Preface:
Christ Figure: A literary technique or discovery that a person, whether they exist in reality or in fiction, parallels Christ in some way. The person or character might display one or more of the following actions: performance of miracles, manifestation of divine qualities, healing others, displaying kindness and forgiveness, fighting for justice, being guided by the Spirit, and in their own suffering, rejection, death, and/or resurrection. Christ figures are often martyrs, sacrificing themselves for larger causes. William Wallace, due to his cause, torture, and death for his country, is an example of an historical person who has been called a Christ Figure. Superman, due to his being an only son sent by his father to save the world, is an example of a character who is often thought of as a Christ Figure.
I don’t want to talk about politics publicly. It’s not because I don’t have deep-seated political views or that I don’t like it. And it is not something that I think I have no responsibility in. I do. You do too if you live here in America or some other place where your voice matters. However, I have been called to something very particular and too much revealed passion in this area can damage the opportunities that God has put before me. This is why this is only my second or third political post in nearly 15 years of writing well over two-thousand posts. However, this may, nevertheless, cause damage that I don’t like.
I have already revealed (one time) on social media that I am voting for Trump and I feel a responsibility to write about this only because of a certain well-respected theologian’s remarks about him. For many of you it is no surprise that I’m voting for Trump. As well, many of you expect that I am voting for him and it would come as a surprise if I didn’t! Others of you will be upset and angered by this and may quit following me, supporting the ministry, or using our products. I don’t want this, but I realize I am not going to make everyone happy, even many of those that I care about such as yourself.
With that said, I want to briefly make my case to why I do and will support Trump and disagree a respected theologian..
What You Do Matters Much More Than What You Say
I was somewhat taken aback by John Piper’s revelation that He is not voting because he does not want to “determine which path of destruction [he] will support” (I think that was his conclusion). He believes Donald Trump’s character is just as damaging to this country as Biden’s support of abortion. Here is some of his reasoning:
I remain baffled that so many Christians consider the sins of unrepentant sexual immorality (porneia), unrepentant boastfulness (alazoneia), unrepentant vulgarity (aischrologia), unrepentant factiousness (dichostasiai), and the like, to be only toxic for our nation, while policies that endorse baby-killing, sex-switching, freedom-limiting, and socialistic overreach are viewed as deadly.
John Piper
I have been in the theological world long enough to know that you either learn to understand that those who believe differently than you have valid reasons for believing the way they do or you harden all your categories and are content with a small circle of fellowship. I try to take the path of understanding. So, I do understand where Piper (a very gracious theologian) is coming from. And he may be right, I just don’t agree with him.
First, even if I conceded the destructiveness of Trump’s character, I don’t think we can easily judge a person’s except by what they do. What they say is much less important. I think this passage is perfect for this:
Matthew 21:28 “What do you think? A man had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ 21:29 The boy answered, ‘I will not.’ But later he had a change of heart and went. 21:30 The father went to the other son and said the same thing. This boy answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but did not go. 21:31 Which of the two did his father’s will?” They said, “The first.”
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Jesus conceded this answer.
Jesus says here that what you do matters much more than what you say. In this case, the first son had good character. Why did he say what he said and tell his father he was not going to work in the vineyard? We are not told. I can only imagine that he was like a lot of us, expressing his true desires. He really didn’t want to work! I can understand that. Then he felt bad and went because he knew it was right. But the second son only wanted his father to think he had good character by saying the right things in a respectful way. But it is his action that mattered here.
Like it or not, Trump is a doer. He does and thinks what he says. I have been so irritated by politics since birth. I have no idea who they truly are because they play politics. I have no idea who they truly are just by what they verbally express. They say one thing and do another. Trumps introduction of relentless action on so many matters causes many of us to be refreshed in a way we did not think was going to happen in our lifetime. We like the way Trump has shaken Washington up. And it is our hope that his election causes both parties to reflect on this question: “Why do so many people like Donald Trump so much?” Then they may see the entire polluted character of today’s politics as unnecessary and counter-productive. Christ uses this parable to warn all the self-righteous hypocrites about saying one thing and doing another.
What you say is not the issue. It is what you do. Trump may say some things that Piper and others do not like, but his actions may be betraying his words about his character, just like the first son.
Burning Down the House
People who shake things up are necessary. I wish we had one in the media and in Hollywood, but we do have one in politics. This is someone who does things differently, someone who does not follow the status quo of a system tempered by a gavel of half-truths and corruption, someone who has a personality that is aggressive and forthright.
People hate Trump for his personality just as they hated Christ. I am not saying that Trump is a Christ-figure or even a Christian. I don’t know if he is either of the two. But if you define a Christ figure as “a character who possesses qualities or experiences events similar to those of Jesus Christ,” then I argue that he is. Let me explain.
Trump is progressing through Washington like Christ progressed through Jerusalem. He is breaking a mold and no one likes it. Why would they? No one really likes change. Politicians are uncomfortable with how the money-changing is done. They like the stability as it seems to create patterns for them to follow. They like their robes, their tassels, and getting their feet washed by business owners. They like Jerusalem the way it is. Trump is truly burning down the house and I am glad.
Piper seems to be scared Trump is destroying our country by being divisive. He says this:
This is true not only because [Trump’s] flagrant boastfulness, vulgarity, immorality, and factiousness are self-incriminating, but also because they are nation-corrupting. They move out from centers of influence to infect whole cultures. The last five years bear vivid witness to this infection at almost every level of society.
John Piper
This is a laundry list of claims that, as I mention later, Piper does not back up. He calls Trump “factious.” It simply means dissent, schism, or faction. Does Piper think the kind of change we need can come without turbulence? What does Piper say about William Wilberforce and the abolition of slavery in England? What does he say about Martin Luther’s rash and dissident personality at the Reformation? Were they factious too? What about Christ? Does he think that the Temple can be rebuilt without first destroying it? I don’t know.
Past Sins and Present Accusations
Piper brings up Trumps past sins. There are three problems with this:
1. He brings up his past sins to make present allegations. How could someone like Piper do this? I’m sorry, I love Piper and I learn so much from him, but I think he is heading in a wrong direction here. If Trump is a Christian, as he says he is, these sins are covered. Only Satan brings up our past to vilify our present. Not only this, but even if Trump is not a Christian, we should be very carful in defining anyone by past sins such as these. Everyone can change.
Piper continually talked about the destructiveness of Trump’s character, but he gave no past quotes or illustrations, much less current ones. It was stated as if it was a fact. That is why I think this next point is necessary.
2. Piper and many others seem to believe the media. Trump has been called every name in the book from a xenophobe to a racist. But if I take away everything the media has said, and go off only what I have seen and heard from Trump, I can’t find it. I really can’t. With just about everything, I find the opposite in his word and actions. I’m not saying that Trump is not sometimes harsh, divisive , degrading, and too quick to accept and pronounce accusations that help his agenda, I just can’t let the media create my view. Maybe Piper has seen Trump be divisive by being racist or a hater of other countries, but I think I have all the intel that Piper has (unless he and Trump are close acquaintances!) and I don’t see it.
3. Who doesn’t have indiscretions? The things he is accused of saying and doing that desecrate his character are, indeed, improper. But how many of us don’t have a sordid past (and, many times, present) such as this. We just don’t have a paparazzi of media trailing us and putting on tape all our indiscretions. I could not imagine having on tape or video the things I have said and done done, even as a Christian. They would trump Trump’s indiscretions all day long. He is a lightweight if all he has is what the media has reported. And most of you have things in your past (and present) also, right? Maybe Piper doesn’t.
“Trump is Mean and Does Not Have Christian Character”
I don’t like the way Trump treats his enemies. I would love him to be kinder, more sympathetic, and more balanced in his treatment of their positions. I cringe when he calls people liars, idiots, stupid, and thugs.” With hesitation and trepidation I gaze at my phone as it sends a message that he has tweeted. But I hate to say this, I have also thought these things about what Christ said, so I don’t really know how to think about this! Did he just call those leaders “white-washed tombs” (Matthew 23:27)? Did he just say the greatest man who ever walked the earth (besides him) was a guy calling leaders and scholars a “brood of vipers” (Matthew 11:11)? Did Jesus not call them a brood of vipers himself? (Matthew 12:34)? He did. And here are a few other things Jesus has tweeted that will jolt many of you?
- “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.” –Matthew 10:34
- “Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘If anyone swears by the temple, it is nothing, but if anyone swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.’ You blind fools! For which is greater, the gold or the temple that has made the gold sacred?” –Matthew 23:16-17
- And the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees cleanse the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness.” –Luke 11:39
- “And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” –Matthew 25:30
- “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea.” –Mark 9:42
- “But you have not known him. I know him. If I were to say that I do not know him, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and I keep his word.” –John 8:55
- “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones and all uncleanness.” –Matthew 23:27
- “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” –John 8:44
- “You hypocrites, rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you, saying, 8 ‘This people honors Me with their lips, But their heart is far away from Me.” 9 ‘But in vain do they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’” –Matthew 15:7
- “But as for these enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, bring them here and slaughter them before me.” –Luke 19:27“
- Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.” –Matthew 7:6
- “Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division.” –Luke 12:51
- “And will cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” –Matthew 24:51
- “Woe to those who laugh now, for you shall mourn and weep.” –Luke 6:25
- “…but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.” –Luke 13:3,5
- “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” –Matthew 25:41
This is hard to hear. There are many more, and you don’t want to look at the Old Testament and the Apostles. When the situation called for it, as long as they were in authority, they would often express themselves in cringeworthy ways!
I don’t really follow this path of most resistance myself. For one, I don’t have the authority that Christ had and I am not anyone’s elected leader. And for another, it is not my personality. But if you are God or the President of the United States, maybe, just maybe, you must talk this way to bring about change. Trump was elected to change things. Christ was killed for it. Christ had the mandate of God (being God himself) and Trump has the mandate of the American people.
Can you imagine what the Jerusalem Times was saying about Christ? Can you imagine the villain they created out of him on the Israeli Facebook and Twitter? Can you imagine the memes unbelievers would have of him? It’s this simple: people believed the media. “Christ is destroying Jerusalem and we must kill him.” The pressure was so intense that Nicodemus, a Pharisee and supporter of Christ, had to come to Christ at night because he did not want anyone to know he believed in him. Sound familiar? It is the same thing Chris Pratt will be doing when he sneaks out of Hollywood, at night, to go vote. He will have to do it in secret so that no one catches wind and crucifies him in the media. It was the same in Christ’s day. Most people caved to the political pressure of the day. That is why he was crucified by the Jewish leaders and a fearful Pilate. I feel as if Piper has done the same.
Is it possible the following is happening with Trump:
Mark 14:55 The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death, but they did not find anything. 56 Many gave false testimony against him, but their testimony did not agree. 57 Some stood up and gave this false testimony against him:58 “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple made with hands and in three days build another not made with hands.’” 59 Yet even on this point their testimony did not agree.
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Sound familiar? It does happen. Look at what you have heard him say and do. Is it conceivable the media is giving false testimony?
Conclusion
I am not too divergent in my politics (maybe a bit more libertarian than some), but I believe that most conservative policies are correct when it comes to upholding our constitution. And I believe in our constitution. With that said, I am still a one-issue voter and I have no problems confessing this. The issue of abortion is paramount. If you just switched the two candidates beliefs about this one thing, I would support Biden rather than Trump. Let me go further . . . I would support Bernie Sanders over Trump. I believe the president can do something about abortion. It is already progressing faster than it ever has since 1973. Piper believes that Trumps attitude is destroying the country while witnessing first-hand life literally being given the the most helpless by Trump’s appointments and support.
I love John Piper dearly. I don’t know him and don’t remember meeting him (though I may be wrong). And I am sad that the only thing I have written about him is this. I just don’t believe what he said in his post is true or responsible for a critical thinker and felt the need to respond. I believe we are in a time of political transition and things will always get messy when change is introduced.
I will continue to take note of my own imperfections and listen to and consider what those of you who disagree with me say. If this has done nothing to convince you to vote for Trump, that is okay. I don’t even know if that was my goal. Nevertheless, we can all agree that God is on the throne no matter who is the president and he will always accomplish his will. Therefore, I will not panic no matter who is elected. I will rejoice at His will being accomplished.
148 replies to "Could Trump Be A Christ-Figure? A Response to John Piper About Trump"
You had me…. until your conclusion when you admitted to preferring Biden or Sanders over trump if abortion weren’t a factor. Wow…..I think you need more education in this regard. Very disappointing…. just like Piper’s article.
Jennifer, it was a theoretical statement that was meant to make a point of the importance I see in abortion. 1) it could never be since there is a fundamental reason why today’s Democrat Party supports abortion and is woven into their fabric. 2) I fundamentally believe in just about every conservative value. Some more than others, but they are all connected. For example, trade the second amendment for abortion and we will eventually be at a place worse than before.
However, I do believe that the allowance of abortion is humanity’s biggest shame today.
I would add that if people believe that the rest of the Democrat agenda beyond abortion is desirable, then they have fallen for the big lie that Democrats care about people. They no longer even pretend that as much anymore. They believe in the environment more than people. They believe in some people over other people, like women, until a new victim group arises, like transgenders, who supplant them on the totem pole. They are truly Marxist at their base and it is only now coming out in full. Why did Teddy Kennedy kiss the Soviet dictators in the 80’s, because they have the same worldview- fallen humanity needs a strong hand to force it into moral behavior (and not God’s hand by the way). So they systematically create structures to tear down the existing pillars of society (family, church, rule of law). Haven’t you wondered what world view condones violence in the streets of Portland. Violence in the name of their brand of justice is celebrated. Wake up friends, Democrats are following the path of least resistance, the decent into man-made utopia.
Thanks for boldly sharing your views, Michael. I know that couldn’t have been easy. It’s a reminder to me that we’re not voting for a pastor for our nation – we’re voting for someone to represent our political values. Although my political values are Christian-based, that doesn’t necessitate my representative be a Christian – especially if the alternative candidates blatantly conflict with my values.
I think we need to remember that as much as we may abhor Trump’s unChristian behaviors, we can’t impose Christian values on someone who obviously doesn’t have the fruit of being a Christian. Further, we have no idea what kind of behaviors the other candidates may have – maybe they’re better at hiding their closeted skeletons while Trump seems to openly invite anyone into his closet.
interesting point…”maybe they’re better at hiding their closeted skeletons while Trump seems to openly invite anyone into his closet.”
A certain group of leaders claiming to be the voice of God to Christians blessed Trump and claimed he was a Christian. He was not. He even denounced Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount while speaking at the National Prayer Breakfast. I’ve never wanted to divide congregations or family due to worldly politics, but that just made it easier for this class of folks to reject me because I wasn’t like them.
I’m not supposed to be like other Christians, but like Christ. If Trump rejects Jesus and Christians support him because of it, then apparently they reject me too.
Thank means I’m in good company.
Its 3 am Monday morning and I’ve been thinking about this article all day Sunday, about how I can respond thoughtfully and succinctly. C.Michael Patton (CMP) I could seriously care less who you vote for because its your right to vote for whomever you choose. To be honest I voted for John MacArthur for president, we could use some Bible exposition in the Oval office. What bothered me most about this post was comparing DT to Christ. The opening question was,”Could Donald Trump be a Christ figure”? The answer is NO!!! IN FACT, There is no one who could be a Christ figure. Time and space doesn’t allow us opportunity to do a proper Christology. But in the name of succinctness Christ was unique meaning one of a kind. He was:
1. Uniquely Born
2. He lived a unique life
3 He suffered a unique death
4. He rose from the dead
5. He ascended back to Heaven
6. He will one day return
Like the old folks say, “Ain’t nobody like Jesus” and nor will there be anybody like Him. You can vote for whomever you like but don’t you dare insult the Lord of Heaven by stating that there is anyone on earth or in Heaven like Him.
Wow!!! 109 comments and everyone but two people see the problem with this post. Nearly everyone has focused on politics and ignored the theology. I am in agreement with an earlier post by Jeremy and a later post by Todd. President Donald Trump is in No way a Christ figure and not convinced that he is even a Christ follower. Like Todd stated, Jesus is unique. There is no one nor will there be anyone like the Lord Jesus Christ. Why? Because not only was Jesus fully man, He was also fully God at the same time. Who else do you know real or fiction who meets that criteria?
One of my favorite preachers SMH lockridge said it best in his sermon entitled, “That’s my king”. Here is just a little taste of this powerful testimony about JESUS THE CHRIST, NOT Donald the Trump “……..He’s enduringly strong. He’s entirely sincere. He’s eternally steadfast. He’s immortally graceful. He’s imperially powerful. He’s impartially merciful. That’s my King. He’s God’s Son. He’s the sinner’s Saviour. He’s the centerpiece of civilization. He stands alone in Himself. He’s honest. He’s unique. He’s unparalleled. He’s unprecedented. He’s supreme. He’s pre-eminent. He’s the grandest idea in literature. He’s the highest personality in philosophy. He’s the supreme problem in higher criticism. He’s the fundamental doctrine of historic theology. He’s the carnal necessity of spiritual religion. That’s my King.
He’s the miracle of the age. He’s the superlative of everything good that you choose to call Him. He’s the only one able to supply all our needs simultaneously. He supplies strength for the weak. He’s available for the tempted and the tried. He sympathizes and He saves. He’s the Almighty God who guides and keeps all his people. He heals the sick. He cleanses the lepers. He forgives sinners. He discharged debtors. He delivers the captives. He defends the feeble. He blesses the young. He serves the unfortunate. He regards the aged. He rewards the diligent and He beautifies the meek. That’s my King.
Do you know Him? Well, my King is a King of knowledge. He’s the wellspring of wisdom. He’s the doorway of deliverance. He’s the pathway of peace. He’s the roadway of righteousness. He’s the highway of holiness. He’s the gateway of glory. He’s the master of the mighty. He’s the captain of the conquerors. He’s the head of the heroes. He’s the leader of the legislatures. He’s the overseer of the overcomers. He’s the governor of governors. He’s the prince of princes. He’s the King of kings and He’s the Lord of lords. That’s my King.
His office is manifold. His promise is sure. His light is matchless. His goodness is limitless. His mercy is everlasting. His love never changes. His Word is enough. His grace is sufficient. His reign is righteous. His yoke is easy and His burden is light. I wish I could describe Him to you . . . but He’s indescribable. That’s my King. He’s incomprehensible, He’s invincible, and He is irresistible.
Let the Church say, Amen
While President Trump makes me cringe at times, he does indeed get things done. I can’t agree with your stance that if Biden was pro-life and Trump was pro-abortion, that you would vote for Biden. The whole Democrat Party is pro-abortion and bringing about socialism. They are on record for hating God. The comparison does not work because the comparison is invalid and we would have to rethink everything if the stances on abortion was reversed. What if I had wings? I don’t, so I have to deal with what is and not what if.
The negatives out of the way, I agree with pretty much all of your post. Remember when Mittens Romney said that he wasn’t running to be a spiritual leader? Although he was a fake Republican, I think that thought supports what you have said. Also, sanctimonious Christians are so unforgiving and unwilling to consider the blood of Christ and forgiveness. Trump says he is a Christian, and never said to be perfect. I would be kicked out of the Christian club if people heard me cussing out the computer yesterday.
My sister in law sent me Piper’s article as a means of getting me to look at Trump as unacceptable. She meant well, but Piper’s points were all based on Truth without Grace. From his viewpoint, David, Solomon, Moses and Paul should never have been allowed to lead. I found it incredibly legalistic and unforgiving. Thanks for joining the voices setting it straight. Truth matters, but only when viewed through the eyes of Grace.
As a Canadian evangelical. my only explanation for the support of Trump by white American evangelicals is they are greedy for power and privilege, or they have been blinded by Satan, the father of lies. Well, fear may be another factor; irrational fear hyped up by far-right media which paints all Democrats as evil, whereas I see them supporting Christian values like love of foreigners, respect for those of other religions, equality and justice.
Trump does not exhibit a single fruit of the Spirit. He cares for no one but himself, and is trading conservative judges for votes … using evangelicals for his own purpose which is authoritarian power. He actually enjoys sowing discord. Anyone who disagrees with him is mocked, fired or called fake news.
White evangelicals who support Trump need to take a good, hard look at whether their support for him is rooted in racism. I fear much of it is because you will be hard-pressed to find black supporters of Trump, including black evangelicals, or black people in his administration. Do you ever wonder about that? Probably not! Trump has empowered white supremacists and male chauvinists… of that there is no doubt.
Trump has no respect for the Constitution as many Republicans in high positions have even admitted. This makes it very dangerous to give him another 4 years to further shred it.
As for abortion, if it’s such a vital issue for you, I would think you would be more educated on the subject because it’s simply not true that Planned Parenthood has less funding now than during the time of Obama, or that there are fewer abortions during Democrat administrations. Republican-appointed judges have dominated the Supreme Court for 18 of the past 20 years, and have done little to nothing about abortion.
I’m praying the Trump nightmare for evangelicals outside of the USA will end after Nov. 3rd because the cause of Christ has been so severely damaged by American Christians, it is very hard to witness now. People say, “If those Trump supporters are Christians, I don’t want anything to do with Christianity” … and I understand their point. For American evangelicals who support Trump… may God have mercy on your deceived souls.
Thanks so much for your evaluation. I support Trump, as is obvious from the post. I am saddened that this is the only conclusion you can come to. You need to study more before coming to such conclusions. I would start by listening to people like Larry Elder, a black man, on YouTube. Here is a good one. https://youtu.be/piwaBO6U43U
I would also consider that the media could be biased. Just consider this a bit more deeply.
People support Trump because we support our constitution. It is that simple. I really don’t know how else to put it.
Very well put, Michael. I saw a good article on why people get worked up about politics which made a lot of sense. Unbelievably, it was on CNN…LOL…Peace my friend.
https://www.cnn.com/2017/01/03/health/political-beliefs-brain/index.html
Michael, I have not commented on your blog for a long while, but I could not let this one go by without a response. Insightful! On point! Well supported! Courageous! Truthful and yet polite toward Dr. Piper. Most of all, you employed critical thinking and did not fall into the error of making category errors in your logic (like Dr. Piper). Thank you.
I have to say that I believe Trump was put into power for a reason. For God does put people in power as it says in Romans 13:1. I like Jonathan Cahn’s perspective, and the way he compares Trump being a Jehu, taking on the corrupt Jezebel and Ahab aka Hilary and Bill. It may sound outrageous, but Cahn definitely makes a good case in his book the Paradigm. He also has some great insight on comparing 911 to Isaiah 9:10-11 (The bricks have fallen..)in his book “The Harbinger”. https://tristatevoice.com/2012/06/25/the-harbinger-911-was-a-warning-to-the-united-states/ and about Covid in the Harbinger 2. We are living in some trying times, but God is still in control, and He knows what he is doing. I know some Christians who still vote democrat, and I cannot see how anyone could vote for a party who condones abortion, amongst other questionable ethical decisions. As Cahn talks about in his book the Harbinger 2, God hated child sacrifice in the Old Testament, and punished Israel for condoning the practice. Do people actually think God has changed his view on killing the innocent? I don’t think so….https://www.openbible.info/topics/killing_innocent I believe God put Trump into power to give the nation more time to turn to Him, and like it says in 2 Chronicles 7:14 “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” God bless you and your family during this time, and thanks for your input on President Trump.
As a fellow believer, my heart hurt to see a respected leader of the faith (Dr. Piper) pen such (in my opinion) an ignorant and apathetic article. Thank you for refusing to stay silent and point people to the truth and errors in his post. I agree wholeheartedly with your assessment of Piper’s article and our current political plight.
Bit of a broad definition for a ‘Christ figure’, wouldn’t you say? A ‘man of action’ who stirs the pot and causes controversy? Lol I think most villains qualify as well.
Much love and respect, Michael. But this is discouraging content.
‘Jesus of Nazareth’ was some sort of maverick, jewish revisionist, teacher, or something like that. He took on poverty voluntarily. He did not seek to wield government power. He had no money, no institutional backing, no earthly power. He was violently suppressed by the relevant powers at the time.
Donald Trump spent his life cultivating the idea that he’s a morally bankrupt, over-consuming, elitist. He came from 1% wealth. Paid women for sex, cheated on every spouse he had, and Ran his charity so corruptly that it was forcibly shut down DURING HIS PRESIDENCY. I would also say he resorts to lots of purposeful deception and misinformation. But maybe that’s just me.
Trump is arguably the most powerful man *on the planet*. Yet has used his office and power on a daily basis to lash out and pick on people who have far less power and influence, often civilians. Often for nothing. And the on many occasions at some of the most vulnerable people in the world. He’s not a ‘Christ figure’ He’s a coward.
Christians drag out this ‘Jesus seemed mean and controversial at times, so I guess we can’t say..’ rhetoric every time they get enamored with some leader who is a bully. ‘He’s speaking as a modern prophet..’, ‘He’s driving the modern day moneylenders out..’, etc. etc.
If you want to be a one issue voter, that’s ok. Own that. But don’t drag out a tired old christian version of condoning a bully. It’s never been cool and not cool this time. All love, but shame on ya man.
Ps – You are still one of my favorite writers, Michael. But I feel so exasperated with the Christian communities support of Trump, I had to respond. I’m no longer involved in the church but I like how you write. I still check in just to read. Love and respect ❤️
Calling Trump a “Christ-figure” is more concerning than Piper not wanting to support evil one way or the other. I get it, I get what you’re saying… but still. I’ve voted Republican my whole life. I’ve grown up and worked in the “professional church” system, so I’m completely familiar with the crowd, the conversation, the lingo, the flaws, beauty, need, concerns, etc. The issues we are faced with is due to the fact that we have become a worldly church, and in the vacuum of the church becoming more of a weekend production company versus taking to the streets and just being the salt/light we were always intended to be, all hell has broken lose. The heated debate over public policy is because we, the church, have shrugged our shoulders one too many times, and now we’re in the state that we’re in, and rather turn to God, preach the Word, and actually BE the people of God, most have turned to rely more on public policy and the lazy push of a button every four years, while patting ourselves on the back like we actually did something. We have Christian influencers, like yourself, that have an audience, preaching the kingdom of America, and not the kingdom of God. From guns, to the economy, to abortion, and climate control… it’s all about self preservation, pride, & greed. Republicans scream at Democrats regarding their hatred for abortion (and rightly so), while Democrats do the same regarding their hatred for gun violence (and rightly so)… both take lives, both aren’t welcome in the Kingdom, yet I’ve watched, and listened to, and know 1,000’s of Evangelicals who don’t seem to care that guns take lives… they pride themselves in putting a bullet in somebody if they have to. I hate abortion, but it could be argued in the same light as those evangelicals that support guns. If a baby’s life is threatening that of the mother… is it right, like when your family is threatened by an intruder, to take the life, or just let the mother die? Again, I’m not supporting abortion, but my point is… it’s all f-d up, and none of it is “Christian”, whatever that means anymore, no matter how you spin it. So now we have a church that applauds a guy that damns everybody from his own staff, to the other side, never takes responsibility for his foolish words or actions, unless it makes him look good in the public eye, and when he tweets something stupid, the majority of the church, to their embarrassment, laughs it off and says, “Oh, that’s just Trump”. The church is worse off, and will pay in the days to come, because the majority of the church boisterously stands and applauds Trump while they yawn at the idea of having to stand up and sing a song to Jesus Christ. So the problem is not people like Piper, who take their relationship with Christ insanely serious… it’s people who argue that Trump is a “Christ figure” and think the push of a button is a worthy and noble decision to make up for the lackluster Christian life lived out on a daily basis. Don’t here me saying I’m perfect, but it’s the job of the Church to hold the middle and be the space where the Left and the Right can run to… we don’t draw lines in the sand based on policy because the “fix” isn’t public policy, it’s a changed heart, mind, and soul through the Gospel of Christ. The arrogance and fascist banter that comes from Trump is not amusing… it’s horrible. And no, I don’t think Biden is a worthy candidate for Presidency, nor do I agree with the Left on much (except for climate control, which is really creation simply crying because we’ve not been responsible in tending the earth as God would have us do so), but like the Left, the Right only sees what they want to see. I, like Piper, prefer the middle and am more interested in making choices that bring about meaningful change in regards to promoting and advancing the Kingdom of God in my sphere of influence versus defending the modern Rome called America. It will fall, like Jesus said, “a house divided will fall”, and the sooner the church can get on board with the real heaven, the real Kingdom, the less disappointed they’ll be when their precious America crumbles, proving America was never the goal… the Kingdom and glory of Christ has and always will be. I love America, I’m grateful for the men and women that have defended her, for the freedoms we have, and for being able to raise my family in this great nation, and I’m not hopeful for the fall of America… but I’m certain she will, if you believe the book of Revelation… she will, be it now or later…. it all will. The being said, we need more Piper’s in the world who see take the glory of Christ more serious, and who recognize America for what it is… an experiment, but not the truth and not the ultimate goal. I don’t mean to be offensive, friend, but I’m so over this “he said, she said” BS. Whether you’re on the left or the right, or in the middle like myself, it’s all about people… that’s all that matters… and God’s glory. All the best….
Superb analysis Chris
DON’T FOLLOW THE PIPER!!
You Americans (I am an Aussie), have a clear choice in this election. You are voting for a President who supports Christian values against a Democrat candidate who has no clue what those values are. For a Bible-believing Christian, this is not rocket science. You are not voting for a Pastor. You are voting for a President. SIMPLE!! Vote for the Party and Candidate that most closely resemble a Biblical standpoint. Pro-life, pro-Christian and pro-Israel! That should be a no-brainer Pastor Piper.
This is a brilliant analysis from the Christian perspective. Thank you for it.
The most apt verse to describe Donald Trump is the word of Jesus in john 8.44 “You are of your father, the devil and your will us to do your fathers desires. ..when he lies he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies”. This is Trump through and through as every honest, discerning and principled person knows.
Well said. Excellent, Scripture-based points. I, too, don’t know Trump’s personal character today or his heart as it relates to obedience and submission to God Almighty, but I do know some things Scripture says about it. I’ve put together some related thoughts from Scripture that supports voting for him or someone like him: the numerous examples of righteous men serving and influencing unrighteous, wicked leaders (https://scriptureinterpretsscripture.com/righteous-influence/) and examples of God working though very unrighteous leaders (https://scriptureinterpretsscripture.com/unrighteous-political-leaders/)
Just came across your blog completely by accident and this title grabbed me. I am a Canadian so watching American politics unravel really is just a guilty pleasure much as watching the Bachelor is. Despite thinking you must be a complete nutball for drawing the comparative between Christ and Trump I was lured in. I have to admit that your apologetic was alarming but in part convincing and I appreciated it. In particular I appreciated how you drew the reader back to the heart of the gospel message of grace. You did neglect a singular point however that is illustrated in the life of Moses. This has to do with consequences. Moses blew it as a leader when he took credit for something that was not of his doing. He lied. Moses repented and God forgave him. But despite Moses pleading for the consequence to be removed (not entering into the promised land) God let him experience it. The lesson? We are absolutely forgiven of our past sins and indiscretions but the consequences may stick. And every time we feel the sting of the consequence I suppose we ought to feel the weight of glory brought to bear to free us of the ultimate consequence of separation from our maker. This should keep us moving forward (even haltingly) in acting in a way that is different from the “before”. So, while I can concede the comparative of “the Donald” and Christ I am not seeing so much of the transformative that flows from grace out of the transgression. I am however seeing some of the consequence for Donald.
I have been so bothered by the son of Billy Graham comparing Trump to Christ and the 10 Republicans who had the courage to stand up for our Constitution rather than Trump, as betrayers like Judas, saying nothing about the people hurt or killed, property destroyed, or damage to our democracy perpetrated by these rioters. And to witness those homegrown enemies of our very democracy stand in the Senate chambers and “pray” even as they rioted, rampaged, stole, beat, and even killed was beyond belief. All this they claim was because of fraud for which there has been no proof offered. Thus almost every single judge, many appointed by Trump, and all 9 Supreme Court Justices, ALL 9, said there is no proof of fraud that changed the results. Has our faith become so watered down that we excuse lying, corruption, bullying, destroying families through separation, abusing the hurt, the vulnerable, the poor, the stranger within our gates, and making fun of disabled reporters I agree with all Chris said above. Something I saw during the riots, terrorist attack, that perfectly summarizes the problem as I see it. I saw a group of rioters in a lift lowering that United States flag, the flag for which so many lives have been given to defend. And then, they hoisted a flag of equal size. And instead, above the Capital, waved a TRUMP flag.
Enough said.
Completely agree, Ann. Unbelievable that people who think of themselves as patriots are reduced to this.
I agree, and would be interested to hear an updated article from the author. He still to this day has not condemned the attack on our Capitol. I believe he is dangerous. And though our actions do matter more, scripture also says “From the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks”. I don’t see evidence of a heart that loves the Lord, God’s creation, our nation’s veterans, etc.