Lesson 2: Christian Characteristics and the Election
I was surprised at the response to last week’s lesson. I don’t think I ever had so many people write or speak to me about what I posted. Quite frankly, I expected dead silence. Obviously, many share my concerns about the presidential election.
Let me reiterate what prompted me. Believe it or not, I think I might have watched every Trump rally. I have also checked his social media posts at least three times a week. I am fascinated because I can not believe what I hear and read.
With this in mind, I read the four gospels in one sitting. That made me even more uncomfortable because every way Jesus described God’s people was just the opposite of how Donald Trump presented himself at his rallies and on social media.
The multiplicity was so compelling I decided to list these contrasts to make clear how inclusive this is.
Jesus repeatedly calls for humility. His followers are humble before God’s majesty. They appreciate the gifts other people offer. Trump, on the other hand, blatantly brags about himself, claiming he is the best at everything from intelligence to sexual power. He regularly says he is the only one who can save our nation from economic collapse and endless warfare.
Jesus warns about judging others. Recognizing the dignity and worth of all God’s children, we are not to call anyone fool. Over and against this, Trump blatantly engages in name-calling. He mocks others as stupid or incapable, ugly or disgusting, criminal or communist.
Confessing sins comes naturally to those who follow Jesus. They realize they fall short of the mark. Perhaps Trump’s most telling remark is claiming he could not think of anything for which he is sorry.
Telling the truth is a mark of the Christian. Jesus calls for such integrity that a person’s “Yes” is “Yes.” Trump constantly lies to make himself look good or to win a deal.
Jesus speaks of love as caring for all people. His supreme example is the Good Samaritan who helps a foreigner. Trump rages against immigrants as criminals and freeloaders destroying our country, promising mass deportations.
Christian love shares self and possessions with others. Trump describes sharing as communism. He champions putting yourself, your group, and your nation first.
Jesus calls for noticing the needy and making special efforts to help the poor. Trump frequently calls them losers and constantly compliments the wealthy because they are successful.
Love transforms people and communities making enemies friends. Trump begins almost all his speeches claiming he loves the people gathered because they support him. He also continually uses love to express being sexually attracted to beautiful women.
Jesus’ teaching is aimed at overcoming the prejudices dividing us. Trump plays on all sorts of racial, sexual, and class prejudices to attract followers.
Very importantly, Christians are to forgive those who offend them, turning the other cheek when struck. Trump threatens retribution for those not supporting him, often describing it as violent and bloody.
Jesus’ people are to heal and unite. Trump’s strategy clearly is to divide and conquer.
Jesus’ people sacrifice for the common good. Trump sees success as making deals that guarantee you win.
The very comprehensiveness of the list is what prompted me to write the series.
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Thank you for presenting this so comprehensively! Pretty much all of these thoughts have crossed my mind at one point, but the way you itemized them was very impactful. I just struggle with how people can consider themselves a follower of Jesus and a supporter of Donald Trump. To me, these two things are 100% contradictory.