Donald Trump has been held up as a man ordained by God to
lead the Untied States out of the wilderness of wokism and other far left
ideologies. This has been promoted by
some elements of Evangelical fundamentalist Christianity, especially those who
proclaim themselves to be Christian Nationalists. Now in my view Christian Nationalist fall
into the same category as the Holy Roman Empire when Voltaire joked that it was
not Holy or Roman or an Empire.
Christian Nationalists are neither Christian nor Nationalist. Well, perhaps that doesn’t quite fit as they
are Nationalists of the worst variety; a Nationalist being defined as “a person who strongly identifies with their own
nation and vigorously supports
its interests, especially to the exclusion or detriment of the interests
of other nations.”
Those Christians who support Trump dismiss criticism of his
moral failures and narcissism and generally unchristian behaviour to maintain
that, if he is not the “second coming of God”, he is being used by God to
fulfil God’s purpose just as God used a non-Israelite, King Cyrus, to return
the exiled Israelites back to the Promised Land.
What Christian commentators seem to have overlooked is the
possibility that Trump can be seen as the Antichrist who’s coming is foretold
in the Bible including the so-called Trump Bible which Donald Trump is hawking for
$59.99. Let’s explore the concept of the
Antichrist and see if Donald Trump fits the bill. Note, I have had the able assistance of
ChatGPT in this exposition.
The concept of the Antichrist
is rooted in Christian eschatology, primarily appearing in the New Testament
and referring to a figure who opposes Christ and deceives humanity in the end
times. Different traditions interpret the idea differently, but there are
common themes in its description. Biblical
Characteristics of the Antichrist:
- Deception
and Charisma: The Antichrist is described as a figure who deceives
many through persuasive speech and charisma (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10).
- Claims
of Divinity or Authority: Often depicted as someone who exalts
themselves above God or divine law (2 Thessalonians 2:4).
- Opposition
to Truth: Promotes falsehoods and leads people away from Christian
teachings (1 John 2:22).
- Global
Influence: Exercises power on a large scale, often linked to
political or economic authority (Revelation 13:7).
- Criticisms
and Allegations Against Donald Trump: Critics of Donald Trump who draw
parallels to the Antichrist typically focus on his perceived
characteristics or actions that align with some of these themes:
- Charisma
and Polarization: Trump's ability to captivate a large following
while deeply dividing public opinion has led some to see him as a figure
capable of mass persuasion.
- Self-Exaltation:
His frequent boasts and statements about his abilities or accomplishments
have been interpreted by some as self-aggrandizing.
- Allegations
of Deception: Critics often accuse him of spreading misinformation or
prioritizing personal gain over truth.
- Political
Power and Influence: His role as a prominent global figure with
significant influence on political and social movements aligns with the
concept of a powerful leader in some Antichrist narratives.
From my perspective, I believe
that many charismatic leaders of all kinds are always appearing on the world
stage. This has occurred in the past and
will undoubtedly occur in the future.
The archetype of the Antichrist reflects the possibilities that lie
within people and wait to be activated by individuals with the abilities and
perspectives and morals (or lack thereof) which will appear Antichrist like. This has occurred in the past with people
such as Napoleon, Hitler, and even Ronald Regan. These claims often arise in times of
political turmoil or division, reflecting societal fears rather than theological
consensus. Donald Trump does indeed have
some or many of the characteristics of an Antichrist. However, I don’t believe he will be on center
stage beyond the next four years.
Personally, the biblical
prediction of an Antichrist is one which is a matter of belief and
unbelief. It may come to pass as the
second coming of Jesus may come to pass.
I will let that mystery be and be concerned with how to live in this
world as a Christian. That is enough on
my journey. I hope you can navigate the
possibility on yours.
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