Character
“Politics makes strange bedfellows” (Puck Magazine, 1899), Artwork by Louis Dalrymple, Library of Congress (Digital ID ppmsca.28593) (PD-old-70-expired)
The following excerpt is from an editorial in Christianity Today, which has caused a great deal of controversy [1]. The editorial addresses the character of Pres. Donald Trump, the actions from which his impeachment arises, and the impact on Christian witness.
“…the facts…are unambiguous: The president of the United States attempted to use his political power to coerce a foreign leader to harass and discredit one of the president’s political opponents. That is not only a violation of the Constitution; more importantly, it is profoundly immoral…
Trump’s evangelical supporters have pointed to his Supreme Court nominees, his defense of religious liberty, and his stewardship of the economy, among other things, as achievements that justify their support of the president. We believe the impeachment hearings have made it absolutely clear, in a way the Mueller investigation did not, that President Trump has abused his authority for personal gain and betrayed his constitutional oath…
To the many evangelicals who continue to support Mr. Trump in spite of his blackened moral record, we might say this: Remember who you are and whom you serve. Consider how your justification of Mr. Trump influences your witness to your Lord and Savior…”
The hope among Evangelicals has been that an alliance with Pres. Trump – and silence with regard to his defects of character – would provide this country with a sufficiently conservative judiciary to restore the rights of the unborn [2].
Unfortunately, that hope is misguided.
Without support from the populace, morality cannot be successfully imposed on a nation by fiat. The Prohibition fiasco illustrates that fact. Tragically, the majority are not clamoring for protection of the unborn.
There are few, if any, options available. Certainly, the Democratic Party has made support of the so called “right to choose” a litmus test for its candidates.
Under the circumstances, there are Christians who feel political expedience justifies a compromise of principles. Politics can make strange bedfellows.
Nonetheless, we may want to tread carefully. If Christians do not focus on living out their faith, and forego political aspirations, we risk losing our aspirations and our integrity both.
“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men” (Matt. 5: 13).
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[1] Christianity Today, “Trump Should Be Removed from Office” by Mark Galli, 12/19/19, https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2019/december-web-only/trump-should-be-removed-from-office.html.
[2] To his credit, Pres. Trump has, also, reduced corporate tax rates; revamped the North American Free Trade Agreement to include greater labor protections; implemented a farm bailout; and extended paid leave to federal employees. While narrowing eligibility for Food Stamps, he has resisted cuts to Social Security and Medicare.
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A Lawyer's Prayers 
Wonderful post Anna. I suppose I must count myself among those who feel they simply have no choice in who we elect to represent us in Washington. I cannot of good conscience support someone who I believe to be “Christian” in name only, particularly someone who has aligned with Christianity because it is convenient and expedient to do so. Of course, I do not pretend to know the man’s heart. How could anyone? I do know his actions however, and one cannot deny the Biblical truth that “we shall know them by their fruits”.
On the other hand, as a Christian I could never vote for any candidate who supports the murder of the unborn. To do so is unconscionable and against all Biblical principles regarding life. As you say, this is the litmus test for any Democratic candidate, thus excluding me from ever considering a Democrat to represent me.
The saving grace in all of this for me personally is that I understand that this life is temporary at best, and this world is surely not my home for long!
Have a wonderful day my friend!
Thank you so much for commenting, Ron. I was worried about alienating readers. While I recognize that there are many Christians who support this president (and I respect the fact that viewpoints can differ), I genuinely fear for our witness. Like you, my friend, I strive for an eternal perspective. Of course, I do not always get that right!
I can relate Anna. In the midst of so much social turmoil it can be difficult to keep our “eyes in the prize”. One day at a time is how I’ve learned to approach things.
Excellent post Anna!
Thank you, Nicodemas.
For a leader, it might be difficult to impose one’s moral values on someone else’s individual freewill (medically-assisted abortions happen even without registered facilities). However, s/he has the influence, and even the power to author policies that would protect the poor, the disadvantaged, the migrants. Also, if more people will come to know the good news of God, then existing abortion facilities will just go into disuse and disrepair and, until then, they are accountable to the Living God.
I also take a close look on policies toward the people and nation of Israel… a country that blesses them will also be blessed.
I tend to agree w/ you that abortions will continue whether legal or not. Pres. Trump’s policies toward the poor have perhaps most disturbed me. Admittedly, America’s improved relationship w/ Israel can be viewed as having biblical connotations. That clashes, however, w/ the antisemitism the president has encouraged.
And another disturbing thing is that the poor do not see it, and try to put back in power (even to the point of lawlessness) those very people who oppress them.
True, a government can choose to ally itself with the political country of Israel, and yet condone antisemitism against those in the diaspora/nation in exile.
Character tells so much about one’s capacity to lead, and yet, people turn a blind eye, even celebrate their wicked leaders. Yes, we need to remember Who we are ultimately serving, and to which kingdom we belong. Bless you, Anna.
And bless you! It means a great deal to me that there is someone else out there concerned about these issues.
Same here, Anna. I was starting to despair. I am thankful that you are writing about these things. God bless. xx