful bill" represents the most sweeping legislation in a generation. This legislation is not merely a political maneuver; it embodies the culmination of American evangelical aspirations—a theocratic and authoritarian vision, often referred to as Project 2025. While touted as a triumph for the administration, it casts a long shadow, revealing a historical cruelty that threatens to deepen inequality, dismantle healthcare and food assistance programs for vulnerable families, and heighten the battle against marginalized immigrant populations.
Evangelical Celebrations Amidst Suffering
Despite the harsh realities of this legislation, many evangelical Christians celebrate its passage. Ministries like Intercessors for America have publicly praised aspects of the bill, framing cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as crucial measures to eliminate "fraud and waste." They express joy over increased funding for ICE and detention facilities, viewing these as necessary steps to safeguard the nation from perceived threats. This dissonance bewilderingly contrasts with the Christian ethos of compassion, prompting many to question how believers can support policies that appear so harsh.
The Spirituality Shaping Evangelical Politics
As someone who grew up within this evangelical context and served as an evangelical pastor for over eight years, I recognize the logic that underpins these political choices. Understanding this intersection of spirituality and politics is essential to comprehending the support for such legislation. In my forthcoming book, Hell Bent, I explore how the evangelical perspective on eternal punishment fundamentally distorts their spirituality and consequently, their political affiliations.
Division: Us vs. Them Mentality
A core trait of evangelical politics lies in its division of society into stark categories—"us" and "them," "in" and "out." This binary thinking manifests in categories such as citizen versus non-citizen and straight versus gay. The theological underpinning of heaven and hell further accentuates this divide. An evangelical once remarked to me, “If you think border walls are cruel, just wait until heaven—it’s a gated community, and God won’t let a single ‘illegal immigrant’ break through from hell!” Such rhetoric illustrates how a belief in eternal judgment can justify harsh political measures.
Domination: A Quest for Supremacy
Evangelical Christians often operate under the belief that their way is the only path to salvation, making the imposition of Christian values onto society a priority that often overshadows compassion. Historically, Christian colonizers have invoked similar justifications for conquest and oppression, claiming a divine mandate to spread the gospel regardless of human costs. This longstanding trend continues to influence contemporary evangelical politics, where pursuit of power often trumps the call for empathy and human dignity.
Apocalyptic Focus: The End of the World
Another aspect of evangelical political engagement is its obsession with apocalyptic narratives, overshadowing initiatives aimed at the flourishing of the earth. Many evangelicals hold a belief that global events are part of a divine script leading to the end times, often disregarding urgent issues such as climate change and global justice. For them, the Second Coming of Christ assumes precedence over worldly matters, leading to a neglect of the environment and social justice efforts. This attitude not only endangers our planet’s future but also trivializes the immediate human suffering around us.
Compassionate Politics: The Alternative to Exclusion
In stark contrast, the core teachings of Jesus embody principles of solidarity, compassion, and an inclusive understanding of humanity. Jesus did not reinforce societal divisions; rather, he exemplified love for all, including the marginalized. The parable of the Good Samaritan serves as a powerful reminder of who our neighbors truly are—someone often considered an outsider. This radical redefinition of neighborly love challenges the exclusionary tendencies of contemporary evangelicalism.
The Legacy of Inclusive Christianity
Fortunately, a long-standing tradition within Christianity recognizes the need for compassion and inclusivity. Figures like Martin Luther King Jr. envisioned a "world house," emphasizing interconnectedness among humanity. King’s message encourages unity among diverse groups, advocating for a shared destiny rather than division. In this vision, we are called to transcend cultural and ideological barriers, embracing a community that values all lives equally.
A Vision for a Just and Compassionate Future
The legacy of Jesus invites us to foster a world where dignity is shared rather than gated. By reclaiming this vision, American Christianity can move beyond the punitive politics that risk creating a living hell on earth. It is time for a collective reevaluation and an embrace of a faith that emphasizes love, justice, and the flourishing of humanity.
Brian Recker, a public theologian and former evangelical pastor, navigates the complex landscape of Christian spirituality and modern politics. Embracing a more inclusive vision, he encourages a deeper understanding of faith that reflects compassion and understanding rather than fear and exclusion. With the release of his book Hell Bent, he aims to inspire dialogue around these urgent issues, wherever they may lead us.
