In the context of preserving America as a beacon for Christian faith and evangelism, Donald Trump’s policies and actions have shown a commitment to several key areas:
Defending Religious Freedom: Trump’s tenure was marked by significant steps towards protecting religious liberties, such as:
Executive Orders: He signed executive orders aimed at protecting religious freedom, including the right for religious institutions to not be compelled to perform or recognize same-sex marriages against their religious beliefs.
Judicial Appointments: Trump appointed numerous judges, including Supreme Court Justices, known for their conservative and often pro-religious liberty stances. These appointments could ensure long-term protection of Christian values in law.
Supporting Christian Causes Globally: Trump has expressed solidarity with persecuted Christian communities worldwide, advocating for policies that might protect these groups:
Foreign Policy: His administration’s policies towards countries where Christians face persecution were notably firm, potentially reducing religious oppression through diplomatic and economic pressures.
Advocacy for Traditional Values: Trump’s platform inherently supports traditional values that align with Christian teachings:
Pro-Life Stances: His administration’s efforts to limit abortion rights resonate with many Christian voters who see this as a fundamental religious liberty issue.
Traditional Marriage: Although not always through legislation, Trump’s personal stance and some of his judicial appointments suggest a support for maintaining traditional definitions of marriage.
Cultural Influence: Trump’s vocal support for Christian festivals, like Christmas, and his engagement with Christian leaders and events signal a cultural environment where Christian expression is encouraged:
Public Acknowledgment: His frequent references to “Merry Christmas” and participation in Christian services reflect a public leader who values Christian heritage.
Economic Policies and Community: By promising economic recovery and job growth, Trump indirectly supports the financial stability of churches and ministries, which rely on a prosperous community:
Economic Growth: Policies aimed at invigorating the economy could mean more resources for Christian outreach, both domestically and abroad.
Direct Engagement with Christian Communities: Trump’s direct appeals to the Christian vote, especially in pivotal moments, underscore his recognition of the Christian community’s influence:
Campaign Promises: Promises to protect religious symbols, like the Ten Commandments in public spaces, directly cater to Christian sentiments.
Contrast with Opponents: Trump’s policies and rhetoric are often positioned as a stark contrast to those of his political opponents, who might support policies seen as undermining Christian values:
Education and Speech: Policies on education, free speech, and religious symbols in public places differ significantly, with Trump’s approach generally favoring Christian liberties.
In essence, Donald Trump’s presidency could be viewed as a bulwark against secular trends that might erode religious liberties. By advocating for policies that align with Christian values, promoting religious freedom, and appointing judges who uphold these freedoms, Trump’s election could be seen as a strategic move for Christians aiming to maintain and expand their influence, both in America and globally, for spreading the gospel. This perspective isn’t just about policy; it’s about cultural and legal support for Christian practices and evangelism at a time when such support is increasingly contested.
In light of Kamala Harris’s public stances and actions, one could argue that her commitment to Christian principles is more performative than profound. Her policies and support for issues like abortion rights, which directly contradict traditional Christian teachings on the sanctity of life, suggest a selective application of faith. This selective adherence raises questions about the depth of her Christian commitment. Is her faith a genuine guiding principle, or merely a political tool, tailored to appeal to certain voter demographics without fundamentally influencing her legislative or executive decisions? With this discrepancy between her professed faith and her political actions one must conclude that for Harris, Christianity serves more as a cultural backdrop than a moral compass, casting doubt on the authenticity of her Christian convictions in the political arena.