The real MAGA campaign begins
Death sells in today’s America, and the president is pinning his reelection hopes on it
So the real MAGA party has launched its election campaign. On Jan. 21, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris made it clear via X that the centerpiece of their push for another four years in office will be their commitment to Make Abortion Great Again.
It will be interesting to see whether this campaign—with their desire to see the right of 50 percent of the American population to decide whether the most vulnerable people in our society live or die—rises to the level of meriting a hashtag. Will #NeverBiden prove as popular among those evangelical #NeverTrumpers who objected so strongly to the former president’s boorishness and alternative MAGA rhetoric? And given that this push is also profoundly—one might almost say “systemically”—racist since abortion disproportionately affects a disproportionate number of the African American community, one must assume those same evangelical people will be denouncing it as a form of neo-Nazism, as fascist, and as an existential threat to American democracy.
If not, it will reveal something very interesting and disturbing about the selective nature of evangelical outrage on the left—the very thing that the #NeverTrumpers deftly exposed among certain elements of the evangelical right.
But beyond shining a light on the moral problems encountered by those who too closely identify their faith with political stands, this new MAGA rhetoric indicates something disturbing about the nation as a whole. Successful politics in a democracy is always to some extent a quest to find out what the people want and then to sell it to them. It’s what Trump managed to do in 2016 with his bluster about Making America Great Again. He tapped into desires that were already there. And when Biden and Harris launch their campaign with a promise to Make Abortion Great Again they too are appealing to something that they think will strike a popular chord.
That is surely an indictment of our society as a whole. It is not Biden and Harris who want us to think that killing the most vulnerable in society is a good thing. It is because so many of us are already there that they make their pitch. Death sells in today’s America—a fact that speaks of a world where the individual is king, where morality has become a simplistic matter of feelings and sentiment, and where human life has been devalued.
That is not to say that some women seeking abortions are not weak and vulnerable themselves. But it is to say that we are now at a point where we as a society see the answer to their weakness and vulnerability as lying in the destruction of those even weaker and even more vulnerable. And we all know that for the progressive elites, abortion is not primarily about rape and incest. That is a convenient cover story that exploits real victims for a larger purpose. Such victims typically do not “shout” their abortions or wear tee shirts celebrating them. No, the tragic stories that drive the public face of the debate are cover for the justification of a general assault on the unborn.
November will once again be morally tricky for American Christians. Personally, I cannot see myself voting for either of the likely candidates. But remembering that the Democrats chose to lead with a call for the right to kill the weakest and most vulnerable should, one hopes, give pause for those who think that the return of Donald Trump to the White House would mean the end of civilization. That Making Abortion Great Again is seen by the Democrats as a vote winner indicates that civilization, at least as currently constituted in America, is probably a misnomer anyway.
These daily articles have become part of my steady diet. —Barbara
Sign up to receive the WORLD Opinions email newsletter each weekday for sound commentary from trusted voices.Read the Latest from WORLD Opinions
Owen Anderson | How universities are rebranding their diversity, equity, and inclusion policies
Josh Reavis | When it comes to sin, don’t be a “Florida man”
Jordan J. Ballor | A viral show has a lot to teach us about work and rest
Joe Clements | Churches must do a better job of helping young Christians find spouses
Please wait while we load the latest comments...
Comments
Please register, subscribe, or log in to comment on this article.
BOTH "those who think that the return of Donald Trump to the White House would mean the end of civilization" AND those who think civilization's problems will be solved with DJT must know both are false.
The Platform, Policy , and Party matter even over personality & personal problems.
The long history of democrat party of slavery, lynching, jimcrow, eugenics, abortion, infanticide, socialistic redistribution of 'others tax dollars' to now greater divisive marxist policies with a platform representing the party's extremism must be stopped.
B I N A R Y outcome: you either promote more poor policy or you advance better solutions for our nation. Its about others, not you -your conscience should burn thinking of another term of the leftist, abotionists & woke policies shoved at us. Easy.....either vote against biden ....or for Trump
Perfectly put, Paul.
"It's about others."
It's hard for people to stop being inflamed by personality & start focusing on party platform & policy, when all media venues drive people to being inflamed by personality & personal problems.
Smoke & mirrors. The sky is falling! It's all the rage.
Also troubling, how folks will think that you think "civilization's problems will be solved with DJT"... simply bc you support DJT policies -- which obviously "advance better solutions for our nation."
There's no "salvation complex" @ MAGA. DJT is merely (perhaps potentially) a last ditch, common sense effort to slow down the rapidly accelerating decline of our civilization. Nothing more.
Christians ought to know that no single political person can "restore the soul of our nation."
That is a mindless mantra from the so-called "progressive" Marxists, who bring no true progress.
Biden may not even be on the DEM ticket in November... but this is about party & platform.
We have a vote coming up... and as you say, it's BINARY.
It's not binary, although that's certainly what the two dominant parties wish you to believe. By keeping both sides in constant fear of how much worse the other side is, they prevent us from considering other possibilities and having a real choice. (Also, the mathematics of our plurality voting system don't help either.)
hummm name the third party victor..... yes it is either D or R one or the other: binary outcome.
yes a third party vote, is a vote for the D ( in our case)
"the mathematics of our plurality voting system don't help either" yes STOP/OPPOSE Rank Choice Voting
We won't have a third party victor until enough people quit perpetuating the insanity of the current two-party system. And, no, a vote for a third party is not a vote for D, nor is it a vote for R. That "us vs. them" mentality got us to where we are.
As for Ranked Choice Voting, that would be a huge step in the right direction. Hard to imagine why anyone would oppose a system that more fully represents the preferences of the electorate and eliminates the so-called "spoiler effect". That's why the political establishment opposes it - it would loosen their lock on power.
Help me understand your viewpoint, "it's not binary."
As I see it...
It's not BINARY in the Primary... that's where you get to vote your pure conscience.
I supported several Republicans in the 2016 Primary before Trump waxed them all off the stage.
I notice in this primary, not nearly as many Republicans are as "sick and tired" of Trump, as it often seems in certain circles. He trouncing the competition by loads, so far. I watched Vivek's campaign with keen interest, bc I always hear people complain: "I wish we had someone with Trump's policies, but without all the baggage." But VR got no traction. Noted.
It's BINARY in the General (w/ rare exceptions)... that's where you get to vote your pure choice.
Will RJK Jr. run? Maybe. Will it make a difference? Maybe, but only as spoiler... not a victor.
No one is "keeping me in constant fear of how much worse the other side is."
The other side is worse. I won't bore you by chronicling the myriad ways that ought to be obvious to objective observers of peace & war, economics & prosperity, and values.
What I mean by "it's not binary" is that there can be more than two options in the general election. It hasn't always been R and D, and it doesn't have to keep just being those two. It's up to us!
Do I think a third party is realistically going to win in 2024? Of course not, but that doesn't mean those of us who would like another option can't work to start building something for the future. It's a long-term game. If we keep telling ourselves "there are only two options and anything else is a wasted vote", that's exactly what we'll get. It's a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Perhaps one might wonder why anyone would even want another option. Personally, I'd like leaders who will strive to achieve what the Framers intended - a constitutional republic, limited government, personal liberty, fiscal responsibility, free markets, sound money, and generally avoiding foreign entanglements.
The Republican Party used to stand for these things, or at least they said they did, but I don't believe they do anymore. Both major parties continue to run up the national debt with reckless abandon. The government continues to grow by leaps and bounds no matter who holds office. The swamp just gets deeper and deeper regardless.
I don't think the Republican Party can be salvaged. It's too far gone. Who was it that said you can't put new wine in old wineskins? It's time to let it go and do something new.
I agree w/ you, Spock… in spirit & truth.
I’m a fan of the Framers, too, and pine for one who might embody those principles.
I’m also astonished how quickly the extreme & vicious divide developed between 2 parties w/ Adams vs Jefferson. We started leaving behind the ideals of our “Republic” as soon as it started, to say nothing of the salvaging the rotten “Republican” party.
Here’s the ironic reality you may/not agree or find compelling:
You CAN put new wine in old wine skins… BUT you better be ready for the mess when your wine skin stretches apart from the pressure inside… until it explodes.
Like you, I’m skeptical about salvaging the Republican party. But rather than try introducing a 3rd party that never actually emerges to make a difference against the devious & devastating Democrats, let’s try something radically new… go ahead and pour new wine in the old wine skin.
Pour Trump into the Republican party… a vibrant Red, White & Blue blend w/ hints of fury, vim & vigor… aged in oak barrels from NY.
Trump is not really a “Republican” IMHO.
And I don’t really know what he “really believes” about the Framers. What I do know, is he campaigned, governed & pushed for policies that were astonishingly Framer-friendly and mostly aligned w/ my values — even if by accident — for 4 years. He was an unknown, odd enigma in 2016… but not anymore. Now, he’s a known (still odd) quantity. He was found to be tried & true to attempt to follow through on his old school “conservative” MAGA vision. And imagine how much more success Trump would have had in restoring the Repulic, if the back-stabbing Republican party had not worked against him — and still do. And he did not start WW3 or abolish the constitution, or reign as a dictator as all the fear mongers predicted – and still do.
So, imagine (if you will)... Trump is the 3rd party candidate.
He blows up the Republican party from the inside and rebuilds another party in the process. This, while defeating the Democrats.
No, he’s not Washington or Madison, but he walks & talks more like them than anyone in the modern era. Yes, he has flaws, but nothing like he's been framed. So, as you hope for a 3rd way, perhaps you consider his possibility.
Thoughts?
Thank you Dr. Trueman for continuing to write these articles and speak truth that we all need to hear.
Would you throw your vote away and write in a 3rd party? How would that help the weak and unborn?
I intend to vote the way God is leading me to vote, whether it’s for a major party candidate or a third party candidate. I think he probably cares about the weak and the unborn more than we do.
God obviously cares more about the weak and the unborn more than we do; that’s not in question.
The questions are:
What does that have to do with this conversation? Will we care enough as much as we ought to… and act accordingly?
(Edited) This is as clear as I can be, Scots WhaHae: I doubt any humans care “as much as we ought to.” That’s why I am not just trusting my own wisdom or that of other humans but earnestly seeking God’s will. I think seeking God’s will and doing it as best I can is the best I can possibly do-for me, for the gospel, and for society.
Thanks for making that clear, NotSilent.
We’re in agreement, there.
“Lean not on your own understanding.”
What I’m not clear on is the amazing level of angst and indecision Carl & Co. all have here...
Dr. Trueman’s entire article was wailing and gnashing of teeth about the woes of ROE RESTORED — a sentiment largely echoed in the comments — yet Carl & Co. instantly insist “this is a tough choice” & “we need to pray” for the good of the gospel & society.
No one has made it clear, why it isn’t clear who the clear choice is in this arena.
People seem to be employing “prayer” as a coping mechanism to avoid the obvious, because they’ve been led to believe Trump is evil & an existential threat. If that were true, I would appreciate all the consternation and consideration for this election and our nation.
But it isn’t. So let’s not seek guidance to get over false flags. Just remove the flags.
Correct me if I’m wrong, but I think I’m picking up from you a position that you hate abortion, but … there are other things are weighing on your scales…. “For me, for the gospel, and for society.”
Forget voting FOR Trump for a second…
If keeping ROE off the federal books isn’t enough to seal the deal in voting AGAINST Biden, what would be? What are the other issues you are concerned about that you believe Biden deserves your vote & makes you hold your nose to vote against him?
If you care to share
I obviously can’t address Mr. Trueman’s feelings and won’t attempt to do so. As for myself, I never said I thought Mr. Biden deserved my vote, Scotts WhaHae. I will say clearly that I don’t intend to vote for him.
I have already shared my other views about the election on this thread in a response to you below, and don’t see the benefit in repeating them.
I didn't mean to assert you were voting for Biden.
I'm simply asking about the collective sense of fear and uncertainty about "how hard the decision is" in this election. No one has actually addressed my inquiries... and no one has to do so. But I thought someone might.
I'm not "patrolling the playground"... just seeking clarity amongst fellow WORLD readers who clearly share a different opinion, which all are free to hold. I'm just wondering why.
Thanks for trying to provide as much clarity as you have, NotSilent.
Peace
Thanks for your respectful response, Scotts WhaHae. I wish we all had perfect knowledge, clarity, and unity; but, unfortunately, we don’t. Even biblical leaders disagreed…sometimes rather strongly. I will obviously express opinions; but I don’t claim to know everything and definitely don’t claim to know what God would have other believers do. It is my hope that we would all be united in seeking God’s will with all our hearts and in spurring each other on in love and good deeds.
The Democratic and Republican parties want you to believe you are "throwing away your vote" by voting for anything other than the current two-party duopoly. Keeping a fearful and angry population divided into two warring factions with an "us vs. them" mentality is how these two parties ensure their stranglehold on power continues unabated.
But these two parties have not always been the dominant parties in U.S. politics, and there's no reason to believe they always will be. In my opinion, they no longer serve our national interests and it's time to move on and build something else. It may take several election cycles to accomplish anything, but that doesn't mean it isn't worth the effort.
The definition of "throwing away your vote" is choosing more of the same insanity from the two dominant parties: out of control government that just keeps getting bigger and bigger regardless who is in power, reckless spending, unsustainable debt, unresponsive institutions that routinely usurp our rights, etc.
p.s. You don't have to "write in" a third party. There will be other candidates listed on the ballot in all 50 states.
On the issue of Abortion, our culture is even worse than you state above. Most people admit that a fetus is a human being. But they still want the right to kill it. They specifically want the "freedom" to do what they KNOW is wrong!
(now, that's a sick society!)
Absolutely
Regardless of if Trump is the Republican nominee or not the Republican party will die, if it does not face the insanity of legalized infanticide. I will continue to say this. Stop calling it "abortion" - it is infanticide. The word abortion can and is manipulated to mean whatever serves the Left's interest. Medically speaking, a miscarriage is termed an "abortion." The word infanticide clearly defines what is happening - the deliberate, intentional murder of an infant.
Speak to legalized infanticide in a historical context. Just as the Democrat party supported the classification of slaves as less than human, today it supports the classification of infants in the womb as not human or less than human. They camouflage their savagery with euphemisms - with slavery it was a "peculiar institution", today they call it "reproductive health care". If this nation survives, future generations will look back at this period of American history in the same or even a harsher light as it now does slavery. Those in support of legalized infanticide are on the wrong side of history because they are on the wrong side of God,
Well said.
Let's support the right side of history.... if Trump is the Republican nominee, or not.
"It is not Biden and Harris who want us to think that killing the most vulnerable in society is a good thing. It is because so many of us are already there that they make their pitch. Death sells in today’s America."
Factually false.
Biden and Harris are just the two latest loud-mouthed advocates for abortion, but DEMs have openly advocated for abortion long before abortion became cool in America.
Long before "more than 50% of Americans found abortion morally acceptable" (last year), abortion was and always has been the center piece of the Democrat platform... for decades. Even when abortion was "largely unfavorable" to "most Americans," liberals on the left -- led by Hillary @ Co. -- flew the death flag loud and proud. They didn't keep it under wraps just because "most Americans" differed with their campaigns on so-called "women's rights." No, they chanted, marched, funded and "campaigned" for abortion every election cycle.
It's not accurate to assume/assert that Biden & Harris don't want us "to think that killing the most vulnerable in society is a good thing." That's exactly what they want you to think. Their Democrat friends have been lobbying, lying, teaching and manipulating the mindset of society since the 1960's to get the majority of Americans to think that way... just like they do.
The reason "so many of us are already there" (now) is precisely because DEMs are seeing the fruits of their abortion labor. It's not a random coincidence that Americans largely favor abortion today.
It's a self-fulfilling prophecy.
It's not a just a recent random issue that Biden/Harris just happened to come across while scanning frantically for a favorable poll number they could "pitch" to political pirañas and catch easy votes.
No, this is their long-range game-plan and it's starting to pay off in the percentages now.
Just like they hoped for so long.
These guys are gruesome and shrewd... they want what they want... and they want Roe Restored.
Why let them off as merely poll shopping stooges?
"Personally, I cannot see myself voting for either of the likely candidates. But remembering that the Democrats chose to lead with a call for the right to kill the weakest and most vulnerable should, one hopes, give pause for those who think that the return of Donald Trump to the White House would mean the end of civilization."
Yes, Yes... let's hope it might "give pause"... ??
Incredible... Carl's conclusion is what gives me pause.
Let me get this straight...
Carl is bothered enough at the current undercurrent of our misnomered "civilization" to write an article decrying the Democrats who have just doubled down by running on death, because "death sells" in our death-loving culture. But, Truman is so put off by Trump's "boorishnesss and alternative MAGA rhetoric" that he can not bring himself to vote for Trump. Seems someone isn't as bothered by the death cult as it first appears. My my.
And it isn't enough to let this remain his own personal conviction -- no, he shares it with the WORLD, while probably taking a measure of pride that he doesn't publicly endorse candidates. Right.
What exactly is the problem that won't allow you to throw the dog a bone and voice your voting support? Let's hope it doesn't rhyme with the typical tropes of "baggage" and "boorishness."
This incessant undercutting of Orange Man Bad is a self-defeating and hyper-destructive dialogue and drumbeat. Trump's "alternative MAGA" platform is what stands against the Democrats AND all that WORLD (supposedly, used to) stands for... life (not abortion), liberty (not mandates), constitutional law (not the dismantling of the constitution).
Carl complains about the Trump's "bluster of Making America Great Again" without so much as a nod to noticing, highlighting or thanking God for the only politician since 1973 to effectively impact the SCOTUS enabling the elimination of Roe. And in an article all about abortion, that's a starkly odd and very telling omission. Sadly, I fear it's not an intentional omission, but rather the result of a bias that has blinded "the evangelical right" from even seeing any of the many positives they might omit.
And I would also ask, what do you have against making America great again? And why call it bluster?
While Walker would have me think less about Trump, Trueman brings him right back to the front. Pretty good game of ping-pong the editors are playing with subscribers. "Let's tell them not to think about HIM... but we'll keep writing about HIM... and always only in negative nay-saying non-sensical ways that reflect only a misunderstanding of who HE is and what's at stake.
If you can't find it within yourself to vote against the Democrat's "Recover Roe" death plan because of Trump's "bluster,"then you are voting for the death plan. I notice the double-edged dynamic going on in real time, as "the evangelicals" either say: "He can't beat Biden!" or "I'm not voting for him!" Either way you heap upon yourselves the result of your choice.
Truman is right... there really are 2 MAGA plans and abortion is just one of the huge differences:
One works against you in 100 wicked ways... and brags about it. "Abortion, globalism, gay pride & open borders to all!"
One fights FOR you... and brags about it. "Roe removed, life & liberty, secure the border!"
Oh, but the bragging.... yeah, I can't vote for him. And, "fights"... hmmm, that's not acceptable.
Give me "gentle and lowly" and I'll be happy.
Drop the angst about tweets and trials, and pull down the false idol of a standard that your President has to fit into a pretty, perfect little box of unattainable morality -- "or else I won't vote for him."
The misguided and malevolent moral equivalency has to end.
We're all evil if that's the way you want to look at it. Like Adam, Abraham & David. So, yes... you have to choose the lesser of two evils. For those that don't realize that's what we've been doing since the late 1700's... welcome to the real world, with real sinners, running for office.
For those that can't see a stark contrast between the "evil" inherent @ Trump vs Biden... think about it deeper than cleverly crafted anti-Trump OpEd's and reflect on the actions of the man in office and the positive impact his policies had on millions around the world. The world wasn't on fire 3 years ago.
"Oh, I like his policies, but..."
I suggest, we stop at "I like his policies." Then turn off your TV and enjoy the world not at war, with transgender troops not being affirmed, China being checked, NATO on notice, DEI declining, and Roe Removed.
In the fight for the right to life, don't stir the pot by bringing up the horrors of abortion... then just leave it on the back burner with a whimsical, "But, I'm not going to vote" to stop it.
In the fog of war, we need moral clarity... not moral equivalency.
Let's seek it.
Incredibly well said!
I will speak for myself: I don’t know if Mr. Trump can beat Mr. Biden or not. I DO know a lot of people who don’t plan to vote for either candidate and others who prefer not to vote for either candidate but will likely hold their nose and do it if those are the parties’ choices.
I have heard a lot of reasons for people not voting for Mr. Trump besides “boorishness” and “baggage.” (Quite a few have been written by believers right here on this forum where you often comment.)
We have only had one primary and one caucus, and the vast majority of the voters have not cast their votes yet. We have months to go before November; and, as you implied, the world is on fire (so a LOT can happen). It just…seems a bit premature to declare the nominating process over-much less the election.
Again, speaking for myself: I don’t expect a candidate to achieve some impossible standard of morality, but I DO expect SOME morality. I DO expect a candidate not to make me fear they might try to subvert the Constitution or act like a dictator. I do expect them to serve the country and not view themselves as above the law. Maybe I’m naive or unrealistic, but…surely a country like ours can figure out a way to elect candidates we don’t view as the “lesser of evils.”
For what it’s worth: I am actively pro life. I have spoken out for the unborn, have volunteered at a crisis pregnancy center, and support a crisis pregnancy center. I vote pro life. And… I’m not convinced the only way-or even the best way-to help those who are vulnerable, including unborn children, is to vote for “the lesser of two evils.”
Biden's MAGA strategy and the recent legislative success of pro-abortion advocates illustrates the folly of pursuing cultural change exclusively through political power. Unless the hearts and minds of an American majority is changed, our society will continue to ignore the personhood of the unborn. Biden ran as a [relative] centrist in his last campaign in comparison to other candidates on the radical left, but now he's showing his true colors.
Trueman's critique of the #NeverTrumpers is a little off base in my opinion. It's not just about "the former president’s boorishness and alternative MAGA rhetoric." A rational argument can be made that Trump's persistent election denial, his endorsement of conspiracy theories, and his systemic attack on democratic institutions could become an existential threat to our democracy. Of course, this sort of thing occurs on both sides of the aisle, but Trump takes it to an unprecedented level. To oppose Trump is not the same as endorsing Biden. There's space for evangelicals to oppose in good conscience a coronation of Trump as the presumptive Republican nominee.
I'd like to know how Trump takes it to an unprecedented level...
Did Trump start a countdown to impeachment before Hillary/Biden were elected?
Did Trump weaponize the RNC & FBI & DOJ to create false FISA warrants to spy on Hillary/Biden?
Did Trump fabricate a "Russia collusion" lie about Hillary/Biden to impede and impeach anyone?
Did Trump activate activists around America to shift state's voting "rules" toward mail-in-voting?
Did Trump collude w/ Blinken before the debate to sign up 51 INTEL heads decrying Hunters' laptop as (another) Russian hoax?
** A lie proclaimed on a public debate that exit polls show swayed votes ~20%.
These are just a few of the "unprecedented" events that occurred in the last couple of election cycles.
Regardless of whatever "sort of thing occurs on both sides"... what is the rational argument that Trump took things to an unprecedented level?
Regarding the "folly of pursuing cultural change exclusively through political power."
I agree, but the word 'exclusively' is doing all the work in that sentence. We're in a multi-front war, with politics, culture, and education all being major theaters of conflict. We must fight evil on every front. When someone advocates for political change, they are not saying we should abandon everything else.
Bingo!
From the article: "It is not Biden and Harris who want us to think that killing the most vulnerable in society is a good thing. It is because so many of us are already there that they make their pitch."
Yes! I agree 100%. Also, Biden's positions on most issues are remarkably unpopular, so his handlers are wisely chasing after his most popular position: abortion. As Trueman says, the popularity of his position that all abortion is great is a sad indictment on the United States of America in 2024.
It occurs to me to wonder what happened to the "rare" part of "safe, legal, and rare." (Not that the "safe" part is even possible when one of the two directly-involved people is guaranteed to die.)
The same thing that happened to 'tolerance' in terms of the LGBT+ movement. While many naive activists may have actually believed it, the demonic powers behind the movements never intended to compromise in any way, shape, or form. Once the camel's head is in the tent, the rest will follow.
“Naive”…
Assuming the tolerant “naive activist” exists … the thing to remember about these activists who champion “movements” empowered by demonic powers, is that they are — in fact — naive.
The true activists are not naive.
Shrewd and ignorant, yes.
But they don’t want abortion “rare”
The know LGBTQA+ (etc) is not “tolerant.”
It’s all the many people who swallow their intentionally, well-crafted mantas & slogans who are naive.
“Legal, Safe & Rate”
“Black Lives Matter”
“Diversity makes us stronger”
“If you get vax’d you won’t get Covid”
“I believe in science”
“Six feet safe!”
“Stop hate”
These are all well-worded lies that capture entire naive populations & shift the landscape of society for worse.
Almost forgot:
“Trump is a dictator, an existential threat to democracy, undermining the constitution, an election denier, who only cares about himself, doesn’t care about the country, and doesn’t have any values or MORALITY.”
"Rare" was a ruse. It was never intended to be rare. That was word-play for people who want to believe the best about the worst, for some reason. We are playing poker with mobsters... they are shrewd and savage in their plans and tactics. The invent words, create narratives and sell snake-oil to get a seat at the table of your mind... as if they were just good, honest people... acting in good faith... for your good.
They are liars. That's what happened.
A lot can happen between now and November, and it surely will. I'm going to spend much more time on my knees about these issues than I ever have before.
"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen." -- Ephesians 3:20-21
Amen! I pray for our government and leaders, even those I didn't want elected. But salvation doesn't come in on Air Force One (a quote from Chuck Colson), but only through our Lord. He is our only hope!
Hi Leo, just curious...
What could "happen between now and November" that would make things different in "these issues"?
Would it be Trump falling off a building, Biden slipping on the stairs, Michelle Obama entering the race, Nikki getting the nomination? Or, something else?
Assuming abortion is "the issue" in mind... do you need to spend much more time on your knees, praying to understand which party wants to RESTORE ROE?
As for me, I prayed, supported, funded, served and protested to have ROE REMOVED for the last 30 years. That's one thing I used to "ask and think"... and God was able to do exceedingly abundantly above my prayers through the strange grace of President Trump. Amen.
Amen?
EPH 3:20-21 is a tremendous truth... but, I'm wondering for what are you "asking and thinking" ?
If you care to share.
“Of two evils, choose neither “
This is a quote? From where? How does it apply to this story, the campaign, the candidates - as distinct from all past presidential elections? I find myself, with Trueman, so disgusted, and yet I can see he is unable to absolutely commit himself to the position you are quoting. Also, thank you, not silent, for your comments earlier. That is the way in which I will walk in the fear of the Lord: do not fear (man), pray (trust in the Lord). And, thank you, World Opinions, for provoking a fairly worthwhile comment section.
PatWahl, to answer your question the quote is from Charles Spurgeon. It was not related to politics, rather he was addressing heresy and lack of charity. Today however it is often used in political discussions to avoid making hard decisions.
Spurgeon was liberal politically (in his day), but decidedly pro-life. "Spurgeon also believed voting was a God given privilege and duty."
https://www.spurgeon.org/resource-library/blog-entries/how-would-spurgeon-vote/
RJON, thanks for connecting the dots to Charles... and for your insight about dodging decisions.
Spurgeon's spiritual stuff is not meant to be taken out of context and pointed into "political discussions to avoid making hard decisions."
His quote doesn't apply in this arena, where all men are fallen... as they strive to manage best we can, by God.
It is rather shocking that a political party would make access to abortion so prominent in its platform. I agree that protecting vulnerable unborn children is extremely important. Frankly, there are a lot of frightening and concerning issues at play in this election that could harm vulnerable people.
Maybe the outcome of the general election is already set. But…we’ve only had one primary and one caucus. The vast majority of Americans haven’t voted. If the author feels he “cannot see [himself] voting for either of the likely candidates,” why not encourage believers to pray for God’s mercy, guidance and intervention?
Haven’t followers of Christ accomplished dramatic change through prayer? Doesn’t the Bible say nothing is impossible with God? If the likely outcome is unpalatable, why not try to figure out if there is any way to change the outcome?
Just to add: I feel like a lot of the media is using fear (and maybe a bit of fatalism-or perhaps exhaustion) to drive people certain ways. There definitely is much to fear these days. But the Bible tells believers not to fear. I am not trying to tell people how to vote-just encouraging myself and others not to “react” because of fear but act in faith and with God’s leading.
I get where you're coming from and you make good points. I think Trueman is more lamenting the fact that God often lets nations chase after other gods, and an awful lot of Americans worship at the altar of abortion these days.
You are probably right about that. But…I think I get frustrated because of how many people bemoan the lack of choices while ignoring all possibilities other than the two we are told are most likely.
People have a right to their opinions and choices, of course. But I am not convinced we only have two choices and can only choose the lesser evil between those two.
Amen to that.
My pastor said something last Wednesday night that really stuck with me: "One person plus God is the majority." So as much as some might argue false dichotomies and claim that refusing to vote for one of those two options is 'throwing your vote away,' if God has led you to act apart from the crowd, do it! Ultimately even the election is in His hands.
Ultimately everything is in His hands.
The question after that is... so what? What does that mean for us, where we are?
Surely that's not a call for us to sit passively in our pews and pray... just pray.
God uses secondary means to accomplish his will... like his people in the church -- who should be praying, planting, sharing, loving... and even voting.
Yes, He hardens hearts and gives the idolatrous over to their darkened minds, and so they are.
Our response should not be "refusing to vote" in the face of darkness.
Our response should be to look at that sign "RESTORE ROE" and know exactly what to do.
(Add 25 other issues just as starkly troubling).
FWIW, I would not argue that refusing to vote is "throwing your vote away"...
I would argue that not voting is supporting the election of the candidate you don't vote for.
You'd be throwing away your right & duty... not your vote.
"Low voter turn out" is all the pundits talk about after lost elections.
Well, we have to show up, or that's what the pundits will talk about.
I find it remarkable how many @ WORLD are prepared to sit this election out, preparing the way for "low voter turnout"... based on arguments I have yet to hear.
Of course, vote your conscience... but inform it first w/ sober assessment.
Not emotion. Not moral equivalence about "two evils" as if this was Satan vs Stalin.
Let's not get trapped in the false dichotomies about Trump vs Biden and who has proven to put up better polices, not only for the "vulnerable unborn" but for the born... including the military, minorities, people of faith, policemen, Ukrainians, Israelis, Palestinians, Russians, Germans, French, Iranian, me... and you.
We're not talking about perfection. We're talking about policy that at least TRIES to do the right thing... and brings in more stability, security, peace and prosperity (good things) for human flourishing.
If you disagree and care to share... please point me in the right direction.
You claim that not voting is supporting the candidate that you don't vote for. However, if you don't vote, then you're not voting for ANY candidate; logically speaking, your claim is that the person who doesn't vote for one candidate supports ALL the candidates, which is the exact opposite of what not voting does.
I hear you. I disagree, but I understand what you mean to say.
I'm trying leave the semantics and move into reality...
If you & 1,000,000 don't go vote for Brand X, then Brand Y will win. And the cause will be "low voter turn out."
This difference between us is a minor part of my reply that I might should have left off, so the focus would stay where I meant to put it, namely:
(1) Simply saying "God's in charge" or "Ultimately it's up to Him and in His hands" (or a dozen other similar scriptures) is neither helpful or good. Since day one, the church has been called to "Go!"
Paul and the apostles "went" bc that's the charge they were given, even though God's in charge.
But, I notice now in 2024 a constant stream of verses about "God's in charge" popping up all of a sudden in the face of a simple election. People who have always believed "God was in charge" and yet still always voted, are suddenly not voting because "God's in charge."
It's not consistent, logical or Biblically sound.
It's using a concept pulled out of context to avoid the arduous duty we have in the country God placed us in (a Republic, if you can keep it)... bc he's in control. (Acts 17)
(2) "Our response should be to look at that sign "RESTORE ROE" and know exactly what to do."
This is not Satan vs Stalin. Not even close. Both are evil, as am I. But one is worthy of a vote.
We aren't electing an elder. We're electing a Commander in Chief and a guy to veto bills from Congress and appoint SCOTUS. Trump had a great record on all 3 fronts when he was in the hot seat. The other is not worthy of a vote... Biden is bragging about his desire to RESTORE ROE.
Don't over spiritualize it. Just see it for what it is. Blatant evil vs Fallen attempt to do the right thing.
As I see it, American voters have two choices:
1. Sit out the election because neither candidate seems worthy.
2. Vote for the one (who will be out of office in four years) who will nominate Supreme Court justices
(who will affect American law for a generation) that are aligned with what you believe in.
Trueman says he will choose #1. I will choose #2.
Those 2 choices are always before us.
As I see it, wrt your choice #1…
All Carl’s hand-wringing & other’s “hold my nose to vote” struggle is born out of a faux-emphasis on “the candidate” and a misunderstanding of whether they “seem worthy.”
Sadly, people have been suckered into seething over surface-level distractions about one “candidate’s” personality, rather than examining his platform & policy.
Who is worthy?
———————
Who REMOVED ROE?
Who fought for American sovereignty?
Who made America energy independent?
Who annihilated ISIS?
Who removed & replaced NAFTA?
Who tried to secure the border?
Who did the police support?
Who kept Putin in St. Petersburg?
Who led the military with integrity?
Who never mandated vaccines?
Who spoke truth to power?
Who called fake news “fake news”?
Who exposed the FBI collusion w/ Hillary?
Who brought 4 Arabs into peace w/ Israel?
Who sanctioned Iran to stop the violence?
Who left Oval office without semen stains?
Who served the W-House w/o cocaine bags?
Who doesn’t have several aliases for his crack-head son to use while coordinating cash deliveries for “the big guy”?
Who served 4 years without invading Iraq & Afghanistan, without toppling leaders in Syria & Libya, without stoking world war through weakness?
The WORLD needs to face the music.
One candidate already proved all his policy and lived out his morality in the way he served and led for 4 years.
If anyone has to “hold their nose to vote” for this candidate… so be it. Shouldn't be that way. But there should be no rational reticence for “sitting this out” under the delusion that “neither candidate is worthy.”
Carl rightly notes that we are in a war for our “civilization” … so let’s stop shooting ourselves in the foot by telling ourselves Trump is “evil” & “existential threat” to anything. He already served 4 years…. none of thar is true in the least.
There are 2 choices:
#1 ROE RESTORED, Abortion, globalism, inflation, bankruptcy, war, more war, the big guy, Hunter's laptop, China deals, cocaine, mandates, transgender military, DEI 24/7
#2 ROE REMOVED, Life, American sovereignty, free market, peace, more peace, the guy, no laptop, China checked, drug free, freedom, strong MIL, 2 sexes, merit-based culture.
It’s not a hard choice.
Policy matters.