In the interest of full disclosure I would describe myself as an evangelical Christian of orthodox reformed beliefs.
I recently read an article in the Washington Post entitled Trump mocks the faith of others. His own religious practices remain opaque.
I am fascinated at the almost cult-like devotion to our President by his supporters. For these supporters, there often appears to be no possible area in which one can posit that his behavior or language is to be questioned. Many of my friends of some years and folks whose intellect I respect refuse to entertain even the slightest hint that there are some areas in which Mr. Trump could improve.
As a conservative, I see many actions taken by Mr. Trump that I approve of. He is pro-life, he nominates conservative judges, and he deregulates bureaucratic roadblocks.
As a Christian, I see many more things that trouble me greatly.
In the article I cite above, there are many references and quotes from clergy proclaiming his Christianity and commitment to its beliefs. However, I am perplexed by his actions, which Jesus tells us to look for as the fruits of a person. “By their fruits you will know them” (Matthew 7:16).
In the church my wife and I attend, I hear many proclaim what a great Christian Mr. Trump is. I ask myself, “what behaviors does he model that resemble the life, words, and standards of Jesus”? For instance, does he show love and mercy to his detractors? His quote “When people wrong you, go after those people, because it is a good feeling and because other people will see you doing it. I always get even.” does not seem to emulate Jesus’ command.
Jesus warned us of the great penalty of arrogance when he said, “ For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12). Somehow that seems to contrast with the quote from Mr. Trump when he declared “Sorry losers and haters, but my IQ is one of the highest, please don’t feel stupid or insecure, it’s not your fault.” There are many other behaviors and words that make me at least put forth the hypothesis that his Christianity is a convenience rather than a way of life.
Of course, I know that I am in no position to judge the state of anyone’s heart; a knowledge that belongs only to God. We are told in 1 Kings 8:39 “You [God] alone know the hearts of all the sons of men”. But I think the language and behavior of Mr. Trump could call the sincerity of his proclaimed Christianity into question.