How Jesus' name and Christianity is being mis-used in politics

[blackbird]

This is a complex subject and one that is not easy to fully understand.  It requires some deep reflection and preferably  some correct knowledge of the Bible.

But this article seems to go into some detail about the problems involved.

quote

Theologian says the 'Trump admin and its apologists are working overtime — using Jesus' name' | Opinion

It was a moment somewhat like this, 30 years ago, that turned me into a biblical scholar. In the lead-up to the passage of the 1996 Welfare Reform Act, political and religious leaders quoted scripture to justify shutting down food programs and kicking mothers and their babies off public assistance. Those leaders, many of them self-described Christians, chose to ignore the majority of passages in the Bible that preached “good news” to the poor and promised freedom to those captive to injustice and oppression. Instead, they put forward unethical and ahistorical (mis)interpretations and (mis)appropriations of biblical texts to prop up American imperial power and punish the poor in the name of a warped morality.

Three decades later, the Trump administration and its theological apologists are working overtime, using Jesus’ name and the Bible’s contents in even more devastating rounds of immoral biblical (mis)references. In July, there was the viral video from the Department of Homeland Security, using the “Here I am, Lord. Send me” quotation from Isaiah—commonly cited when ordaining faith leaders and including explicit references to marginalized communities impacted by displacement and oppression—to recruit new agents for the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, or ICE, a job that now comes with a $50,000 signing bonus, thanks to US President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill.

”Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s former pastor went even further in marrying the Bible to anti-immigrant hatred by saying, “Is the Bible in favor of these ICE raids?… The answer is yes.” He then added: “The Bible does not require wealthy Christian nations to self-immolate for the horrible crime of having a flourishing economy and way of life, all right? The Bible does not permit the civil magistrate to steal money from its citizens to pay for foreign nationals to come destroy our culture.    unquote

For the full article go to:

Theologian says the 'Trump admin and its apologists are working overtime — using Jesus' name' | Opinion

 

 

 

 

Edited September 11, 2025 by blackbird

[User]

Well, you are one of the biggest people on this particular forum abusing scripture for politics. Especially when it comes to your support for open borders madness and flaunting immigration law. 

[Shady]

I’m not religious and I couldn’t care less what some theologian thinks.  I care about policy.

[Deluge]

5 hours ago, blackbird said:

This is a complex subject and one that is not easy to fully understand.  It requires some deep reflection and preferably  some correct knowledge of the Bible.

But this article seems to go into some detail about the problems involved.

quote

Theologian says the 'Trump admin and its apologists are working overtime — using Jesus' name' | Opinion

It was a moment somewhat like this, 30 years ago, that turned me into a biblical scholar. In the lead-up to the passage of the 1996 Welfare Reform Act, political and religious leaders quoted scripture to justify shutting down food programs and kicking mothers and their babies off public assistance. Those leaders, many of them self-described Christians, chose to ignore the majority of passages in the Bible that preached “good news” to the poor and promised freedom to those captive to injustice and oppression. Instead, they put forward unethical and ahistorical (mis)interpretations and (mis)appropriations of biblical texts to prop up American imperial power and punish the poor in the name of a warped morality.

Three decades later, the Trump administration and its theological apologists are working overtime, using Jesus’ name and the Bible’s contents in even more devastating rounds of immoral biblical (mis)references. In July, there was the viral video from the Department of Homeland Security, using the “Here I am, Lord. Send me” quotation from Isaiah—commonly cited when ordaining faith leaders and including explicit references to marginalized communities impacted by displacement and oppression—to recruit new agents for the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, or ICE, a job that now comes with a $50,000 signing bonus, thanks to US President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill.

”Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s former pastor went even further in marrying the Bible to anti-immigrant hatred by saying, “Is the Bible in favor of these ICE raids?… The answer is yes.” He then added: “The Bible does not require wealthy Christian nations to self-immolate for the horrible crime of having a flourishing economy and way of life, all right? The Bible does not permit the civil magistrate to steal money from its citizens to pay for foreign nationals to come destroy our culture.    unquote

For the full article go to:

Theologian says the 'Trump admin and its apologists are working overtime — using Jesus' name' | Opinion

The Bible is not the book you are looking for 

Here, try this one; I think you'll find it more to your liking. 

https://www.betterworldbooks.com/product/detail/the-communist-manifesto-9789354622878?shipto=US&curcode=USD&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=pMax-New-USA&utm_content=&utm_term=&creative=&device=c&placement=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16611271138&gbraid=0AAAAADMQnG-EPP81CrUeqew29ItYWqkVV&gclid=Cj0KCQjw5onGBhDeARIsAFK6QJZ-K_3ry7xRZAi9woeigSPav3G4UYH-VO3m40XzbyP6R77EOjQPYK8aAqTMEALw_wcB

 

[paxamericana]

Let me preface this rebuttal as a reminder from one Christian to another. We are all morally bankrupt before God. What’s important, is to seek truth in the light. It is not, therefore incumbent upon us to judge one another in our imperfections towards truth. We should instead pray for one another, seek righteous and give glory to God in our good works. Give grace to one another. 

Edited September 12, 2025 by paxamericana

[Deluge]

17 hours ago, blackbird said:

This is a complex subject and one that is not easy to fully understand.  It requires some deep reflection and preferably  some correct knowledge of the Bible.

But this article seems to go into some detail about the problems involved.

quote

Theologian says the 'Trump admin and its apologists are working overtime — using Jesus' name' | Opinion

It was a moment somewhat like this, 30 years ago, that turned me into a biblical scholar. In the lead-up to the passage of the 1996 Welfare Reform Act, political and religious leaders quoted scripture to justify shutting down food programs and kicking mothers and their babies off public assistance. Those leaders, many of them self-described Christians, chose to ignore the majority of passages in the Bible that preached “good news” to the poor and promised freedom to those captive to injustice and oppression. Instead, they put forward unethical and ahistorical (mis)interpretations and (mis)appropriations of biblical texts to prop up American imperial power and punish the poor in the name of a warped morality.

Three decades later, the Trump administration and its theological apologists are working overtime, using Jesus’ name and the Bible’s contents in even more devastating rounds of immoral biblical (mis)references. In July, there was the viral video from the Department of Homeland Security, using the “Here I am, Lord. Send me” quotation from Isaiah—commonly cited when ordaining faith leaders and including explicit references to marginalized communities impacted by displacement and oppression—to recruit new agents for the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, or ICE, a job that now comes with a $50,000 signing bonus, thanks to US President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill.

”Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s former pastor went even further in marrying the Bible to anti-immigrant hatred by saying, “Is the Bible in favor of these ICE raids?… The answer is yes.” He then added: “The Bible does not require wealthy Christian nations to self-immolate for the horrible crime of having a flourishing economy and way of life, all right? The Bible does not permit the civil magistrate to steal money from its citizens to pay for foreign nationals to come destroy our culture.    unquote

For the full article go to:

Theologian says the 'Trump admin and its apologists are working overtime — using Jesus' name' | Opinion

 

 

Jesus would be on the Right for the simple fact that the Left doesn't recognize him, nor do they care to recognize him. 

It's that simple. 

[blackbird]

1 hour ago, Deluge said:

Jesus would be on the Right for the simple fact that the Left doesn't recognize him, nor do they care to recognize him. 

It's that simple. 

Jesus is not on the right or left.  When it comes to the immigrant, the poor, and the disadvantaged, Jesus is on their side.  Read the King James Bible.

Saying one recognizes Jesus and then totally rejecting what Jesus and his word says is hypocrisy.

Saying one "recognizes" Jesus sounds questionable in itself.  One must believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and believe He died for their sins personally.  One must be born again.  Accepting Jesus means accepting His written word, the KJV, because He is the Word.  see John 1:1  "1  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."

quote

Today we will talk about Bible verses about treatment of immigrants. Many Christians do not know what this means. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word. The Bible offers us profound insights on how we should treat those who come from far and wide. Immigrants may be the strangers we meet in our communities, and the scriptures remind us that our actions toward them carry immense significance. In fact, the way we welcome and support newcomers reflects our understanding of God’s love and our duties as His followers. Let’s take this journey together and uncover biblical truths that speak to how we should treat not only immigrants but everyone around us.

Bible Verses About Treatment of Immigrants

Embracing the Stranger

In the journey of faith, we are reminded of the significant role played by those who are distinct from us, including immigrants. The Bible teaches us to embrace the stranger, recognizing that everyone bears the image of God. We have to remember that many immigrants face hardships, and welcoming them with open arms shows compassion and love. When we treat immigrants with kindness, we do not just help them, but we mirror how God treats each of us—accepting, loving, and understanding despite our differences. Embracing the stranger aligns with the heart of God’s command to love one another.

Leviticus 19:34

“The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the LORD your God.” – Leviticus 19:34

Deuteronomy 10:19

“And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt. I am the LORD your God.” – Deuteronomy 10:19

Matthew 25:35

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.” – Matthew 25:35

Hebrews 13:2

“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” – Hebrews 13:2

Exodus 22:21

“Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the LORD your God.” – Exodus 22:21

Providing for Needs

In our discussions about the treatment of immigrants, a significant aspect is our call to provide for their needs. Whether it’s food, shelter, or support, the Bible encourages us to share what we have. God blesses us not just for our benefit, but so we can bless others in need. As we reflect on passages that discuss provision, let us remember that supporting immigrants isn’t merely a good deed; it’s a reflection of God’s love through us. By providing for the needs of those who are facing challenges, we show that our community is one of love and support, mirroring the heart of Christ.

Isaiah 58:7

“Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?” – Isaiah 58:7

James 2:15-16

“Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?” – James 2:15-16

2 Corinthians 9:7

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7

Proverbs 19:17

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed.” – Proverbs 19:17

1 John 3:17

“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” – 1 John 3:17

Unity in Diversity

Our faith community is made richer by the diverse backgrounds and stories of its members, including immigrants. We are called to recognize that every person is a unique creation of God, deserving of love. Unity in diversity is essential in treating immigrants well, as it allows us to see the beauty and strength found in our differences. By valuing each person’s journey, we foster a more inclusive and welcoming community where all are encouraged to belong. As we read through scriptures, let us be inspired to celebrate the diversity among us as part of God’s grand design.

Galatians 3:28

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:28

Revelation 7:9

“After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.” – Revelation 7:9

1 Corinthians 12:12

“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 12:12

Romans 15:7

“Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” – Romans 15:7

Ephesians 4:4-6

“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” – Ephesians 4:4-6

Defending the Vulnerable

One of our crucial responsibilities as Christians is to protect and defend the vulnerable among us, including immigrants who often face injustice and discrimination. The Bible emphasizes the importance of being advocates for those who cannot advocate for themselves. We are to raise our voices against oppression and stand for righteousness. It’s a reminder that our faith calls us to be active participants in creating a just world, where every individual, regardless of their immigration status or circumstance, is treated with dignity and respect. This is a beautiful expression of God’s heart for justice!

Proverbs 31:8-9

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” – Proverbs 31:8-9

Jeremiah 22:3

“This is what the LORD says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do not wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place.” – Jeremiah 22:3

Zecahariah 7:10

“Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other.” – Zechariah 7:10

Psalm 82:3-4

“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” – Psalm 82:3-4

Isaiah 1:17

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” – Isaiah 1:17

Showing Compassion and Empathy

Compassion and empathy are at the core of our interactions with immigrants. Jesus consistently demonstrated these traits throughout His ministry, meeting people in their greatest moments of need. As we think about the treatment of immigrants, we are reminded to open our hearts and feel what they feel. They come seeking safety and opportunity, so our response should mirror the compassion of Christ. By practicing empathy, we create an environment where immigrants feel valued and understood, leading to stronger relationships and community bonds.

Colossians 3:12

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12

Matthew 9:36

“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” – Matthew 9:36

Lamentations 3:22-23

“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22-23

Luke 10:33-34

“But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine.” – Luke 10:33-34

Philippians 2:4

“Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:4

Building Community Together

Communities thrive when everyone, including immigrants, is included and engaged. The Bible calls us to build connections that foster support and encourages togetherness. By bringing in individuals from different backgrounds, we add various talents, gifts, and perspectives that strengthen our communities. As we unite in service and love, we reflect a glimpse of Heaven on Earth. Let’s commit to building communities together where every person feels they belong, knowing that we’re more vibrant and alive when we reach out to embrace one another.

Ephesians 2:19

“Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household.” – Ephesians 2:19

Romans 12:10

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10

Acts 2:44

“All the believers were together and had everything in common.” – Acts 2:44

Philippians 1:3-5

“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5

Proverbs 27:17

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17

Living Out the Great Commission

One of the most important aspects of our faith is fulfilling the Great Commission, where Jesus instructs us to go out and make disciples of all nations. This call extends to everyone, including immigrants who may have their worldviews shaped by different cultural experiences. When we share the gospel and serve alongside others, we not only spread God’s love but also invite newcomers into our faith communities. In doing so, we strengthen our own faith while living out the teachings of Jesus in practical ways.

Matthew 28:19-20

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” – Matthew 28:19-20

Mark 16:15

“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.'” – Mark 16:15

Luke 10:1

“After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go.” – Luke 10:1

John 13:34

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34

Acts 1:8

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8

Stewardship of Resources

Being good stewards of our resources is vital when considering how we treat immigrants. God has entrusted us with various blessings, and we should manage these gifts wisely. This stewardship includes using our time, talents, and treasures to uplift others, especially those who are vulnerable and in need. Practicing stewardship means realizing we can pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive society. Let’s reflect on how we can generously share what we have and empower immigrants to thrive within our communities.

1 Peter 4:10

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10

unquote

30 Powerful bible verses about treatment of immigrants (Full Commentary) - Bible Study For You

 

Edited September 12, 2025 by blackbird

[Deluge]

6 minutes ago, blackbird said:

Jesus is not on the right or left. 

Jesus is where He is accepted - the Left doesn't accept Jesus, therefore he goes Right, where He is at least largely accepted. 

[WestCanMan]

18 hours ago, blackbird said:

This is a complex subject and one that is not easy to fully understand.  It requires some deep reflection and preferably  some correct knowledge of the Bible.

This is a complex subject and people are going to have their own interpretations and opinions on the matter, and no matter how religious you personally are, yours are not the be-all end-all. 

Quote

 

But this article seems to go into some detail about the problems involved.

 

That article seems to be is an entirely slanted hit-piece, if you're being honest. 

Quote

Those leaders, many of them self-described Christians, chose to ignore the majority of passages in the Bible that preached “good news” to the poor and promised freedom to those captive to injustice and oppression. Instead, they put forward unethical and ahistorical (mis)interpretations and (mis)appropriations of biblical texts to prop up American imperial power and punish the poor in the name of a warped morality.

Guaranteed the dude who wrote that article wears panties and cheers when he sees a cop being shot, or a building being looted or burned down. 

[WestCanMan]

28 minutes ago, blackbird said:

Jesus is not on the right or left.  When it comes to the immigrant, the poor, and the disadvantaged, Jesus is on their side. 

It's easy to be generous when you can turn water into wine, bb, but for those of us who lack magical powers of biblical proportions, there's only so much that can be given.

Furthermore, a huge chunk of the money that goes to USAID and NGO's doesn't go to the poor, just like Clinton Foundation money didn't go to Haitians. You give, they take, and the hungry and poor remain hungry and poor. 

You're shilling for org's that use poor people as an excuse to drain the gov't for their own personal financial gain.

[West]

If your source is Christianity Today or compromised theologians like JD Grear who've sold their pulpits to secular billionaires to promote wokeism, spare me

On 9/11/2025 at 3:26 PM, User said:

Well, you are one of the biggest people on this particular forum abusing scripture for politics. Especially when it comes to your support for open borders madness and flaunting immigration law. 

This "theology" is funded by secular billionaires

[blackbird]

On 9/12/2025 at 8:58 AM, WestCanMan said:

This is a complex subject and people are going to have their own interpretations and opinions on the matter, and no matter how religious you personally are, yours are not the be-all end-all. 

I did say the subject is complex, but on second thought, I would say it is not really complex.  The verses I quoted are very plain.

Nobody needs my opinions or interpretations of those verses.  They are very clear about how one must treat other people.

20 hours ago, West said:

This "theology" is funded by secular billionaires

I quoted a long list of verses showing how we are to show compassion and empathy to others, including foreigners (immigrants).  This has nothing to do with "secular billionaires".

Trump supporters that profess to be Christians need to stop all the political rhetoric and put the Bible first.  I think that is what real Christians should be doing.  It might cost some popularity but that is the price of standing up for God's word.  It always has been.  You won't win any popularity contests.

Being harsh with immigrants or the poor and disadvantaged certainly doesn't agree with the Bible verses I quoted.

"The CBO also estimated poorer Americans − those earning less than $23,750 annually and who pay about $2,300 of that in federal taxes − will lose about $1,200 a year because of Medicaid changes and reductions in food assistance. Middle-income households are expected to gain $800 to $1,200. Meanwhile, the law's tax cuts will benefit wealthier Americans by about $13,600 a year."

Millions will lose Medicaid under Trump's tax law, CBO says

“This is what the LORD says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do not wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place.” – Jeremiah 22:3

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10

 

[User]

1 minute ago, blackbird said:

Being harsh with immigrants or the poor and disadvantaged certainly doesn't agree with the Bible verses I quoted.

The problem here is your skewed understanding of what harsh means. 

When illegal immigrants break the law, the law is enforced, that is not "harsh"

And once again, why are you not up there in Canada demanding YOUR government do this and let all these people in?

[eyeball]

On 9/11/2025 at 1:55 PM, blackbird said:

This is a complex subject and one that is not easy to fully understand. 

Are you kidding? Politics and religion never fail to cawk everything up.

What isn't there to understand?

On 9/12/2025 at 8:30 AM, blackbird said:

Jesus is not on the right or left. 

His Dad was a cranky old redneck. Jesus was a freaking hippy in comparison.

[Deluge]

On 9/13/2025 at 9:18 PM, eyeball said:

Are you kidding? Politics and religion never fail to cawk everything up.

What isn't there to understand?

His Dad was a cranky old redneck. Jesus was a freaking hippy in comparison.

Christianity is what keeps America stable and free. Without Christianity, the US is a total wasteland. There would be endless wars, disease, and 100 different languages running around setting shit on fire.