Divine Right in the Age of Trump: An Evangelical Perspective on Political Virtue
Divine Right in the Age of Trump: An Evangelical Perspective on Political Virtue
In the world of American politics, particularly within the evangelical community, the concept of 'divine right' still holds significant sway. This article explores how evangelical Christians justify and rationalize Donald Trump's leadership style through the lens of divine appointment.
The Concept of Divine Right
Divine right, a centuries-old belief that monarchs receive their authority from God, thus making their actions virtuous and justifiable, has found a modern incarnation among certain evangelical groups. This perspective has been used to defend Trump's often morally ambiguous actions and leadership style.
Evangelical Interpretation of Trump
Evangelical preachers frequently argue that Trump possesses a form of 'divine right' in his presidency. They contend that his actions, despite their apparent sinfulness or bluntness, are justified because he represents God's will.
Compare Trump to a pilot or a bus driver who simply takes people where they want to go. This argument suggests that their hiring him is not about his morality but his ability to deliver results.
Some even go as far as comparing Trump to a thug, suggesting that his actions are justified if they serve the greater good.
By relying on this rationale, they sidestep the need for a moral compass, citing divine protection and justification.
The Hypocrisy at Play
It's important to note the hypocrisy in this belief system. For example, King David and Solomon in the Bible, known for their wars and infidelities, were still considered divinely appointed leaders. Evangelicals apply similar logic to Trump, insulating him from moral scrutiny by invoking divine protection.
For many in the evangelical community, politics and morality are separate domains. The distinction is blurred, with their leaders often praising Trump despite his disregard for ethical standards. This acceptance reflects a broader trend of prioritizing political outcomes over moral considerations.
Beyond the Political Divide
It's crucial to differentiate between evangelical Christians who align with right-wing politics and those who use their faith to advocate for social justice. Evangelicals who supported Trump were often driven by political expediency rather than a deep-seated religious belief.
For these supporters, Trump became a 'political hitman' rather than a president. His ability to hurt the people they intended to harm became a justification for their support, even if it meant ignoring his moral failings.
The ideological battle is complex, but it's clear that the use of divine right to defend Trump is rooted in a persistent blind spot regarding moral accountability.
Concluding Thoughts
This article is not a broad condemnation of evangelical beliefs but a focused critique of the warped logic used to justify Trump's actions. While many evangelicals adhere to traditional moral values, the application of 'divine right' to modern politics exposes a significant gap in their worldview.
For those who view this as an insult or personal attack, it's crucial to acknowledge the broader context. Political discourse often becomes highly charged, but it's important to engage in rational debate rather than resorting to personal attacks.