I love religion for its rich cultural heritage and rituals that have evolved over the centuries. The Bible and other religious texts are books full of colurful and fantastical moral fables loosely grounded in historical events and written by humans. It's just such a shame people can't leave it at that and instead believe religion is fact rather than the man made fiction it really is. I suppose in that respect Trump and evangelical Christians is match made right here on Earth ;)
5
I want freedom FROM " religion ".
7
This article is simply further empirical proof that there is no God; any God worth his theistic salt would strike these crooks, hypocrites and abusers dead with a bolt of lightning. I'd settle for frogs or boils.
11
More gross hypocrisy from those trying to perpetrate their so-called religion on others and using the cloak of government to aid that. Let's see every last detail about those involved, especially those who gain financially from religion.
7
Yes, in the end days a charismatic man arises suddenly and successfully wooes many, even some Christians. If only fundamentalist Christians had a name for such a man. Freedom!!
2
Trump is addicted to attention. The more right he goes the more these groups praise him. Music to his ears. Trump never was a idealist, but he is a junkie to be loved. The more the right sing praises the more he will lean towards them.
2
INteresting how God talks to all these "preachers" while they live the high life. Perhaps they could send me her cell phone number and we can have a meaningful discussion.
2
Well, well. Trump's history of shortchanging people who counted on his promises; fraudulent endeavors like Trump U; deceitfulness before the election; and deceitfulness since then to the current days doesn't matter to these evangelical backers. What a lot.
2
Understand this Trump voters. We will not go back to "great again".
Anyone who doesn't know what that is code for does now.
I won't go back, my daughters won't go back, none of the 65 million people who voted for Hillary are going back. I hope this includes a good portion of the Trump voters too.
If you want a revolution you will get one. I don't care how many Supreme Court seats you steal. I don't care how many laws you make.
We are not going back.
Anyone who doesn't know what that is code for does now.
I won't go back, my daughters won't go back, none of the 65 million people who voted for Hillary are going back. I hope this includes a good portion of the Trump voters too.
If you want a revolution you will get one. I don't care how many Supreme Court seats you steal. I don't care how many laws you make.
We are not going back.
6
"For Religious Conservatives, Success and Access at the Trump White House"
Least we forget, who had success and access to the White House during the last administration? Elections have consequences.
Least we forget, who had success and access to the White House during the last administration? Elections have consequences.
1
Talk about being unable to see that the emperor has no clothes! So much for the separation of church and state in America. Next we'll be told that we have to recite the Donald's version of the Lord's prayer. It'll probably start with "our Donald who art in Mar a Lago..."
7
hen3ry - "Talk about being unable to see that the emperor has no clothes! So much for the separation of church and state in America."
Sometimes it's much better to wait until it hurts before yelling ouch. Have we seen laws passed denying the separation of church and state? Have such laws even been proposed?
Sometimes it's much better to wait until it hurts before yelling ouch. Have we seen laws passed denying the separation of church and state? Have such laws even been proposed?
“Donald Trump didn’t walk around pretending to be this paragon of Christian virtue. What he did was say he’d protect your right to be one.”
Nobody was ever threatening their right to be "paragons of Christian virtue" (if they were). What was "threatened" - by the First Amendment" actually - was their right to force everyone else to live by their definition.
The religious right does not believe in the separation of church and state, and does not understand that such separation is what has allowed them practice their faith in the first place.
Nobody was ever threatening their right to be "paragons of Christian virtue" (if they were). What was "threatened" - by the First Amendment" actually - was their right to force everyone else to live by their definition.
The religious right does not believe in the separation of church and state, and does not understand that such separation is what has allowed them practice their faith in the first place.
13
I am very disappointed in the New York Times for ignoring how these social conservatives have coordinated efforts to block anti-discrimination laws for LGBT people. Several of these groups are champions of the freedom laws that even subvert anti-discrimination laws so long as you discriminate based on the religious belief that gays and trans people are morally wrong.
Focus on Family is so active in that campaign of laws that they are marked as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center. It's shameful that this paper would ignore this aspect of social conservatism like this. Doing so allows them to pursue their aim to cut people like me out of society with impunity.
Focus on Family is so active in that campaign of laws that they are marked as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center. It's shameful that this paper would ignore this aspect of social conservatism like this. Doing so allows them to pursue their aim to cut people like me out of society with impunity.
7
Religion and civilization are incompatible........
4
Anyone that thinks that Trump is a symbol of a " good" Christian is either a fool or a liar.
9
Only a fool or a liar would make such a claim with absolutely NO facts, much less sources. Your mere emotions.
The picture is worth a thousand words.
My preferred acronym for the religious right is CHINO, CHristian In Name Only
7
The pre-inaugural congregation sang "Onward Christian Soldiers," which is no longer used in progressive Christian churches. That moment reveals a great deal about the new administration's intentions.
5
Let's call these heretics what they are - 'theatrical pharisaic cultists'. They have invented an idol that Christ would NEVER recognize and practice a religion that eschews Biblical values and elevates their personal bigotry to the highest cult practices. Their religious ecstasies are no different than drug-induced hallucinations.
8
Religious Right = crowd/mind control
3
Delusionals welcome here! Step right up! We are looking for people who are willing to believe pretty much anything (evolution is a hoax, the Earth is 6,000 years old, etc) because we have some real whoppers we want to push (Trump is religious, hoards of brown criminals are invading), and we need some folks who think Jesus was a Republican and facts are a media conspiracy. Step up! Yes, you there, with the dim, angry look in your eyes. Want to be part of a Great Movement to take America back from you-know-who and the you-know-whats? Just put this red hat on, grab your squirrel rifle and get ready for the Big Show!
8
The world already tried mixing religion and the state. That gave us blasphemy trials, the inquisition, stake burnings, book banning, and torture. It did not work then and would not work now.
7
Only one of those ever happened in America: Books Banned in Boston.
We call it "American exceptionalism."
We call it "American exceptionalism."
The Evangelicals think they have the inside track to God and Trump is their saviour. What they don't understand is that the founding fathers understood that religion had no place in politics, and so did Christ. Also. anybody that is anti-Muslim, anti-women, anti-gay, and anti-immigrant, who claims to be a Christian, either does not know the teaching of Christ, or is a hypocrite.
13
"Donald Trump didn't walk around pretending to be this paragon of Christian virtue. What he did say is he'd protect your right to be one." Since when have evangelical Christians felt that their rights were taken away, other than the right to abuse the rights of others?
26
well put
Despite their respect for religion and their belief in the divine origins of human rights, many of the Founding Fathers worried that religion would corrupt the state and, conversely, that the state would corrupt religion.
If the founders had not made their stance on this "Christian nation" issue clear enough in the Constitution and the Federalist Papers, they certainly did in the 1797 Treaty of Tripoli.
Begun by George Washington, signed by John Adams and ratified unanimously by a Senate still half-filled with signers of the Constitution, this treaty announced firmly and flatly to the world that "the Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion." [CNN]
If the founders had not made their stance on this "Christian nation" issue clear enough in the Constitution and the Federalist Papers, they certainly did in the 1797 Treaty of Tripoli.
Begun by George Washington, signed by John Adams and ratified unanimously by a Senate still half-filled with signers of the Constitution, this treaty announced firmly and flatly to the world that "the Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion." [CNN]
26
Trump keeps trying to tell his followers that he will keep them safe. No single individual, there is no group who can guarantee to keep you safe...no one. There is no one in this entire world that is "safe" as much as everyone would love to have that belief. Life is full of factors that attack your safety. Certain steps can be taken to attempt to increase your level of safety but life gives no guarantee. Speed limits, lines on the road, standards for building of roads, street signs, police...all there to increase your level of safety on the road and yet, road crash statistics show nearly 1.3 million people die in road crashes each year, on average 3,287 deaths a day. The US has environmental laws that reduce various types of illness but because of China's poor environmental laws, outdoor air pollution contributes to the deaths of an estimated 1.6 million people every year, or about 4,400 people a day. Trump is going to keep you safe? There has never been as dangerous a lie as an arrogant person that says that they can guarantee that they can keep you safe. The only way Trump can do that is to cause you to die...then you're absolutely safe. Trump can and will absolutely do that for you.
10
So many of those regulations that Trump and his cronies want to get rid of are helping to keep us safe. Keeping us safe is not really on Trump's agenda. If it were, he'd be putting gun safety legislation at the top of his agenda!
I was stunned while watching the president announce his pick for the Supreme Court. As the camera scanned the east room of the White House I saw a veritable who's who of hate group leaders and several heads of right-wing religious organizations. These individuals had been largely marginalized by voters and main-stream politicians because of their extremist views.
With numerous reports of a rise in anti-Muslim, anti-women, anti-gay, and anti-immigrant, hate crimes across the country, it may get worse before it gets better. These alleged 'religious conservatives' peddle hate and misinformation to advance their political agenda, and Donald Trump is merely following their lead.
Roy Steele
San Francisco, California
With numerous reports of a rise in anti-Muslim, anti-women, anti-gay, and anti-immigrant, hate crimes across the country, it may get worse before it gets better. These alleged 'religious conservatives' peddle hate and misinformation to advance their political agenda, and Donald Trump is merely following their lead.
Roy Steele
San Francisco, California
13
Welcome to the United States of Soviet Republics. Hope everyone's Russian is up to par. The US flag...each star will now become yellow and a sickle will overtake the entire flag. Where the Red-White-Blue used to be a symbol of our separation from Britain...it will now be the symbol of losing the war to Russia and there wasn't even a single shot fired. Feeding the Americans Fake news was all it took. The new government will be called the Offices of the United States of Soviet Republicans. Let me see, how many Russian citizens own guns? How do people think the new Russian empire will abide the US constitution or the Bill of Rights? How has the history of religion been in Russia? There was a time before the Constitution and the Bill of Rights and now there will be a time after them ending.
To think, 270+ people voted for this change…in spite of the majority of the nation.
To think, 270+ people voted for this change…in spite of the majority of the nation.
5
Hopefully this will energize the the majority of Americans to take back America from the Alt-right.
Its time to make some constitutional amendments:
1. Absolute separation of church and state.
2. One-person, one-vote. (Abolish the Electoral College)
3. Privacy to determine ones future (pro-choice).
4. Freedom of choice (sexuality, religion, gender)
5. Corporations are not people (Abolish Citizens United)
6. Reasonable gun control
Its time to make some constitutional amendments:
1. Absolute separation of church and state.
2. One-person, one-vote. (Abolish the Electoral College)
3. Privacy to determine ones future (pro-choice).
4. Freedom of choice (sexuality, religion, gender)
5. Corporations are not people (Abolish Citizens United)
6. Reasonable gun control
16
Good ideas but we would not want a constitutional convention with our current elected leaders. None are or could be, as inspiring as our founding fathers. I shudder at the thought of what they might do to this fine document.
That sounds too much like freedom. Enjoy your lives, you young folks.
1
In the photo, Trump looks like he's smiling because he's thinking of P.T. Barnum's line about suckers born every minute.
10
Without the gulls of NYC, eddie, P T woulda never made it out of Bridgeport. "This way to the egress." All 5 boroughs followed.
2
“I think you have been designed and gifted by God for this moment.” -James Robison
If I were an engineer named God, I would be pretty offended that Mr. Robison would claim that I designed and made such an abomination and set it upon the world. I'd suggest that this product bears the markings of another engineer I once booted out of the company for egregious workplace ethics violations.
If Mr. Robison truly believed that I was the perfect engineer and that in response to such defamation, I had the power to send a summons on a lightning bolt for him to appear before me in my court, I doubt he would commit such slander.
If I were an engineer named God, I would be pretty offended that Mr. Robison would claim that I designed and made such an abomination and set it upon the world. I'd suggest that this product bears the markings of another engineer I once booted out of the company for egregious workplace ethics violations.
If Mr. Robison truly believed that I was the perfect engineer and that in response to such defamation, I had the power to send a summons on a lightning bolt for him to appear before me in my court, I doubt he would commit such slander.
6
It just seems so hypocritical. Backing a president who is so un-Christ like in order to move some agenda items forward - a deal with the devil?
10
How is being Pro-life un-Christ like? By all means, enlighten we Christians here, we happy few.
He had always been pro-choice until he ran for president, and asked his second wife to have an abortion. He has had multiple affairs. He has never actually been a regular at any church. He promotes violence towards individuals he doesn't like. He is a pathological liar. If all anyone has to is pretend to be anti-choice then yo uh set s very low bar.
2
Is saying he's pro-life all you care about, Charles? Is that all it takes to be Christlike? Compassion, kindness, righteousness, selflessness, none of that matters to you? Vanity, greed, lust, gluttony, those are okay too, if Trump says he's pro-life?
Trump may claim to be pro-life, but this is the man who said the 89s were his own sexual Vietnam because he managed not to get HIV through lots of unprotected as with lots of women. If you don't think he's ever pressured a woman into having an abortion, you're not very aware of what kind of man the president really is.
Trump may claim to be pro-life, but this is the man who said the 89s were his own sexual Vietnam because he managed not to get HIV through lots of unprotected as with lots of women. If you don't think he's ever pressured a woman into having an abortion, you're not very aware of what kind of man the president really is.
3
He has hired a lot of Senate confirmed good people. The democrats are the obstructionist minority party. It is the economy stupid left establishment! Our economy will pickup under Trump's administration. Like looking at fifty year old dams in modern engineering terms.
1
It's laughable that you believe the Democrats are the obstructionist party. Have you not paid attention to the last 8 years of the republican obstructionism that paralyzed our country. The democrats far out number republicans and with the extreme religious push of Trump/Pence the left has woken up and will retake the government. We are a country where church and state should remain separate. You are free to practice your own religion in your home house and place of worship but it is my right not to have your beliefs imposed on me. Freedom of religion is for all Americans. Christianity does not and should not dictate public policy.
2
Mr. J. Hogan Gidley finds it in his heart to accept a president who boasts of his sexual predations, as well as his dishonesty ("truthful hyperbole") in business, because that president "protects" the "right" of evangelicals "to be" paragons "of Christian virtue" --- that right exercised by imposing their values on others with the force of law. This puts me in mind of the campaign statement by evangelist spokesman Eric Metaxas that Christians should put aside "petty moral scruples" to elect him. A disturbing number clearly followed his advice.
7
Trump hires good people. Some are religious. I do not see that as bad or a problem.
1
The problem is with your first assertion. There is absolutely nothing to indicate that Trump has ever hired a good person.
14
You are living in la-la land.
1
Evangelicals are not merely factual relativists, they are moral relativists. One need only consider their resistance to Stevenson becoming president on grounds that he was, in contrast to the god-fearing Eisenhower, whose war time romance with his driver they carefully ignored, divorced. That is until Reagan, divorced and remarried, ran for president. Then there was their bigoted response to Jack Kennedy's Catholicism. In this case, the evangelical bigots argued that his religion required Kennedy to owed allegiance to the Pope rather than to the nation. Kennedy refuted that in his address to the evangelicals proposing that as an American his loyalties lay with his oath of office. Them the bigots argued that Kennedy was so ruthless in his desire for the presidency that he would abandon his own faith which made him a bad choice for the presidency. This evangelical perspective was the classic example of "Damed if you do, and damned if you don't." The evangelical grasp of history can only be considered primitive. As an example, in 1861 some northern ministers met with Lincoln and implored him to support a Christian amendment to the constitution which would repair, so they claimed, the godless atheism of the original constitution, which was, so they said, the cause of the Civil War. Is this the same document contemporary evangelicals argue is the source of our allegedly religious origins, or was it an "atheistic error" as the 1860 clergy claim in need of change?
5
Dobson and all the others can now split their thirty pieces of silver. They betrayed their country for their own religious ambitions and will well deserve the same fate.
9
If Trump is the answer to your prayers, you may want to consider the fact that you have been praying to Satan to satisfy your demonic desires.
16
Trump’s life would suggest that he has a good understanding of both sides of the “culture war,” which will be of great value in figuring out how to accommodate everyone, which will be trying at times when they are at cross-purposes, just like families. Many people can relate.
2
Trump knows both sides of the culture war, cause that is what you need to know to take advantage of people. Like most good con-men, you make them think you are addressing their needs, so you can get what you want. Sorry, but Trump's life suggest he is a good manipulator, but has no idea what culture actually is.
What, in his life, brought him to that "good understanding"?
I keep coming back to this as never has such an obviously immoral person had so much cache among religious people as this guy. For TV preacher James Robinson to say Trump is the answer to a prayer, what is it he's praying for? Gifted by God for this moment?
Tell me again, we're supposed to find common ground with this lunacy? We're supposed to listen to this? The picture that accompanies this article, fittingly from a church in Las Vegas, answered the question I've had for a while: what is it about all the zombie movies, books, graphic novels, etc., in our culture these days that is so appealing? This picture captures it - it's a religion and people are rightly afraid of being eaten by it.
Tell me again, we're supposed to find common ground with this lunacy? We're supposed to listen to this? The picture that accompanies this article, fittingly from a church in Las Vegas, answered the question I've had for a while: what is it about all the zombie movies, books, graphic novels, etc., in our culture these days that is so appealing? This picture captures it - it's a religion and people are rightly afraid of being eaten by it.
16
Tom--Well, he is so much like the con artist, evangelical "preachers" who prey upon gullible millions who will believe almost anything, except contradicting, verifiable facts, and don't mind being told what to do, including instructions to hand over their minds and their money. They start the indoctrination at birth. Pretty hard to combat this inherited ignorance.
3
Although I am not evangelical, most all of them did have trouble with Trump's morality. The problem was the other choice was Hilary Clinton. Hilary was rabid about her support of abortion and gay marriage. For most Evangelicals as with most Catholics, they believe life starts at conception. So to them, abortion is no different than saying it is OK to kill a 3 year old or a spouse you don't care about any longer. To them it is murder - killing of the innocent and like most all of us believe we have a duty to stop murder where we can. They also believe that gay marriage impacts all marriages because marriage is not just a private affair but a public one too. Much more could be said about that but it is their belief that gay marriage destroys marriage as God intended it and impacts all marriages. For 8 years they have had this shoved down their throats along with Hilary as the other choice, it is no wonder they elected Trump. They fill like they didn't have any other choice.
1
it's a religion and people are rightly afraid of being eaten by it.
-------------------
Must be about 10 mega non-denominational Christian churches in San Jose, they're gigantic. Home Church, Crossroads Church, etc. Can you handle it, Tom?
-------------------
Must be about 10 mega non-denominational Christian churches in San Jose, they're gigantic. Home Church, Crossroads Church, etc. Can you handle it, Tom?
2
We need a better label for this group other than “religious conservatives”, as they do not represent the majority of Christians in this country. Their rights, as well as the rights of any other religious group, are already protected in this country. What they are pushing is the imposition of their beliefs onto others, and in most cases, they are not widely held beliefs. Do we look to the radical leaders of Islam to speak for all of Islam? No, we used to try to label them as a political force, not as a religious one.
These “religious conservatives” are anti-science, anti-intellectualism, anti-evidence, anti-immigrant, anti-rights, …, invoking strict and selectively parsed bible passages as the rationalization of their beliefs. They want to believe. Elevating narrow and often mean-spirited beliefs as “religiously conservative” and “evangelic” somehow raises them above discussion. If you question them, then you are opposing their “religion”. Co-mingling Church and State enables the political expediency of minimizing debate and transparency, further boosting the political power of what a majority of Americans view as narrow and objectional policies.
Grass-roots evangelicals are the enablers for authoritarianism.
These “religious conservatives” are anti-science, anti-intellectualism, anti-evidence, anti-immigrant, anti-rights, …, invoking strict and selectively parsed bible passages as the rationalization of their beliefs. They want to believe. Elevating narrow and often mean-spirited beliefs as “religiously conservative” and “evangelic” somehow raises them above discussion. If you question them, then you are opposing their “religion”. Co-mingling Church and State enables the political expediency of minimizing debate and transparency, further boosting the political power of what a majority of Americans view as narrow and objectional policies.
Grass-roots evangelicals are the enablers for authoritarianism.
15
I call them the Branch Donaldians, huddled together behind their compound walls, hiding from the outside world as it gets warmer and warmer.
11
How about Christian Fascists?
8
Ultimate--Unfortunately, evangelicals and Christian "recruiters" ARE the majority, in this country. You should look all around you, and speak up if you don't like it, or disagree with them. Don't let them get away with their dangerous political activities. They will become the new American Taliban, if they aren't, already.
3
When are we going to admit that republicans have been radicalized?
15
These un-Christian leaders are only out there to enrich themselves. If they really believed in God, and if they were really concerned about their judgement after death, they would live by the principles of the sermon of the mount. I believe they will eventually meet and mingle with Trump in the appropriate place.
29
Yep. That's right. Those who "revere" the US Constitution and "strictly" interpret it a la their hero Antonin Scalia are now frothing at the mouth to put a religious test to entry into the US and no doubt to citizenship. Go figure, America. There really is no rhyme or reason to Ryan and McConnell's abandonment of core Constitutional principles. Only cowardice on display here. For shame.
9
Abandonment of core Constitutional principles comes in the form of tax cuts. Now that we know what they are, it's really just a matter of Price (pun and slam intended).
1
The word "religious " should be replaced by the word "Christian " in keeping with factual reporting.
5
These people aren't in any way, shape or form Christian.
9
Religion poisons EVERYTHING!
Hopefully this Trump/religious hardliner axis will do for Flannery O'Connor's Wise Blood what the Kellyanne Conway has done for sales of 1984, which is at the top of the heap right now.
Hazel Motes is like Trump, in his concept of "wise blood"- the Wikipedia description is this: "an idea that he has innate, worldly knowledge of what direction to take in life and requires no spiritual or emotional guidance". That pits him against the "local con artist Hoover Shoates who renames himself Onnie Jay Holy and forms The Holy Church of Christ Without Christ".
O'Connor wrote Wise Blood in 1952.
Hazel Motes is like Trump, in his concept of "wise blood"- the Wikipedia description is this: "an idea that he has innate, worldly knowledge of what direction to take in life and requires no spiritual or emotional guidance". That pits him against the "local con artist Hoover Shoates who renames himself Onnie Jay Holy and forms The Holy Church of Christ Without Christ".
O'Connor wrote Wise Blood in 1952.
2
When you see the hypocrisy in the Christian right's support of Trump, one is reminded of Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address where he talks about the North and South both praying to the same benevolent God. Lincoln then ponders the inherent hypocrisy of a group of states praying for divine intervention in a war aimed at maintaining their right to enslave another race. Imagine the Christian right's response if President Obama, a model husband and father, had been caught on tape saying such vulgar things about women. Imagine. Then again the South embraced the scourge of civil war to try to achieve its unjust ends. And today's Christian right embraces the scourge of Trump to achieve theirs.
9
So Trump will protect evangelical 's rights to be evangelical. Who will protect the rights of the rest of us?
13
The ACLU. Time to make another donation.
4
Evangelicals voted for a false prophet. They sold their souls to the devil in order to gain power. They have no real morals, ethics, or "family values " as evidendced by their support of a grifter, sexual predator, and pathological liar. They have now gained all the control they seek but they will pay a terrible price for their choice! We shall all suffer in the mean time. The founders were very precient in their desire to keep church and state apart.
10
I don't want to scare people -especially after we have the attorney general questioning the separation of church and state - but it might be time to re-read "Emerging Republican Platform Goes Far to the Right" (NY Times 7/12/2016) - which lays out what the conservatives want and put forward in their platform. Given that Trump feels beholden to this group - I shudder at what might be coming our way such as "teaching of the Bible in public schools because, the amendment said, a good understanding of its contents is “indispensable for the development of an educated citizenry.”
It is time to do away with the electoral college once and for all.
It is time to do away with the electoral college once and for all.
5
What's indispensable for Republican success at the polls is a sufficiently large number of low-information voters (true believers, ideology over evidence) AND a sufficiently large number of disgusted mainstream non-voters who want nothing to do with it.
"Focus on the Family" means maintaining male dominance. It's not just men who are interested in that. Lots of women vote for it too.
13
joymars, I am not Evangelical but you really have it all wrong. I am Catholic, live in the South and know a lot of Evangelicals. Women are not dominated by men any more down here than they would be in New York. I would say more than that, they run the men around to do what they want. Some women are professionals and some stay at home to raise their children. Some men do that too. It is just our belief that what we all do impacts others that causes so much of our concern. So abortion for example, to us, there doesn’t seem like there could be anything more tragic, more horrible. To us, it is the killing of an innocent life, no different than if we said it was OK to kill a 3 year old child. To us, it is murder so you can imagine that this has been shoved down our throats for years now and sold as someone’s right. To us, it is no different than saying you should have the right to kill your spouse if you don’t like him or her. And that’s just a small piece of the things that we believe have been destroying families in this country for a long time now. I have to tell you that going to the polls and seeing that all you had to choose from was Clinton or Trump, I just shook my head and said, what has our country come to? This is the best we can do. We are in a lot of trouble.
3
Trump’s invitation to religious groups to participate in his government amounts to turning the compass of historical development in modern America back to before the American Revolution, way back to an age of darkness when religious leaders guided the states of Europe.
The Age of Enlightenment of the 18th century was remarkable because as an intellectual movement which dominated the world of ideas in Europe it centered on reason as the primary source of authority and legitimacy, and came to advance ideals like liberty, progress, tolerance, the separation of church and state and the development of constitutional democracies. One of its principle outcomes were the national revolutions in America, France and later in Latin America in which political development, civics and democracy exploded to new heights.
Now Trump wants to turn all modern development backwards to his version of religious fundamentalism in national politics and policies. In this Trump is little different to the religious fundamentalism expressed by Islamic fundamentalists in the Middle East, chief of which is ISIS.
The religious fundamentalism expressed by Trump and ISIS make them strange bedfellows.
The Age of Enlightenment of the 18th century was remarkable because as an intellectual movement which dominated the world of ideas in Europe it centered on reason as the primary source of authority and legitimacy, and came to advance ideals like liberty, progress, tolerance, the separation of church and state and the development of constitutional democracies. One of its principle outcomes were the national revolutions in America, France and later in Latin America in which political development, civics and democracy exploded to new heights.
Now Trump wants to turn all modern development backwards to his version of religious fundamentalism in national politics and policies. In this Trump is little different to the religious fundamentalism expressed by Islamic fundamentalists in the Middle East, chief of which is ISIS.
The religious fundamentalism expressed by Trump and ISIS make them strange bedfellows.
8
“Fundamentalism” is still an inappropriate characterization. The dynamic is enablement of authoritarianism, the surrender of thought and reason by those who want to believe. Call them low-information voters, they are willing to be manipulated for the perceived security of not having to change or compete in the world.
Without a close coupling of Religion & Government, the Civil War would never have happened. Small beer, eh?
Same for the Sistine Chapel, Sacre Coeur, Bernini's sculpture of Teresa de Avila in ecstasy and, yes, the Alhambra.
Same for the Sistine Chapel, Sacre Coeur, Bernini's sculpture of Teresa de Avila in ecstasy and, yes, the Alhambra.
The word " conservative " needs to be replaced by the word " fundamentalist " for that is what these folk are. Like Trump, they decry the word " compromise " for they believe that they are always right !! They have an infallibility complex .
13
It's enuff to give a Liberal the Statesboro Blues.
2
It is frightening how different the beliefs have become of those in New York to those in the middle states and the south. I believe both are good people but somehow we have gone in different direction. I read these comments from the left and then the right and they are all extreme. Not really how I think most people are. Both use name calling and really neither has a clue how each really are. The comments I see on the New York Times seem to not understand Evangelicals. I do think the fact that some of their pastors make so much money is a poor example for Christianity. That would not be what Jesus would do. But they do believe in protecting the innocent believe it or not. They were forced into voting for Trump because there were no really good Republic candidates to run against him, and the only other choice was Hilary. For most of us it was choosing the least of the worst.
2
YES ! I do have the Statesboro Blues. Good thoughts to all of you in CA and the water situation.
2
In another editorial Mustafa Akyol was speaking about Muslims learning from Jesus. Really though, his observations are as true for fundamentalists everywhere, ironically including the Christian fundamentalists, when he said "Jesus showed that sacrificing the spirit of religion to literalism leads to horrors..." In other words - don't throw the baby out with the bathwater.
Akyol's premise is that Jesus "called on his fellow Jews to focus on their religion’s moral principles, rather than obsessing with the minute details of religious law." and "He also taught that obsession with outward expressions of piety can nurture a culture of hypocrisy —"
So does Akyol's insight strike a similar chord in this context as well?
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/13/opinion/what-jesus-can-teach-todays-m...®ion=opinion-c-col-right-region&WT.nav=opinion-c-col-right-region
Akyol's premise is that Jesus "called on his fellow Jews to focus on their religion’s moral principles, rather than obsessing with the minute details of religious law." and "He also taught that obsession with outward expressions of piety can nurture a culture of hypocrisy —"
So does Akyol's insight strike a similar chord in this context as well?
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/13/opinion/what-jesus-can-teach-todays-m...®ion=opinion-c-col-right-region&WT.nav=opinion-c-col-right-region
2
If i were a prayer oriented person i would press the sky daddy of us all to expose this Orange charlatan and part the waters to some lonely atoll far away where he and his angry minions might fly to and live in their anger and disharmony all the days remaining to them. amen.
7
The right-wing so-called "Christians" of the US would make Christ weep for their hypocrisy, these holier-than-thou (and blinder than they'd admit) people who proclaim their "faith" to justify bigotry, lust for material wealth, and xenophobia.
13
Let's not forgot ignorance, anti-intellectualism, and authoritarianism. They want to believe.
2
The so called "Christians" have once more sold out to the Powers. Before it was the Romans, today it is the Politicians. This is nothing new. They have always been hypocrites and perverters of the message of Jesus. But by embracing Trump, they have shown themselves to be utterly dishonorable and have nothing in common with the Man they profess to worship. May they repent and ask God for forgiveness.
5
These so-called evangelical Christians evidently do not read their Bibles, especially not the gospel of Matthew. I suggest they read Matthew 25, the parable ending with: Whatsoever you do to the least of these my brethren, you do to me. And Matthew 6:24: No man can serve two masters... You cannot serve God and mammon. These people are the farthest thing from Christian -- they are more like the anti-Christ, monsters dressed up like lambs.
I've noticed the right wing calls things the opposite of what they really are. The "freedom caucus' is about tyranny. "Religious freedom" is about instituting one religion with which to beat the citizens over the head, taking away our rights. Just as Trump's belief in clean air and clean water would take away regulations against pollution, giving us a toxic atmosphere in which to live. These so-called "Christians" would give us a toxic idea of spirituality.
I've noticed the right wing calls things the opposite of what they really are. The "freedom caucus' is about tyranny. "Religious freedom" is about instituting one religion with which to beat the citizens over the head, taking away our rights. Just as Trump's belief in clean air and clean water would take away regulations against pollution, giving us a toxic atmosphere in which to live. These so-called "Christians" would give us a toxic idea of spirituality.
5
It seems I remember that lying is included in that list of sins. And groping. And rape.
What would Jesus do? We don't need to speculate we have a record of what he did. He fed the poor and the multitudes and he threw the bankers and merchants out of the temple. This modern batch of so called christians does exactly the opposite.
They will dance with the devil that brought them and that devil is named t rump. A man with the moral fiber of a cockroach.
What would Jesus do? We don't need to speculate we have a record of what he did. He fed the poor and the multitudes and he threw the bankers and merchants out of the temple. This modern batch of so called christians does exactly the opposite.
They will dance with the devil that brought them and that devil is named t rump. A man with the moral fiber of a cockroach.
7
Cockroaches have a much higher moral fiber than that angry orange apparition in our WH! More akin to a tick or mosquito imho!
5
Your other article about our legislators just ignoring the cost of business with Trump by making excuses when he throws McCain under the bus and they say nothing -or when he wipes his feet on our Constitution with a muslim ban, but it serves their goals and they just say "Now did he? and smile at reporters, is a study in what he is doing with fundamentalist religious hardliners too.
He gave them each a credit card so to speak and they are like teens at the Country Club. The voters are going to make sure these guys get thrown out. Keep it up- we're watching and tallying the bill.
He gave them each a credit card so to speak and they are like teens at the Country Club. The voters are going to make sure these guys get thrown out. Keep it up- we're watching and tallying the bill.
3
If these churches want a say in the government, then they should be willing to give up their tax exemptions, including local or state property taxes.
11
How long before churches are people too under Citizens United?
3
Since PETA says "Pets are people too," and behaves as if that is so, it should not be too long, Marie.
"I don't want to see religious bigotry in any form. It would disturb me if there was a wedding between the religious fundamentalists and the political right. The hard right has no interest in religion except to manipulate it." Billy Graham made this prophetic statement in Parade magazine, 1 Feb, 1981, years after repenting and learning from his own serious mistake re Richard Nixon . Sometimes the apple does fall far from the tree as in the case of son Franklin. Sadly, the religious right has failed to heed these words of wisdom from none other than Billy Graham himself.
4
The "Christian" right does not know the meaning of the word Christian.
8
Where do we sign up to get off the hook for paying these guys taxes for them?
14
I hope the next president and members of the Supreme Court will firmly uphold the establishment clause of the First Amendment that through long precedent has established a separation of church and state. I would like to live in a modern democracy free from the fetters of the Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, KKK, or other "alt-right" organizations that typically want to suppress women, voters who don't hold their particular religious views, or people of the colors or ethnicities they abhor. The Gospel of Prosperity folks who somehow believe that their wealth is due to God's favor and their smug superiority over others with less are particularly noisome. Jesus would retch on their pulpits.
7
This breath taking hypocrisy of the US based Cristian Taliban is rearing its ugly head once again. Trump is using them as much as they are using Trump.
Sorry, Cristian Taliban- but while you are vocal- you are indeed a minority. If you think you will gain any lasting power in this country, you are as delusional as you are evil.
Sorry, Cristian Taliban- but while you are vocal- you are indeed a minority. If you think you will gain any lasting power in this country, you are as delusional as you are evil.
15
Wow, more hate. What did Religious Conservatives ever do to you, Marian. The best thing Trump's election did for the country is to "out" the hatred hiding under Liberal facades of caring. Baloney.
1
Dlud: Thank you for asking.
These particular hardline religious are of various sects but they want to legalize discrimination, have the rest of the population pick up their tax bill, and sponsor legislation favoring themselves over the rest of America.
Baloney is right- the majority do not want this type of intolerance in our government or anywhere else.
These particular hardline religious are of various sects but they want to legalize discrimination, have the rest of the population pick up their tax bill, and sponsor legislation favoring themselves over the rest of America.
Baloney is right- the majority do not want this type of intolerance in our government or anywhere else.
5
Dlud - If you ever actually read the news you would know just what these people have done to us, they've limited women's access to health care, they've dumbed down education, they've tried to prevent people from marrying the person they love and they've installed multiple war mongers in the White House resulting in thousands of deaths and injuries.
3
Christian conservatives claim to be followers of Jesus Christ. Whose side do you think Jesus would take...Trump or the Mexican woman recently deported resulting in splitting up a family? The hypocrisy of the Christian Right is glaring.
29
I answered that Mike about 90 sec. after it appeared, but it's still in the Q, I guess.
I believe that Trump is using these people to fan the flames of culture war while he gains economic power.
Evangelicals are a rapidly declining population. In the long run they will have no political power. They are just tools of distraction while this madman builds his kleptocracy.
Evangelicals are a rapidly declining population. In the long run they will have no political power. They are just tools of distraction while this madman builds his kleptocracy.
12
Can you imagine Jesus fighting tooth and and nail to deny health care to the multitudes? or enable the rich to demolish the poor with an ever increasing gap in wealth and wages.
To paraphrase Luke 19:46: You have taken our house and made it a den of thieves and robbers.
Shame on you Donald Trump but even more shame on those claiming Christ as their Savior who voted for you.
To paraphrase Luke 19:46: You have taken our house and made it a den of thieves and robbers.
Shame on you Donald Trump but even more shame on those claiming Christ as their Savior who voted for you.
24
"What doth it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his own soul?"(Jesus Christ) And "All these things will I give you if you will fall down and worship me" (Lucifer). These people have sold their souls simply to gain access to power. While obsessing over their pet agendas, they ignore the "weightier aspects of the law]" both divine and secular in their callousness towards the poor, towards immigrants and most others oppressed. As holy scripture says, "There is a way that seems right unto a man, but therein is the way to destruction".
8
And not mention of LGBT civil rights, which are being attacked in red states. Great reporting. Thanks.
11
Stop pretending these people are "religious" in a normal, Christian way. These people are the equivalent of the extremist Islam of the Taliban, and among their leaders are those who cynically use that extremism to magnify and enrich themselves. Stop pretending the Family Research Council is anything but the hate group the Southern Poverty Law Center has branded them. If Christ himself were to return today, he would be the first to tear down their temples to mammon and power. The fact that people like these who trumpet their own righteousness can justify supporting a venal lying scoundrel like DJT lays bare their hypocisies.
17
I've said that central tenet of Republican thinking is "The end justifies the means". That is exactly what Ms. Nance and Mr. Gidley are saying when they say:
"He doesn’t pretend to be a Bible-banging evangelical,” Ms. Nance, an evangelical Christian herself, added.
“And we respect that.“You don’t need to be one of us to get our vote,” said J. Hogan Gidley, a Republican strategist said.
And it shows that the "Christian" right has no christian morals or principles.
And I can't imagine that James Dobson, the founder of Focus on the Family; Tony Perkins, the president of the Family Research Council; James Robison, the Christian television preacher would be at all happy in the Episcopal churches to which I've belonged in NH and Mass where acceptance and inclusiveness are the norm.
"He doesn’t pretend to be a Bible-banging evangelical,” Ms. Nance, an evangelical Christian herself, added.
“And we respect that.“You don’t need to be one of us to get our vote,” said J. Hogan Gidley, a Republican strategist said.
And it shows that the "Christian" right has no christian morals or principles.
And I can't imagine that James Dobson, the founder of Focus on the Family; Tony Perkins, the president of the Family Research Council; James Robison, the Christian television preacher would be at all happy in the Episcopal churches to which I've belonged in NH and Mass where acceptance and inclusiveness are the norm.
10
Xianity has had many incarnations in its 2,000 swath through western history. There's the conflicting things Jesus said, and the bizarrely frightening sayings in the New Testament books that his supposed apostles wrote. Seeing Xianity as a sweet religion misinterpreted by goons is naive. It had paranoid and cruel issues from the get-go.
Feeling responsibility to the poor and marginalized is an aspect of Xianity that the secular left-wing has taken to its heart. We chose it from a slew of stuff in the NT. Most church-goers go and stay in church out of fear, not love. They have chosen different set of beliefs from the NT. Yes, there are different sets of beliefs in Xianity -- and in all religions. It's time we on the left stay alert and smart about how religions work -- and how they are a pox on human peace and its future. Don't expect these "Xians" to suddenly see the humane light.
Feeling responsibility to the poor and marginalized is an aspect of Xianity that the secular left-wing has taken to its heart. We chose it from a slew of stuff in the NT. Most church-goers go and stay in church out of fear, not love. They have chosen different set of beliefs from the NT. Yes, there are different sets of beliefs in Xianity -- and in all religions. It's time we on the left stay alert and smart about how religions work -- and how they are a pox on human peace and its future. Don't expect these "Xians" to suddenly see the humane light.
3
Trump's alignment with conservative extremists, the religious right, alt-right, Tea Party is far more terrifying than any of the refugees he is trying to ban. Trump is a tool for these people, they would never have had any opportunity to execute their narrow minded, extreme agenda of hate without him. They are highly organized and they vote. There are more reasonable minded people in this country, we need to adopt their persistence and commitment if we hope to minimize the damage they can do and get them out of power.
7
Wrong, they are a tool for him. It's not about the content. It's about absolute power and lunacy.
2
By "religious right" do you mean "Christian right"?
4
It's long past time to rename the "Religious Right." The word "religion" has some actual substantive content. Any organization which allies itself with an individual whose entire life is the very antithesis of the commonly-claimed "religious" virtues (piety, charity, humility, morality, devotion, loyalty, etc.) cannot, by definition, be said to be engaged in religious pursuits. Unless making a deal with the Devil is now considered to be a religious virtue, exalted above all others.
So, some suggestions to update the hopelessly-antiquated religious right sobriquet: The Bismark Adoration Society. Heirs To Machiavelli Institute. Or my personal favorite: Winners, 2017 George Orwell Prize for Doublespeak in Pursuit of the Suppression of Liberty. Surely any one of these would more clearly state the goals and purposes of the tax-exempt Right.
So, some suggestions to update the hopelessly-antiquated religious right sobriquet: The Bismark Adoration Society. Heirs To Machiavelli Institute. Or my personal favorite: Winners, 2017 George Orwell Prize for Doublespeak in Pursuit of the Suppression of Liberty. Surely any one of these would more clearly state the goals and purposes of the tax-exempt Right.
9
We have the so called president of the US, who waged a relentless 8 year campaign of outrageous lies to deny respect and legitimacy to our former President, now asking for our respect. Well, he doesn't get it. To me, and millions more, he is not our president. He has no claim to legitimacy or respect. We will resist him in every way possible, and bring our protests to his windows.
11
Religion has always been and will always be a tool of charlatans, con artists, swindlers and lunatics.
9
So, being that Trump is.... it fits right in then?
But you know, I've known beautiful wonderful ministers and others who were either extremely good at appearing to care for others and in a sincere belief of the teachings of Jesus who must have been lunatics because they certainly weren't charlatans, con artists, or swindlers. While there are too many charlatans, con artists, or swindlers who wish to seize control and/or wealth there are those who I've know who are not and while you may believe them deluded their beliefs have hurt no one I know, and have actually helped.
But you know, I've known beautiful wonderful ministers and others who were either extremely good at appearing to care for others and in a sincere belief of the teachings of Jesus who must have been lunatics because they certainly weren't charlatans, con artists, or swindlers. While there are too many charlatans, con artists, or swindlers who wish to seize control and/or wealth there are those who I've know who are not and while you may believe them deluded their beliefs have hurt no one I know, and have actually helped.
2
As an Evangelical Christian myself, I am ashamed of this "religious" leaders supporting Mr. Trump. To me, they are selfish and self-center, only caring to what is important to them and forgetting their neighbor in need. They should go back and read everything Jesus said about caring for your fellow men. If they actually paid attention, they would see how Mr. Trump is picking and bullying the most vulnerable in American society: Refugees and illegal immigrants. Seriously, DO YOU THINK THESE PEOPLE WANTED TO FLEE THEIR COUNTRY FOR A SO CALLED BETTER LIFE IN AMERICA? I am absolutely pro life, and I think we should care for the unborn, but what about caring for all these vulnerable people who are already in our midst? If the religious right wants to be respected, they should truly follow Jesus' teaching and extend their interest and care, raising their voices to oppose any Trump's policies that violets the sanctity of ANY life. Only when they do these, they would have any credibility and respect in my eyes.
8
What happened to that money changer thing? The one where Christ went Wall Street sit in on the guys doing business in the temple? Isn't Trump the ultimate money changer?
17
I grew up in a Southern Baptist church when Baptists believed in the separation of church and state. Every year we had at least one Sunday School lesson and one sermon from the pulpit on the importance of that separation.
I think some Baptists understood its importance because they thought they were a minority whose beliefs could be crushed by the government if that government was aligned with other religions. Of course, they considered both Roman Catholics and mainstream Protestants (and certainly Jews) to be "the other." (They hardly knew Muslims existed.) While many in my church truly "got it," others supported the idea of protecting minority beliefs only because they thought they were the minority most likely to need protection.
Everything changed when Southern Baptists and people who believed as they did began to consider themselves the "silent majority." Then they didn't want separation because they wanted their beliefs promoted by the state. Then protecting minority beliefs became unnecessary.
American fundamentalists want their own version of sharia law in this country. They think they are different from fundamentalists in Iran and other Muslim countries and Orthodox Jews in Israel but they are truly just the same. "My religion and only my religion is correct. The laws and policies I prefer are best for everyone."
Many of the Southern Baptist ministers, deacons, and Sunday School teachers of my youth have to be turning over in their graves.
I think some Baptists understood its importance because they thought they were a minority whose beliefs could be crushed by the government if that government was aligned with other religions. Of course, they considered both Roman Catholics and mainstream Protestants (and certainly Jews) to be "the other." (They hardly knew Muslims existed.) While many in my church truly "got it," others supported the idea of protecting minority beliefs only because they thought they were the minority most likely to need protection.
Everything changed when Southern Baptists and people who believed as they did began to consider themselves the "silent majority." Then they didn't want separation because they wanted their beliefs promoted by the state. Then protecting minority beliefs became unnecessary.
American fundamentalists want their own version of sharia law in this country. They think they are different from fundamentalists in Iran and other Muslim countries and Orthodox Jews in Israel but they are truly just the same. "My religion and only my religion is correct. The laws and policies I prefer are best for everyone."
Many of the Southern Baptist ministers, deacons, and Sunday School teachers of my youth have to be turning over in their graves.
26
Donald Trump is merely using the religious conservatives to push his clumsy fascist/racist agenda. Once this group is in his pocket he will dump them. Religion means nothing to him. Nor the bible nor the constitution, neither of which he has read.
11
Group control is the goal of both religion and government. They are in the same business and have been for thousands of years.
Fundamentalist religions rely upon edicts formulated in the Bronze Age. This is not practical in the Nuclear Age.
Fundamentalist religions rely upon edicts formulated in the Bronze Age. This is not practical in the Nuclear Age.
11
I grew up evangelical - church on Sunday morning, Weds night, youth groups, religious school...
The evangelical tradition is fundamentally anti-democratic. Its foundation is not mutual respect and tolerance. This is a cult that gives lip service to free will and then practices the art of running roughshod over it.
Anti-Catholic dogma is absolutely rampant. I can attest from my own memories. I was taught that Catholics were idol worshippers. Trump's favorite pastor, Rev Jeffress believes that the Catholic church is the work of Satan, the ancient Babylonian mystery religion whose leaders would wear fish-heads.
Decent Christians, who understand the separation of church and state as critical to free exercise of religion, MUST stand against this unholy alliance with Trump. This isn't about faith or love, it's about control. If the evangelicals have their way, expect Catholic persecution in short order.
The evangelical tradition is fundamentally anti-democratic. Its foundation is not mutual respect and tolerance. This is a cult that gives lip service to free will and then practices the art of running roughshod over it.
Anti-Catholic dogma is absolutely rampant. I can attest from my own memories. I was taught that Catholics were idol worshippers. Trump's favorite pastor, Rev Jeffress believes that the Catholic church is the work of Satan, the ancient Babylonian mystery religion whose leaders would wear fish-heads.
Decent Christians, who understand the separation of church and state as critical to free exercise of religion, MUST stand against this unholy alliance with Trump. This isn't about faith or love, it's about control. If the evangelicals have their way, expect Catholic persecution in short order.
19
I see most of the people writing comments here are not very religious.
In reality, the religious conservatives are not that important.
The thing to keep in mind is that Trump won because he assembled a very strong coalition:
1.- The people suffering because of the lack of jobs and a future.
2.- The people afraid of terrorism and therefore against anything Muslim.
3.- The people against illegal immigrants.
4.- The evangelical conservatives.
5.- The people who hated Hillary.
The democrats are not making progress with any of these people, except maybe for the Hillary haters, as she is most probably out of the picture.
Groups 2 and 3 most probably constitute a majority of the country, while group 1 is also critical.
In reality, the religious conservatives are not that important.
The thing to keep in mind is that Trump won because he assembled a very strong coalition:
1.- The people suffering because of the lack of jobs and a future.
2.- The people afraid of terrorism and therefore against anything Muslim.
3.- The people against illegal immigrants.
4.- The evangelical conservatives.
5.- The people who hated Hillary.
The democrats are not making progress with any of these people, except maybe for the Hillary haters, as she is most probably out of the picture.
Groups 2 and 3 most probably constitute a majority of the country, while group 1 is also critical.
2
Comments like this one make me think fighting for America just isn't worth my time or effort. If the majority of America is ignorant, backward, and racist, then it deserves exactly what it's going to get under Trump and Bannon.
Why would anyone want to go backwards into the dark ages is beyond me, but I'm tired of shouting at people to look out before they get there. That's what they want, they can have it. It's their children who will inherit their ignorance and self-destruction. I don't have kids.
Why would anyone want to go backwards into the dark ages is beyond me, but I'm tired of shouting at people to look out before they get there. That's what they want, they can have it. It's their children who will inherit their ignorance and self-destruction. I don't have kids.
1
I agree with some of the other commenters regarding the value of separation of church and state. Though I find it interesting how the main religion nonreligious people find to be worth scrutinizing is Christianity. To broadly scrutinize Jewish people is often seen as anti Semitic. If I attack the doctrine of Islam, I am likely to be meet with accusations of islamophobia. Is there a word used for broadly scrutinizing all Christians? That's viewed as acceptable discourse even where Christianity overlaps with other religions. A Christians view on homosexuality is challenged, whereas a muslim's view which by doctrine is the much of the same and in many countries more extreme is above reproach. I understand the difference in terms of marginalized vs nonmarginalized but if our scrutiny is to be about doctrine then should not all groups be fair game? I fear anything else would be intellectually dishonest.
2
If I had to hazard a guess, the focus on Christianity is because all the religious leaders mentioned in the article are Christians, the people who follow them are Christians, and the vast majority of religious people in the US are Christians. About 2/3 of Americans are avowed Christians, the next largest are non-religious, and everybody else (including Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, pagans, and quite a few others) makes up under 10% of the US.
1
I do want to see a wall. A big tall bomb proof wall between church and state. Otherwise, welcome to the home of the Christofascists.
7
Any religious leader who would praise this egotistical, cheating, self-centred, admitted sexual assaulter, with a proven record of deception, has to be seriously questioned. Then again, look a the homes of these so called Christian televangelists and their constant desire and praise of money and you see the real like is not Christianity but money. They should all be losing their tax exemptions that pay for their mansion "parishes"
12
All this shows is that there is no limit to the gullibility of the Religious Right, and the greed of their leaders. It's truly pathetic that these deluded bumpkins will ignore the evidence before their eyes in the form of a serially philandering, gutter mouthed, con man who never showed the slightest interest in their sort of religion before he ran, and swallow the load of baloney dumped on them by their leadership, a bunch of money grubbing grifters who will say anything that will allow them to squeeze more donations out of their largely impoverished flocks. Disgusting from every angle!
11
How do we know that this is all just a trade deal for Power? History is full of examples of autocrats making cozy deals with people who call themselves "very religious" who oddly, it turns out to be A-OK with the behavior of the guy who has them on a short leash.
Trump doesnt work for free Mr. Perkins and Mr. Dobson. That these folks think what they are doing is consistent with any actual spiritual practice is laughable.
Your blindness does not make you invisible. Mr. Putin goes to Church too.
Trump doesnt work for free Mr. Perkins and Mr. Dobson. That these folks think what they are doing is consistent with any actual spiritual practice is laughable.
Your blindness does not make you invisible. Mr. Putin goes to Church too.
7
There's a longer agenda than one suspects:
- Make Pastor Bob's tax returns as opaque as Donald Trump's;
- All-white evangelical school-boards supported by public taxes;
- Dissolve Dept. of Education;
- The right to not hire, refuse service to, and not rent to, anyone they suspect is gay;
- Evangelical condominiums in settlements on the West Bank;
- Make sure Islam is not considered a religion, and no federal law protects Muslims or their civil rights;
- Partisan politics through tax-exempted churches and church-run front groups;
- Televangelism coded as Educational and tax-exempt;
- Honorary degrees at Yale for Kellyanne and Ann Coulter, followed by a Chair in Creation Theory at UCLA.
- Make Pastor Bob's tax returns as opaque as Donald Trump's;
- All-white evangelical school-boards supported by public taxes;
- Dissolve Dept. of Education;
- The right to not hire, refuse service to, and not rent to, anyone they suspect is gay;
- Evangelical condominiums in settlements on the West Bank;
- Make sure Islam is not considered a religion, and no federal law protects Muslims or their civil rights;
- Partisan politics through tax-exempted churches and church-run front groups;
- Televangelism coded as Educational and tax-exempt;
- Honorary degrees at Yale for Kellyanne and Ann Coulter, followed by a Chair in Creation Theory at UCLA.
6
Not the first time religious zealots have fallen victim to a conman. Won't be the last.
9
I think that the religious right leaders referenced in this article alleging their support for Trump is in deference to God are worshipping the power they feel through association with the president rather than the Jesus they claim to serve.
I can't help but wonder whether they or other evangelical Christians so enamored with Trump have ever read the New Testament. If they had, they would know that rather than selling out his faith to government leaders as they have, he submitted himself to arrest, a trial, conviction and being put to death.
Unlike James Dobson, Franklin Graham, Tony Perkins, James Robison and some other Trump supporters, Jesus' life and ministry were dedicated to public service rather than politics. His priority - as should be anyone's who call themselves Christians, was the Kingdom of Heaven, which he stated, is not of this world.
I can't help but wonder whether they or other evangelical Christians so enamored with Trump have ever read the New Testament. If they had, they would know that rather than selling out his faith to government leaders as they have, he submitted himself to arrest, a trial, conviction and being put to death.
Unlike James Dobson, Franklin Graham, Tony Perkins, James Robison and some other Trump supporters, Jesus' life and ministry were dedicated to public service rather than politics. His priority - as should be anyone's who call themselves Christians, was the Kingdom of Heaven, which he stated, is not of this world.
28
Is this the Cultural Revolution, American style?
These people are not Christians ! They are using Christianity to further their own agenda. They are the Christian equivalent of ISSIS! They use the cloak of Christianity to terrorize other groups. They cannot accept the right of others to think and make decisions for themselves. They voted into power a white supremacist who completely divided up the country so he could win. He does not have any of their "Christian values", but they voted for him anyway because they recognize he would be easily manipulated to achieve their purpose. Remember the KKK symbol is a cross! The cross which is the ultimate symbol of God's love for humans. The most hateful group on earth professes to be Christians.
Americans should see these people for what they are . Real Christians should stand up and vigorously oppose these people. We should speak up , just like we insisted that real Muslims condemn ISSIS. The real Christian leaders are needed now more than ever.
Americans should see these people for what they are . Real Christians should stand up and vigorously oppose these people. We should speak up , just like we insisted that real Muslims condemn ISSIS. The real Christian leaders are needed now more than ever.
10
Many of our forefathers came to this country to escape religious persecution.
It's beginning to look like the country has come full circle - back to what many wanted to get away from.
It's beginning to look like the country has come full circle - back to what many wanted to get away from.
6
Yikes! More fear and loathing ... the "religious conservatives" have influence on our government ... the Christian Crusades begin again ... it's so comforting to have evangelicals and the pastors have their voices heard in government legislation especially when those voices are coming from the voice of God in their heads...
I'm going to be sick once again. I just cannot keep anything down.
I'm going to be sick once again. I just cannot keep anything down.
6
Or, to quote some classics:
"Talibans of all countries, and denominations, unite!"
Indeed, talibans have nothing to do with the religions they misrepresent as Andy W commented.
But united they are in their fanaticism, lack of inclusion and tolerance, and righteous ignorance.
"Talibans of all countries, and denominations, unite!"
Indeed, talibans have nothing to do with the religions they misrepresent as Andy W commented.
But united they are in their fanaticism, lack of inclusion and tolerance, and righteous ignorance.
7
What I find most frightening is that there is very little difference between the objectives of the religious right and radical Islam. Both want to impose their beliefs on others and control their actions; both love guns and have a tendency for violence; and both are righteous and think their God is the true God.
11
“He doesn’t pretend to be a Bible-banging evangelical,” Ms. Nance, an evangelical Christian herself, added. “And we respect that. But he was also very clear about what he was going to do, what positions he was going to take, what he was going to support for the country. And it lined up with what evangelicals wanted.”
Yeah, not a Bible-banger. But I'm sure he bangs.... Surely, they have been seduced by the Devil. "I'll give you whatever you want...just first give yourself over to me..."
Yeah, not a Bible-banger. But I'm sure he bangs.... Surely, they have been seduced by the Devil. "I'll give you whatever you want...just first give yourself over to me..."
8
Our Government should be officially atheist. There should be no laws passed which give preference to one religion over another. Evangelicals who support Trump see in him a person who would possibly override the establishment clause in the constitution and make their religion official. There is no official religion in the US, period. There is no law which makes a religion official. There should never be any. Keep your faith, worship as you please, but those practices belong in the pews not in the halls of government.
5
I'm an atheist, and pretty adamant about it. But "officially atheist"? No. That is also imposing a belief on people. We need to convince people of what's true, not order them to believe what we believe. And I'm allowing for you having mis-stated your point, but not all mis-statements are the same. It's one thing for me to say "there is no God." It's an entirely different thing for that to be the position of the government, just as it is wrong for the government to say there is a God.
3
Of course, here in the state of Idaho a Republican has introduced legislation to prohibit Islamic Sharia law from being implemented in our courts. A proverbial solution in search of a problem which doesn't exist. Last year, the legislature decided to pass a statute allowing for the use of Bible teaching in world literature classes, which I suspect was a backdoor way to have Bible instruction in our public schools. Bottom line is this: for Evangelical Christians their Sharia law is fine and must be imposed upon all people. All other religions are evil, theirs is the only true one, and they have the right to impose lt upon all of the rest of us via their interpretation of a 2000 year old myth. I've come to the conclusion that there are two types of con men in this world: those who steal your wallet and those who want to steal your soul.
14
About time the NYT shed some light on the religious agenda at play. It's evident from cabinet picks & policy initiatives that this is a major piece. While Peters makes some v important observations, the article misses the MUCH bigger story: after all these years of trying the Christian R is now FIRMLY in the WH.
Trump is just the useful vehicle the Christian R (now in open alignment w Alt-R) has used to pull of a tremendous coup. He won the Presidency in large part with the help of Bannon & Conway, who were supplied to him by the billionaire heiress Bekah Mercer. The Mercers originally backed Christian fundamentalist Ted Cruz, who was more in line with their ideology. They noted Trump's rise however and were savvy enough to switch horses, pulling Conway from Cruz' campaign to work for Trump.
The secretive Mercers bankroll Breitbart and own the highly successful voter profiling firm Cambridge Analytica. Both were put to use on Trump's campaign. The Mercers convinced Trump to choose Christian conservative Pence as VP and have handpicked most of the incoming cabinet on the basis of their religious views, rather than their qualifications.
Bannon leads the army with an extreme agenda that pits America in a holy war against Islam and which sees Russia is a key ally in a global realignment of power against Muslim countries & China.
This is >>> Trump. The sooner the media starts covering the larger agenda at play the better the chances of our Republic surviving this crisis.
Trump is just the useful vehicle the Christian R (now in open alignment w Alt-R) has used to pull of a tremendous coup. He won the Presidency in large part with the help of Bannon & Conway, who were supplied to him by the billionaire heiress Bekah Mercer. The Mercers originally backed Christian fundamentalist Ted Cruz, who was more in line with their ideology. They noted Trump's rise however and were savvy enough to switch horses, pulling Conway from Cruz' campaign to work for Trump.
The secretive Mercers bankroll Breitbart and own the highly successful voter profiling firm Cambridge Analytica. Both were put to use on Trump's campaign. The Mercers convinced Trump to choose Christian conservative Pence as VP and have handpicked most of the incoming cabinet on the basis of their religious views, rather than their qualifications.
Bannon leads the army with an extreme agenda that pits America in a holy war against Islam and which sees Russia is a key ally in a global realignment of power against Muslim countries & China.
This is >>> Trump. The sooner the media starts covering the larger agenda at play the better the chances of our Republic surviving this crisis.
11
Have they read "Elmer Gantry"? If not, they should at least watch the movie next time it comes around on TCM.
4
Now if he'd just protect our rights not to be a Christian . . . .
14
There are some excellent posts on this page but there are, unfortunately, many which promote the ridiculous idea that Christians have, in some way, been persecuted and muzzled during the Obama administration. Not being allowed to discriminate against those with whom they disagree or withholding equality from those whose lifestyles or religions they dislike is, apparently, evidence of this horrific censure. In a country where Christians are the majority religion and control three branches of the government, they are still victimized.
Their embrace of Donald Trump reveals the depths of their hypocrisy. I know there are many decent Christians who live by their religious teachings without feeling the need to enforce them on the entire population. The rest of them, the rabid right, who cast themselves as the moral arbiters of the country, need to be held in check however possible or we'll end the Trump/Pence years as a Christian version of Saudi Arabia.
Their embrace of Donald Trump reveals the depths of their hypocrisy. I know there are many decent Christians who live by their religious teachings without feeling the need to enforce them on the entire population. The rest of them, the rabid right, who cast themselves as the moral arbiters of the country, need to be held in check however possible or we'll end the Trump/Pence years as a Christian version of Saudi Arabia.
30
“Donald Trump didn’t walk around pretending to be this paragon of Christian virtue. What he did was say he’d protect your right to be one.”
What kind of rubbish is this? These people have every right to believe any ridiculous thing they want to and be fabulous paragons of "Christian virtue," whatever that is supposed to mean.
No, the problem the religious extremists have is that they think their "freedom of religion" means that the rest of the society is supposed to follow their rules so they don't have to feel offended that there are things going on in this society that are "against" their religion. Take the classic "I don't want to make homosexuals wedding cakes because homosexuality is against my religion" argument. Now imagine that person claiming "I don't want to make people who eat pork and shellfish (forbidden according to the Bible) wedding cakes because eating pork and shellfish is against my religion." Or maybe they can also claim they don't want to make wedding cakes for people who use contraception. Their self absorption seems to have no end. People have the freedom of religion, but they do not have the right to be free from being offended by what other people choose to do. And since we don't allow discrimination based on religion that means they don't get to discriminate either. If they don't like that they are welcome to move to one of those fun countries that is a theocracy.
What kind of rubbish is this? These people have every right to believe any ridiculous thing they want to and be fabulous paragons of "Christian virtue," whatever that is supposed to mean.
No, the problem the religious extremists have is that they think their "freedom of religion" means that the rest of the society is supposed to follow their rules so they don't have to feel offended that there are things going on in this society that are "against" their religion. Take the classic "I don't want to make homosexuals wedding cakes because homosexuality is against my religion" argument. Now imagine that person claiming "I don't want to make people who eat pork and shellfish (forbidden according to the Bible) wedding cakes because eating pork and shellfish is against my religion." Or maybe they can also claim they don't want to make wedding cakes for people who use contraception. Their self absorption seems to have no end. People have the freedom of religion, but they do not have the right to be free from being offended by what other people choose to do. And since we don't allow discrimination based on religion that means they don't get to discriminate either. If they don't like that they are welcome to move to one of those fun countries that is a theocracy.
10
The GOP's sellout to the religious right is the primary reason I always vote Democratic. In 2016 they proved that they will help elect ANYONE who promises to implement their regressive policies regardless if that person is qualified (he is not) or is a pathological lier (he is). This is both disgusting and extremely dangerous to our democracy.
17
Tony Perkins, James Dobbs, Franklin Graham and the rest of these far-right Christianists do not appear to care about constitutional protections, only the protection of their theology. I guess if you can believe in a deity, you can also believe in Trump, who appears to believe he is a deity.
5
Mr. Trump has "given many conservative Christian leaders his personal cellphone number" and "solicited their advice for filling key positions." His Attorney General "has questioned the wisdom of separating church and state."
Trump and Bannon are hell-bent on discrediting the free press, labeling the mainstream media "the opposition party" and telling journalists and newscasters to shut their mouths. Any negative polls, unflattering news stories or attempts to highlight the pathological lying going on are vociferously called "fake news."
The morning of the inauguration, James Robison, the Christian television preacher, give a six minute homily extolling the wonders of Trump, followed by the hymn "Onward Christian Soldiers."
The lyrics begin:
Onward Christian soldiers
Marching as to war
With the cross of Jesus
Going on before.
To those who characterize the resistance as a bunch of whiny elite lefties who can't handle losing, I will fight back with everything I have that this blatant assault on the First Amendment, as it pertains to religion and the press, is the greatest threat to democracy in my lifetime of 60 years, and if the Evangelicals believe themselves to be Christ's conquering army at war with the rest of us, then the rest of us need to never, ever stop protesting. My own religion also believes in and follows Jesus. But despite decades in the choir, that absurd hymn was never once sung in my church. Jesus isn't about being warriors, but being peacemakers.
Trump and Bannon are hell-bent on discrediting the free press, labeling the mainstream media "the opposition party" and telling journalists and newscasters to shut their mouths. Any negative polls, unflattering news stories or attempts to highlight the pathological lying going on are vociferously called "fake news."
The morning of the inauguration, James Robison, the Christian television preacher, give a six minute homily extolling the wonders of Trump, followed by the hymn "Onward Christian Soldiers."
The lyrics begin:
Onward Christian soldiers
Marching as to war
With the cross of Jesus
Going on before.
To those who characterize the resistance as a bunch of whiny elite lefties who can't handle losing, I will fight back with everything I have that this blatant assault on the First Amendment, as it pertains to religion and the press, is the greatest threat to democracy in my lifetime of 60 years, and if the Evangelicals believe themselves to be Christ's conquering army at war with the rest of us, then the rest of us need to never, ever stop protesting. My own religion also believes in and follows Jesus. But despite decades in the choir, that absurd hymn was never once sung in my church. Jesus isn't about being warriors, but being peacemakers.
6
Although very critical of the religious right, I cannot agree with you re the hymn "Onward Christian Soldiers", which I interpret very differently from the likes of Richard Land, Franklin Graham, Jerry Falwell jr and others like them. It is about the spiritual battle between good and evil. Or, as scripture says "...we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against powers and principalities in high places." In my view, the battle is between the darker forces operating in the religious right and the forces of light and love as exemplified in the likes of Pope Francis, MLK, Billy Graham (unlike his son Franklin), Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, among multitudes of unsung, unknown saints of the Christian church universal who far better demonstrate the fruit of the Holy Spirit as manifested in Galatians 5.
Like Jesus, Trump believes in the laying on of hands.
6
The laying on is especially evangelistic when it's not consensual.
3
Hello, Christian here, I was once a a religious-conservative. I know that the
" religious-right" is determined, they know what they want and will anything including selling their souls to a misogynistic narcissist! Unlike, Liberals, who are wishy-washy, who did not turn out for the last election, I may add (!) these religious types do, turn out, they do vote each and every time!
Somehow, Liberals, moderates and independents need to realize that IF we want (I'm a Liberal now) a more Justice, equal, sane and equitable America, we must vote each and every time and .....do all we can to make sure we get the vote out!
November 6, 2018, is not that far away and we, must take back the House and Senate!
" religious-right" is determined, they know what they want and will anything including selling their souls to a misogynistic narcissist! Unlike, Liberals, who are wishy-washy, who did not turn out for the last election, I may add (!) these religious types do, turn out, they do vote each and every time!
Somehow, Liberals, moderates and independents need to realize that IF we want (I'm a Liberal now) a more Justice, equal, sane and equitable America, we must vote each and every time and .....do all we can to make sure we get the vote out!
November 6, 2018, is not that far away and we, must take back the House and Senate!
13
Don the Con, that says it all! Oh and televangelism and megachurches, the UN-righteous leads the way to salvation!
5
If Jesus wer to come back and attempt to preach in a Consdervative Christion church, he would probably be lynched.
9
This is completely predictable- when a young woman had a miscarriage in Mr. Pence's state of Indiana and it was found that she hadn't wanted to be pregnant and lost the fetus, she was jailed. Prison time for apparently a thought crime.
When that guy from the Family Research Council- Josh Duggar- was kicked out for molesting his own sisters, he was repackaged because even his crime and "confession" had retail value- evangelical bigwigs like Mike Huckabee had all kinds of verses for "forgiveness" on hand. Funny how that works.
Hypocritical double standards are par for the course with this crowd, but when it becomes 2 legal standards it cannot stand.
When that guy from the Family Research Council- Josh Duggar- was kicked out for molesting his own sisters, he was repackaged because even his crime and "confession" had retail value- evangelical bigwigs like Mike Huckabee had all kinds of verses for "forgiveness" on hand. Funny how that works.
Hypocritical double standards are par for the course with this crowd, but when it becomes 2 legal standards it cannot stand.
14
All this righteous outrage from people who said nothing when Obama brought a card-carrying Communist, Van Jones, into his White House. Well, elections have consequences, as You-know-who said, and this is one.
And as far as you First Amendment quoters are concerned, that Amendment says nothing about separating Church and State. It simply forbids our government from supporting any one religion over the others. Any religion is allowed to have its symbol on the Town Hall lawn as long as all the others can have their's, too.
You misquote the First Amendment as badly as you misquote the Second. Must be a progressive fault - or an ideological mirage.
And as far as you First Amendment quoters are concerned, that Amendment says nothing about separating Church and State. It simply forbids our government from supporting any one religion over the others. Any religion is allowed to have its symbol on the Town Hall lawn as long as all the others can have their's, too.
You misquote the First Amendment as badly as you misquote the Second. Must be a progressive fault - or an ideological mirage.
2
Diogenes!
So good to hear from you! And from Naples, Florida no less! The last time we heard from you was when you were homeless, dirty, eating in the marketplace, pleasuring yourself in public, and dressing down Alexander the Great for blocking your sunlight.
But you seem to have changed. A true cynic really wouldn't care about card-carrying communists or self-avowed Leninists. But your ideas about the separation of church and state and the second amendment are awesome. As you so eloquently state, it is all an "ideological mirage." Mandatory gun ownership and all religions being able to have their symbol "on the Town Hall lawn as long as all the others can have their's [sic], too" is an awesome idea.
Think about it: Everyone armed to the teeth, bickering about where their religious symbols should be displayed on the Town Hall Lawn. It would be amazing. The Jains, Sikhs, Catholics, Muslims, Buddhists, Protestants, Taoists, Hindus, Zoroastrians, Pagans, Baptists, Ba'hai's, Mormons, Shintos all jockeying for position on the lawn while armed. Amazing. But those pesky atheists and deists, we'll never know how to deal with them.
Your imagined world might be fun, or at least interesting, but it leaves little room for the cynicism you used to talk about so much...
So good to hear from you! And from Naples, Florida no less! The last time we heard from you was when you were homeless, dirty, eating in the marketplace, pleasuring yourself in public, and dressing down Alexander the Great for blocking your sunlight.
But you seem to have changed. A true cynic really wouldn't care about card-carrying communists or self-avowed Leninists. But your ideas about the separation of church and state and the second amendment are awesome. As you so eloquently state, it is all an "ideological mirage." Mandatory gun ownership and all religions being able to have their symbol "on the Town Hall lawn as long as all the others can have their's [sic], too" is an awesome idea.
Think about it: Everyone armed to the teeth, bickering about where their religious symbols should be displayed on the Town Hall Lawn. It would be amazing. The Jains, Sikhs, Catholics, Muslims, Buddhists, Protestants, Taoists, Hindus, Zoroastrians, Pagans, Baptists, Ba'hai's, Mormons, Shintos all jockeying for position on the lawn while armed. Amazing. But those pesky atheists and deists, we'll never know how to deal with them.
Your imagined world might be fun, or at least interesting, but it leaves little room for the cynicism you used to talk about so much...
3
What nonsense is this about Jones being a "card-carrying Communist"? Just because the man is a contributor to CNN, has a law degree from Yale and is an ardent environmentalist and human rights activist, he must be a commie?! Just out of curiosity, what words have you got for Donald Trump, who is busy embracing all things Vladimir Putin? Haven't you heard ~ Putin actually is a Russian communist, straight out of the dreaded KGB!
2
If you can read, read the Constitution. The words are all there.
1st Amendment: "Congress shall make no law concerning the establishment of religion."
2nd Amendment: "A well-regulated militia being useful for the defense of the state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed."
No mandatory anything.
And all the religions, so amusingly "jockeying for position on the lawn while armed."
Read the darn document before you start spreading around the amusing hatred you spread around so well.
And by the way, where did you say you lived?
1st Amendment: "Congress shall make no law concerning the establishment of religion."
2nd Amendment: "A well-regulated militia being useful for the defense of the state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed."
No mandatory anything.
And all the religions, so amusingly "jockeying for position on the lawn while armed."
Read the darn document before you start spreading around the amusing hatred you spread around so well.
And by the way, where did you say you lived?
What we know: Trump is addicted to cable news, not to know what's going on in the world, but to hear what people are saying about him. Trump has flip-flopped so many times it is almost impossible to determine what his current position is or what he plans for America. Trump lies about almost everything just to make himself look good. Trump surrounds himself with yes men, he doesn't like to be told he is wrong. Trump caters to the religious right for votes, not because he believes in what they are preaching - he certainly is not religious. The scary part is, it is not America that he cares about (he will leave that to his cabinet and advisors), it is the Trump name.
11
Christians, isn't your first commandment to have no false gods before you? You have now erected you golden idol and his name is trump, who incidentally has broken at at least three or more of your laws. You want a theocracy, go join ISIS.
22
Actually, he's orange.
4
The close link between the Trump/Pence Offal Office and the Religious Right is a threat to the religious liberty of all Americans, to our heritage of church-state separation, to women's rights of conscience and health, to the public schools that serve 90% of our kids, to the our planet threatened by climate change and the overpopulation that drives it. Sensible Americans across the religious spectrum must work together to contain and turn back this threat. -- Edd Doerr
20
Religious Conservatives are American Citizens just like every everyone else and have their right to speak and be heard . . . .unless of course, they're Republican. What? Are you suggesting they should banned because of their religion?
You can say anything you want, you just can't insert your beliefs into public policy and it's always good to remember that speech has consequences. For instance, you're free to spout bigotry and hate speech but don't be surprised if it comes back to bite you in the workplace etc.
1
It has always been a complete puzzle how these social conservatives with an authoritarian view of the world do not support government help for children. How do they not support taxes for social welfare programs and health care? Why are they so strong on law and order programs which jail victimless crime and drug addicts? I get that they do not like certain elements of school curriculum, but why do they seem so adamantly against evidence based studies of what works or doesn't work on guns? How have these social conservatives bound themselves up into the total Republican package, Medicare cuts and all?
69
I agree, I don't get it either...maybe they go by the saying, "God helps those who help themselves"?
2
No problem if it's only God that's involved. When they want tax breaks, their views imposed on the rest of us as law, poisoning of the environment, and education that supports faith over evidence and rational thought, well, that's a problem.
It is no puzzle to me. They are hypocrites through and through, waving their Bibles, which apparently they forgot to read, or if they read, were unable to understand, at the rest of us.
Whatever victories the "religious right" might amass, it will still portray itself as victims of religious bigotry.
The "Christians" will always be "persecuted." The lions will always be circling their tents.
Bet the rent!
The "Christians" will always be "persecuted." The lions will always be circling their tents.
Bet the rent!
2
They've gone from selling Prayer Cloths and bottles of Anointing Oils- directly to selling themselves.
4
No one has ever questioned the right to be a Christian in the US. It is the right NOT to be one that is in question.
12
If only these folks had worthy objectives.
4
I wish the news media would stop using the word "religious" with the word conservatives. There is really nothing Christian, or that follows the teachings of Jesus Christ, in either what they say or what they do. Moreover, any organization, regardless of its affiliation, that is willing to sell its soul to Donald J. Trump and his racist, bigoted, and morally bankrupt life and leadership doesn't qualify as being religious. There is absolutely nothing in the Bible, particularly the New Testament, that justifies them. Instead, they are simply a minority party, with a egomaniacal lust for power and domination, trying to remake a secular and diverse nation into their own misogynist concept. It's strange - being a nation founded on religious freedom - that they want to force their notions upon all of us. But nothing abou the so-called "religious" right makes sense - except through a Machiavellian lens.
5
Let me know when we begin public stonings of women for being sinners. Islam got nothing on the Judeo-Christian ethos.
5
Why didn't we see similar articles about the previous Administration and the easy access of Liberal Interest groups to the White House? Why is the NY Times so fixated on Religious Conservatives? And please don't offer the standard, knee jerk, anti-religion responses of the Left. Then, of course, there are the predictable liberals spouting to prove that they "are holier than thou" with or without religion. Liberalism is their "true religion" that rejects all other faiths. Narrow-mindedness has several versions.
1
I'll bite, name some of those groups and while you're at it tell us what they believe in that harms you or any other American.
Liberals aren't trying to deny people health care, a clean and safe environment, the right to make their own medical or matrimonial decisions etc.
Liberals aren't trying to deny people health care, a clean and safe environment, the right to make their own medical or matrimonial decisions etc.
1
All religious right groups - brainwashed bigoted misogynistic cults.
Fit right in with Bannon's no progress no equality.
To what century would they like to drag us back?
Fit right in with Bannon's no progress no equality.
To what century would they like to drag us back?
6
That these "Christians" find this ignorant, crass, cruel President and his coterie of liars and bigots to be the "answer to their prayer" is all the proof we ever needed that they have no idea what is the message of Christianity, and their only mission is the pursuit of wealth and power, particularly the power over women.
9
If you're going to champion 'stupidity', then you might as well go all out and bring in the religious crackpots.
7
True Christians live their faith in every country of the world, under every kind of government. True Christians live their faith in American prisons today, as many Christian martyrs did. In other words, to be a Christian, you don't have to transform a government to give official approval to or promote your faith or to write laws that conform to your religious beliefs. True faith is a gift from God, freely accepted by individuals. It cannot be mandated by a human government. The Christian Right is putting its faith in corrupt human government to bring about the "kingdom of God" on Earth. That's exactly opposite of what Jesus Christ sacrificed his life to teach us and set us spiritually, not politically, free. The Christian Right is corrupting the liberating message of Christ.
4
For all the whining these people do (the "War' on Christmas, people pick on their faith, the self-righteousness, etc.) you'd think they'd get a clue. The hypocrisy is deeper than a pile at Green Acres, and only makes the rest of us more disgusted.
4
These people who extol the false god Mr. Trump is, bear no resemblance to true Christians I personally know. I can just imagine the field day they would have had, had Mr. Trump been the Democratic nominee,. Hypocritical is not a strong enough word to describe them. Like the white nationalists, they are all about control and their own agenda.
Christ's teachings were about love and acceptance and uplifting the poor and sick. These people are about condemnation and punishment. Especially targeted are women who have the right to control their own bodies for the moment. It is this right that is first on their hit list to do away with. Then comes gay marriage. As soon as the new Justice is confirmed for the Supreme Court there will be challenges to Roe Vs Wade and gay marriage.
To paraphrase Mr. Gidley he stated Trump would in essence protect your right to be a Christian. Since when has Mr. Gidley or anyone else professing to be a Christian been prevented from exercising his right to worship as he pleases? Does he have the same concerns for those who are Muslims? Jews?
I don't care how you want to worship, however I do care that Mr. Gidley wants to impose his beliefs through laws on me and on this country. Further, Mr. Sessions needs to educate himself about the founding of this country and why the Founding Fathers who were mostly Deists, wisely insisted on separation of Church and State. Imposing religious beliefs on other is exactly what they were seeking to prevent.
Christ's teachings were about love and acceptance and uplifting the poor and sick. These people are about condemnation and punishment. Especially targeted are women who have the right to control their own bodies for the moment. It is this right that is first on their hit list to do away with. Then comes gay marriage. As soon as the new Justice is confirmed for the Supreme Court there will be challenges to Roe Vs Wade and gay marriage.
To paraphrase Mr. Gidley he stated Trump would in essence protect your right to be a Christian. Since when has Mr. Gidley or anyone else professing to be a Christian been prevented from exercising his right to worship as he pleases? Does he have the same concerns for those who are Muslims? Jews?
I don't care how you want to worship, however I do care that Mr. Gidley wants to impose his beliefs through laws on me and on this country. Further, Mr. Sessions needs to educate himself about the founding of this country and why the Founding Fathers who were mostly Deists, wisely insisted on separation of Church and State. Imposing religious beliefs on other is exactly what they were seeking to prevent.
6
Talk about a deal being transactional. The worldly Mr. Trump giving the spiritual Evangelicals what they want for their votes. The picture perfectly captures the relationship. A group of Evangelicals with their eyes and hands cast above to the Lord while Trump cynically surveys the flock and closes the deal.
7
Pure opportunism on the part of both. Cynicism doesn't even begin to cover it.
13
The religious right, most of whom are neither, have shown their core of hypocrisy in neon hues by latching onto a guy that they cannot prove has ever attended church, much less hews to their superstitious belief structure. They will use whomever they need to impose their views on others.
9
Any casual reader of the New Testament cannot fail to notice that Jesus called for radical identification with the dispossessed and barely mentioned all of these other so-called Christian obsessions. Their churches are emptying because this shameless and reflexive appeal to power generates such an overwhelming stench of hypocrisy that it cannot be covered up.
16
I wish their "churches" were emptying. But the mega- so-called churches seem to still be holding sway. Xianity has had many incarnations in its 2,000 swath through western history. There's the conflicting things Jesus said, and the bizarrely frightening sayings in the NT books that his supposed apostles wrote. Seeing Xianity as a sweet religion misinterpreted by goons is naive. It had paranoid cruel issues from the get-go.
1
Before he ran for President, Donald Trump frequently went on the Howard Stern Show to talk about hot chics, porn, pro choice positions, and generally espoused socially conservative views.....And as much as i despise Trump, I don't think he is a social conservative - he's just playing one in the WH.....
The problem, and Reagan did this to, was after both were elected, they are letting the religious right run the show....That is why Reagan had the Meese Commission, which was perhaps the greatest tax payer waste of money in US history....The Meese Commission issued a 2,000 page report studying the affects of adult films....And that is why Trump is now catering to these intolerant clowns....
The problem, and Reagan did this to, was after both were elected, they are letting the religious right run the show....That is why Reagan had the Meese Commission, which was perhaps the greatest tax payer waste of money in US history....The Meese Commission issued a 2,000 page report studying the affects of adult films....And that is why Trump is now catering to these intolerant clowns....
8
I don't know if it's ok to recommend a book in these comments, but if it is, I recently read American Fascists: The Christian Right and the War on America by Chris Hedges and found it very helpful to understand Trump's support among Dominion Christians.
15
During the primary campaign, Trumps said that in order to defeat terrorism we would have to kill the families of suspected terrorists we are unable to capture.
Now there is a sentiment that every christian conservative and every republican patriot can support. Make America Great Again. USA! USA! USA!
Now there is a sentiment that every christian conservative and every republican patriot can support. Make America Great Again. USA! USA! USA!
6
Horrifying! This story is simply horrifying!
A Faustian pact, Mr. Robison--Dr. Dobson! You listening? A Faustian pact! All for a whiff of power--a seat at the councils of the great--the ear of a United States president.
Full disclosure! I am myself an "evangelical Christian." I lived eight years under Mr. Clinton, eight years under Mr. Obama. "My right to be an exemplary Christian--a walking, breathing saint"? Sixteen years of these men never laid a finger on my right to be a Christian saint. I fall--oh! so far short of that shining ideal--but that's my fault, not theirs.
The Kingdom of Christ is not enacted by legislation, gentlemen. An act of Congress cannot create a single believer, a single Christian. Only the Holy Spirit . . . . but here I'm getting theological. Mr. Donald Trump--and, gentlemen! this man's history is a matter of public record--Mr. Donald Trump is not likely to increase that Kingdom by a single soul.
Gentlemen, let me speak some truth. By such language as I read here, you have besmirched the once-glorious name "evangelical." I cannot but think (a dreadful charge!) you have besmirched the name of Christ. God help the cause of Christianity in this country. God help us all. Amen!
A Faustian pact, Mr. Robison--Dr. Dobson! You listening? A Faustian pact! All for a whiff of power--a seat at the councils of the great--the ear of a United States president.
Full disclosure! I am myself an "evangelical Christian." I lived eight years under Mr. Clinton, eight years under Mr. Obama. "My right to be an exemplary Christian--a walking, breathing saint"? Sixteen years of these men never laid a finger on my right to be a Christian saint. I fall--oh! so far short of that shining ideal--but that's my fault, not theirs.
The Kingdom of Christ is not enacted by legislation, gentlemen. An act of Congress cannot create a single believer, a single Christian. Only the Holy Spirit . . . . but here I'm getting theological. Mr. Donald Trump--and, gentlemen! this man's history is a matter of public record--Mr. Donald Trump is not likely to increase that Kingdom by a single soul.
Gentlemen, let me speak some truth. By such language as I read here, you have besmirched the once-glorious name "evangelical." I cannot but think (a dreadful charge!) you have besmirched the name of Christ. God help the cause of Christianity in this country. God help us all. Amen!
18
Susan, the "evangelical" leaders who have backed Trump have besmirched devout Christians for at least a generation.
The claim that Trump, though clearly an immoral, cruel man, would be the vessel for God's works is absurd, from anyone who has the least knowledge of the bible.
God's works are always done through the righteous. Miracles are done by saints and Jesus. Read the selection of Gideon's army; God in the old-testament is very picky about through whom his miracles will occur.
Trump has set back every genuine conservative or religious person, already done enormous damage and seems certain to do much worse.
2 Timothy 3:13-17
The claim that Trump, though clearly an immoral, cruel man, would be the vessel for God's works is absurd, from anyone who has the least knowledge of the bible.
God's works are always done through the righteous. Miracles are done by saints and Jesus. Read the selection of Gideon's army; God in the old-testament is very picky about through whom his miracles will occur.
Trump has set back every genuine conservative or religious person, already done enormous damage and seems certain to do much worse.
2 Timothy 3:13-17
1
Yes, we're busy making America hate again. Hate you. Hate me. Hate them. Hate to the Left, Hate to the Right, stand up, sit down, fight, fight, fight.
Right now, I hate it -- whatever "it" happens to be at the moment. How illuminating it is to see hate itself radiating from Mr. Great Hate himself...THERE he is: surrounded by raised palms. I bet he thinks they're praising HIM.
Boy, has the GOP got America ready to abdicate its moral authority, too! I can't wait to see how long it takes America The Great to find itself confronting yet another Watergate.
Right now, I hate it -- whatever "it" happens to be at the moment. How illuminating it is to see hate itself radiating from Mr. Great Hate himself...THERE he is: surrounded by raised palms. I bet he thinks they're praising HIM.
Boy, has the GOP got America ready to abdicate its moral authority, too! I can't wait to see how long it takes America The Great to find itself confronting yet another Watergate.
9
Did anybody see that photo post that was making the rounds on social media on inauguration day that showed a sliver of sunshine as Trump was taking his oath of office? The Christian Right decided it was in the shape of a cross and that it was a "sign from God" that Trump was meant to "lead us" into righteousness or something like that. You should have seen the posts - they were scary and outrageous. People actually writing that "this proves America is a Christian nation". I can hardly believe that in the 21st century people think like that. If they believe this nonsense, no wonder they believe fake news and disavow science. And I don't think there's much we can do about it, alas...
22
I consider myself an Evangelical and what Mr Trump wants is NOT what I want. It disgusts me to see leaders in cultural Christianity (most of whom I also disagree with about social policies) apparently swallowing Mr Trump's expert marketing hook, line, and sinker. As this article implicitly points out, a marketing machine is about all he is. These leaders of the so-called "religious right" will find themselves left at the curb very rapidly if they cease to be expedient to Mr Trump. Perhaps it's just as well - Christians in America deserve much better cultural and political leaders anyway, leaders who are not willing to abandon Jesus' ethics in order to gain political clout and who remember that Jesus always spoke with love, even when he was calling those with broken lives to repent.
7
Isn't it ironic that these christians value most in Trump what they practice the least: tolerance. Give us the freedom to become a state religion so we can shove our views down your throat.
5
Boy, talk about making a deal with the devil. He doesnt work for free People.
"He doesnt pretend to be a Bible-banging evangelical" says the lady from Concerned Women for America about Trump, the guy who bragged about women being sexual fodder for guys like him because he is "a celebrity".
Meanwhile, back at Focus on the Family a young woman writer lost her job for even writing a mild column/blog article about objecting to this "presidential" aberration from Christian behavior. The rot at the top is making criticism of Trump a No-No just for the record.
Just say it- these people have nothing to do with the teachings or behavior of Christ. They are just exactly like the religious councils of male fundamentalist leaders of other fundamentalist religions who justify child molestation, picking on poor people women and the politically vulnerable because they justify it.
Trump knows the territory of the Con like the air he breathes, and the people like Dobson, Perkins, et al have made a calculation for access to Power, nothing more.
Ms Nance says "We're happy to be wrong". Wow. Good to know what we're dealing with. Great reporting.
"He doesnt pretend to be a Bible-banging evangelical" says the lady from Concerned Women for America about Trump, the guy who bragged about women being sexual fodder for guys like him because he is "a celebrity".
Meanwhile, back at Focus on the Family a young woman writer lost her job for even writing a mild column/blog article about objecting to this "presidential" aberration from Christian behavior. The rot at the top is making criticism of Trump a No-No just for the record.
Just say it- these people have nothing to do with the teachings or behavior of Christ. They are just exactly like the religious councils of male fundamentalist leaders of other fundamentalist religions who justify child molestation, picking on poor people women and the politically vulnerable because they justify it.
Trump knows the territory of the Con like the air he breathes, and the people like Dobson, Perkins, et al have made a calculation for access to Power, nothing more.
Ms Nance says "We're happy to be wrong". Wow. Good to know what we're dealing with. Great reporting.
8
One can only imagine what Jesus would say or do to Donald, were Jesus to walk today.
1
Sad that in the 21st century so many sad, gullible, low-info people are still falling for childish fairy tales and nonsensical fantasies about invisible authority figures in the sky.
Even sadder that they feel the right and the need to force others of us to live by what they think their imaginary sky daddies want. Why is science, rationality and common sense losing out to superstition and magical thinking?
Most of these people couldn't hold a three-minute conversation about theology, comparative religion or the humanities if their very lives depended on it. They are bamboozled (usually by people who have their hand or their collection plates out seeking dollars) and gulled into following nasty-minded, convoluted mumbo jumbo out of fear, to fill the void in their empty lives and due to a complete absence of intellectual ability. And they are the ones reproducing. We're pretty doomed and we're going to take down many superior species with us.
Even sadder that they feel the right and the need to force others of us to live by what they think their imaginary sky daddies want. Why is science, rationality and common sense losing out to superstition and magical thinking?
Most of these people couldn't hold a three-minute conversation about theology, comparative religion or the humanities if their very lives depended on it. They are bamboozled (usually by people who have their hand or their collection plates out seeking dollars) and gulled into following nasty-minded, convoluted mumbo jumbo out of fear, to fill the void in their empty lives and due to a complete absence of intellectual ability. And they are the ones reproducing. We're pretty doomed and we're going to take down many superior species with us.
10
America has more to fear from the religious right than we do from legions of Islamic terrorists. Relatively small in number but deeply embedded in our society, they are like ravenous termites gnawing away at the foundation of our nation, chewing civil liberty, personal freedom and intellectual rigor to dust.
Terrified of real science, they have demanded that a fantastical book of whimsy written by goat herders thousands of years ago - a book that describes a menstruating woman as "unclean" and the touching of pig skin an "abomination" - be treated as scientific fact. Because they cannot force billions of years of historical record to comport to their mythical 6000 year narrative, they have even built an amusement park that depicts Jesus happily playing with his pet velociraptor! I suppose we could call it "Follyland."
All of this might seem amusing and quaint if it were not so dangerous. Gays are to be loathed, maligned and vilified, science denied and intellectual inquiry quashed to satisfy a dogma than insists that some Dude in the Sky stopped the sun because he didn't like the way a battle was going, And you thought the legend of Thor was far-fetched!
America can survive the terrors of Radical Islam I have no doubt. Surviving
the relentless agenda of the Religious Right is less certain.
Terrified of real science, they have demanded that a fantastical book of whimsy written by goat herders thousands of years ago - a book that describes a menstruating woman as "unclean" and the touching of pig skin an "abomination" - be treated as scientific fact. Because they cannot force billions of years of historical record to comport to their mythical 6000 year narrative, they have even built an amusement park that depicts Jesus happily playing with his pet velociraptor! I suppose we could call it "Follyland."
All of this might seem amusing and quaint if it were not so dangerous. Gays are to be loathed, maligned and vilified, science denied and intellectual inquiry quashed to satisfy a dogma than insists that some Dude in the Sky stopped the sun because he didn't like the way a battle was going, And you thought the legend of Thor was far-fetched!
America can survive the terrors of Radical Islam I have no doubt. Surviving
the relentless agenda of the Religious Right is less certain.
18
You got it 100% correct. These hateful monsters will destroy as many as they can in pursuit of dominion over everything and everyone that they want.
Religion is codified psychopathy.
Religion is codified psychopathy.
3
I agree, Tracy. I've always believed that religion is the only socially accepted form of insanity.
2
I think in the background is the idea of the Rapture; Christ's return, End Days.
It creates a win-win situation if Chairman Trump allows others to move us towards a male-dominated "Christian Democracy" to balance out the Islamic Caliphate, removing what now passes for our secular form of governing with its clear separation of church and state. If Trump fails as he flails about instead of leading, and what comes to pass eventually is a Nuclear Armageddon or a total collapse of the world's ecosystem with global warming, well not to worry, it is in God's Hands. It was predicted in the Bible.
The Rapture concept allows the Christian Right to push on and interpret the consequences of any change (for the worse) as part of God's Plan because after all, "they" are doing God's will. For a better understanding of the Evangelical movement you might want to Google the word Rapture. I think many commenting on this branch of Christianity have not researched it or understood it.
I have had a few conversations about Politics and this unholy new President with Evangelicals and I have found each conversation singularly unnerving.
It creates a win-win situation if Chairman Trump allows others to move us towards a male-dominated "Christian Democracy" to balance out the Islamic Caliphate, removing what now passes for our secular form of governing with its clear separation of church and state. If Trump fails as he flails about instead of leading, and what comes to pass eventually is a Nuclear Armageddon or a total collapse of the world's ecosystem with global warming, well not to worry, it is in God's Hands. It was predicted in the Bible.
The Rapture concept allows the Christian Right to push on and interpret the consequences of any change (for the worse) as part of God's Plan because after all, "they" are doing God's will. For a better understanding of the Evangelical movement you might want to Google the word Rapture. I think many commenting on this branch of Christianity have not researched it or understood it.
I have had a few conversations about Politics and this unholy new President with Evangelicals and I have found each conversation singularly unnerving.
11
The big box churches have succeeded only in tarnishing their "brand" forever by getting mixed up with this man. Obeying a cruel and violent man who likes to grab women (or girls) when he feels like it is a huge mistake.
The impetus for this must have come from the preachers, who are like Trump in many ways- con men with all kinds of skeletons. Problem is, Jesus is supposed to be somewhere in this mix. Were he to appear today, he would listen to this crowd, hold his nose, and run the other way.
The impetus for this must have come from the preachers, who are like Trump in many ways- con men with all kinds of skeletons. Problem is, Jesus is supposed to be somewhere in this mix. Were he to appear today, he would listen to this crowd, hold his nose, and run the other way.
26
Mike Roddy--I'm afraid their Christian "brand," but really their horrifying REPUTATIONS, have been firmly established for decades, long before our moron-in-chief ever came to the White House. They are a nasty bunch, who intimidate and blackmail their members, squeeze them for money, sponsor door-to-door recruitment, and extremely alarming radio and TV programs that undermine the trust and security of our country, and now find themselves in an historical position to invade our laws, schools, and secular social framework. Even if you are a religion adherent, who doesn't think you are one of these, you should be very afraid of this turn of events.
3
I am amazed to see my old school chums now evangelical Christian Facebook friends from my home state of South Carolina post glowing religious based memes of love and family alongside angry fake news denunciations of the Clintons and Obama as immoral criminals "who should be in jail." Now Federal judges and Nordstrom have been focused in their crosshairs. Even the slightest questioning of Trump is met with instant mob derision and anger.
32
Fewer and fewer Americans are participating in organized religions. Given Trump's low and declining popularity, the Evangelicals desperate willingness to "do business with the devil" is very likely to backfire. Their subterfuge may get them a Supreme Court judge, but in the long term this association will backfire and cause them a severe loss of credibility.
14
As a Jewish American it makes me furious that somehow these people think they can legislate their religion on everyone else .
What do they think SEPARATION of church and state mean ?
This whole narrative of the government preventing their religious rights is ridiculous . They can practice their faith as they choose . But don't tell me that I can't do what I want because YOU think it's wrong . That's stepping on MY rights as an American .
They're all phonies .
What do they think SEPARATION of church and state mean ?
This whole narrative of the government preventing their religious rights is ridiculous . They can practice their faith as they choose . But don't tell me that I can't do what I want because YOU think it's wrong . That's stepping on MY rights as an American .
They're all phonies .
33
Their interpretation of separation of church and state is that Congress can't pass a law against handing out New Testaments in public schools.
The Religious Right has a laser-like focus on stopping abortion and gay marriage. They have dedicated themselves to a fight-to-the death for those two issues, and no others. (I should mention that they also want to establish full discrimination against gay persons.)
They do not care about feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, sheltering the homeless, welcoming the stranger, nor kindness and brotherly love as a guiding principle for life. They express no compassion for the less fortunate.
Now that they have such access to the White House, it is unfortunate that they are not advocating for what Christ preached about.
They do not care about feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, sheltering the homeless, welcoming the stranger, nor kindness and brotherly love as a guiding principle for life. They express no compassion for the less fortunate.
Now that they have such access to the White House, it is unfortunate that they are not advocating for what Christ preached about.
26
How bad is religion. It could destroy this country. And you can't argue with it. People of faith believe whatever nonsense they're told and it overrides everything else.
17
Religion isn't bad its the hypocrits that clothe their hate n religion that are bad.
1
I would like to introduce a bill in Congress that mandates ALL presidential candidates be atheists. To whom can I speak about this urgent issue? Anyone?
16
When the "P" in POTUS doesn't in Trump's case stant for "President", the Christian Storefront Evangelical Right headed up by VP Pence have proven themselves little more than laughable hypocrites.
10
Delusion: an idiosyncratic belief or impression that is firmly maintained despite being contradicted by what is generally accepted as reality or rational argument, typically a symptom of mental disorder.
So the people now running the show believe that a supernatural entity in the sky dictated a special book that tells them what He wants them to do. And gives them a mission to tell the rest of us what to do also. Including harming anyone who doesn't want to go along with their special delusion.
That's why wise people separate the state from the religious. The American Taliban are just as ignorant and dangerous as the Afghani Taliban.
So the people now running the show believe that a supernatural entity in the sky dictated a special book that tells them what He wants them to do. And gives them a mission to tell the rest of us what to do also. Including harming anyone who doesn't want to go along with their special delusion.
That's why wise people separate the state from the religious. The American Taliban are just as ignorant and dangerous as the Afghani Taliban.
18
As one who has never given credence to religious beliefs, I am not well schooled to distinguish various religions and sects. Still. it seems to me that on most social issues, the religious right, the Catholics, and the Muslims agree. And it appears that the liberal view is that religious people are sympathetic as long as they are victims. But give them any power and they become evil.
Yet liberals are often opposed to more than the imposition of religious beliefs upon the secular. On social issues -- like the treatment of women -- they oppose even religious self-regulation. Liberals clearly have an interest in being free of religious influence. Whether they have an interest in religious self-regulation seems dubious to me.
Yet liberals are often opposed to more than the imposition of religious beliefs upon the secular. On social issues -- like the treatment of women -- they oppose even religious self-regulation. Liberals clearly have an interest in being free of religious influence. Whether they have an interest in religious self-regulation seems dubious to me.
1
I'm sorry but what do you mean by religious self regulation? I don't know of any liberal who has told a woman what she can and can't believe.
1
Oh, DR, it's totally clear. He's saying women must be regulated by religion. Self-inflicted. Or, maybe...
It's all about power and greed for this long list of moral hypocrites, religion has absolutely nothing to do with it.
50
I for one think the Religious Right needs to read this:
"Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking."
Real Christians don't focus on seeking out temporal power, nor in signaling to society how Christian they are. They pray, they quietly engage in acts of charity, they seek the perfection of their souls and the best for those around them.
"Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking."
Real Christians don't focus on seeking out temporal power, nor in signaling to society how Christian they are. They pray, they quietly engage in acts of charity, they seek the perfection of their souls and the best for those around them.
19
But these are not real christians. They are the new pharisees.
2
Do remember that old line: "You don't need to tell me you are a Christian; let me figure it out for myself."
In the case of Trump and his supporters ... sure didn't take long.
In the case of Trump and his supporters ... sure didn't take long.
3
This terrifies more than anything -- Mr. Trump is a puppet for these people too. If he ever read the Constitution (which I doubt) he would know the separation of Church and State and Freedom of "all" Religions are in the First Amendment, along with freedom of the press -- very important points, so important that the Founders put them in the First Amendment. I would remind these people that once the First Amendment goes away, so do the rest, including their precious freedom to bear arms, which is in the 2nd Amendment. I have news for no Authoritarian government wants you having guns. Wake up...before you destroy your country.
17
For " religious conservative". Your TRUE colors are showing. Shameless, but that word obviously has no meaning to you all. Hopefully, your God is watching.
17
Dabble in politics??? Fine, but it's way past time to start paying taxes. I claim tax- free status, the church of the spotted dogs. More useful than most.
15
The United States of America also has the right to Freedom FROM Religion. Get these nasty extremists OUT of the White House, and our government! This is WHY we are seeing White Supremacy activity, and extreme racism and bigotry, from this administration. These horrors are closely associated to evangelical Christianity, if not Christianity, in general. There should never be any tolerance for extreme religion, no matter what brand it is.
17
I have never been interested in what my neighbor does, what he believes, or how he spends his money, as long as he didn’t impose those beliefs upon me. As long as my government stays out of my bedroom and doctor’s office, doesn’t make me pray at school and makes the world a better place for everyone, I will gladly pay my taxes to support education, infrastructure, the environment, and keep elections free. All that is over.
In this new Red-World, there will no separation of church and government. Instead, religious beliefs will be slowly chiseled into new statutes and do not be surprised to proposed constitution changes (attacks).
Churches and conservative Christian faiths have been painted as attacked and now they appear righteous as they finally have the power to “right” things. If you believe that Citizens United was a blow to campaign finance law, just wait until the 501(c)(3)s are allowed to engage in political activity; this billion dollar space will eliminate free elections for generations.
The conservative Christian society will easily be shaped into one where opposing opinions will be silenced by threats and by bully-tweets, the new weapon. Neighbors will no longer feel free to express criticism about right-wing party actions or establishments, fearing some retribution.
To see the fabric of a free society that enables diversity torn and shift from freedom to fear right before my eyes is alarming. To feel helpless to do much about it is demoralizing.
In this new Red-World, there will no separation of church and government. Instead, religious beliefs will be slowly chiseled into new statutes and do not be surprised to proposed constitution changes (attacks).
Churches and conservative Christian faiths have been painted as attacked and now they appear righteous as they finally have the power to “right” things. If you believe that Citizens United was a blow to campaign finance law, just wait until the 501(c)(3)s are allowed to engage in political activity; this billion dollar space will eliminate free elections for generations.
The conservative Christian society will easily be shaped into one where opposing opinions will be silenced by threats and by bully-tweets, the new weapon. Neighbors will no longer feel free to express criticism about right-wing party actions or establishments, fearing some retribution.
To see the fabric of a free society that enables diversity torn and shift from freedom to fear right before my eyes is alarming. To feel helpless to do much about it is demoralizing.
18
Of the 325 million people in the U.S., how many of them are "Religious Conservatives"? It can't be a majority. So how and why do they wield such a powerful hand? Separation of church and state, indeed.
17
They are not the majority, but they band together and the consistently vote. Unlike the wish-washy Liberals, whose will vote only if their favorite candidate I.e., Bernie is on the ballot! Imagine, if Liberals were as determined as the so-called-religious-right?!
2
As the saying goes: "The Christian Right is neither."
Evil (livE backwards) now has the upper hand in D.C. Lucky us, eh?
Evil (livE backwards) now has the upper hand in D.C. Lucky us, eh?
20
Pharisees? Certainly in their decision to treat Christianity as a kingdom of this earth and to accept the President's authoritarian pretensions and alternative facts in pursuit of their golds.
15
Despite the circus atmospheres in the White House, the NSC, the Cabinet nominations, and Congress - this story of the Christian Right is the one that will emerge as the gamechanger for the Trump Presidency. The slow and steady evangelical influence on national and local policy.
2
Now that they've hitched their wagon to Trump, can we finally agree that Christianity is nothing more than a lobbying/business consortium? Let's take away their tax-free status and move on with eyes open.
65
Sorry. The Constitution doesn't say "Only Liberals need apply."
No one said they shouldn't "apply", Dlud. But they should NOT do it as tax-exempt. Meaning they are operating on my dime - which pays for their police protection, their fire protection, their myriad other civic services, oh, and the courts they love to use to wield their religion on others. All paid for by others. It must be stopped. If they want to be political, fine, but they gotta pay their own way. It seems you'd be all for this, as conservatives hate "takers" so much.
1
Religious conservatives? You mean fake Christians. Greed, pride, wrath, sloth, gluttony, lust, envy. Jesus died for these sins.
These people are not conservative, nor are they religious. They are rich, greedy, careless power mongers.
Pretty sure it is a whole mix of con people and conned people, sociopaths, one psychopath at least, and a buncha lackeys.
This photo is a great depiction, on a symbolic level, of what is going on.
These people are not conservative, nor are they religious. They are rich, greedy, careless power mongers.
Pretty sure it is a whole mix of con people and conned people, sociopaths, one psychopath at least, and a buncha lackeys.
This photo is a great depiction, on a symbolic level, of what is going on.
73
I find this horrifying.
When you say "deeply religious" people who hold "conservative views" this is a very nice way to dress up the fact that they are unrepentant bigots- deeply homophobic people who are salivating at the prospect of getting payback against the advancements of LGBT equality.
When I read names like James Dobson or Tony Perkins, it makes my blood run cold. These men have dedicated their lives to excoriating and trampling upon the LGBT community, spreading lies and hatred under the guise of "religious freedom".
I grew up in Colorado, and I know very well the kind of "values" Focus on the Family stands for- homophobia, cruelty, and repression. Ditto for the Family Research Council.
There is already too much religious interference in our government by evangelical Christians. They are hell-bent upon erasing all equality and progress for women, ethnic minorities, and LGBT Americans. That must not be allowed to happen. Congressional Democrats must be a strong check against the coming overreach of the Trump/Pence administration, and they must reject Gorsuch from the Supreme Court. We citizens must also be strong, vigilant, and loud, and must turn out to vote in the mid-terms.
I have been fighting most of my life for equality under the law and I will not be giving that up.
When you say "deeply religious" people who hold "conservative views" this is a very nice way to dress up the fact that they are unrepentant bigots- deeply homophobic people who are salivating at the prospect of getting payback against the advancements of LGBT equality.
When I read names like James Dobson or Tony Perkins, it makes my blood run cold. These men have dedicated their lives to excoriating and trampling upon the LGBT community, spreading lies and hatred under the guise of "religious freedom".
I grew up in Colorado, and I know very well the kind of "values" Focus on the Family stands for- homophobia, cruelty, and repression. Ditto for the Family Research Council.
There is already too much religious interference in our government by evangelical Christians. They are hell-bent upon erasing all equality and progress for women, ethnic minorities, and LGBT Americans. That must not be allowed to happen. Congressional Democrats must be a strong check against the coming overreach of the Trump/Pence administration, and they must reject Gorsuch from the Supreme Court. We citizens must also be strong, vigilant, and loud, and must turn out to vote in the mid-terms.
I have been fighting most of my life for equality under the law and I will not be giving that up.
110
"When you say "deeply religious" people who hold "conservative views" this is a very nice way to dress up the fact that they are unrepentant bigots-" Wow, aren't these liberals open and accepting people. Voila.
This is exactly right. James Dobson brought himself and so many people from his outfit in California in the 90s they had their own zip code here. He proceeded to try to change the Colorado Constitution to discriminate against gay people. He divided people, stirred up hate, and won. Until the Supreme Court threw out his hateful Amendment 2. His organization has repackaged itself but from the looks of this article his old lust for power didnt stay in the closet for very long.
4
Dlud - Liberals aren't accepting of bigotry, greed, dishonesty and cruelty. Why are you?
I have never seen the Times use the phrase “the religious Left” with regard to influence over Presidents Clinton or Obama, just as I have seldom if ever seen leaders like Fidel Castro described as “far Left.” Marine Le Pen is “far right” according to the Times, but when Castro died there was no description of him as “far Left."
It’s as though alarm bells are supposed to ring only over threats from one religious or political extreme, and not from the other end of the spectrum.
It’s as though alarm bells are supposed to ring only over threats from one religious or political extreme, and not from the other end of the spectrum.
3
That's because everybody knows that the true members of the "Left" are so enlightened and well educated that there isn't any space left upstairs for any thoughts and feelings as primitive as religion. The New York Times Sunday crossword puzzle is the closest thing we get to religion on the weekend.
3
That's because the "religious left" has never sought to shove its brand of religion down YOUR throat! Or didn't that occur to you?
2
You're a voice in the wilderness, wherein NYT will never hear you. Though being you're a 'supportive of humanity' in the Pac NW, you're probably accustomed to not being heard. Is the lack of sunshine out there a reason the locals don't see God?
Just when you think the LGBT equality movement has proven a seemingly unstoppable winning streak. Just when you think Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt landed a devastating setback to the anti reproductive health movement. Thanks to an accident of electoral college math, and a unique constellation of political crises affecting the Democratic nominee, these victories are now as precarious as ever.
The good news is that Donald is achieving something that has long eluded the befuddled Democrats. He's inspired a grassroots energy among the secular left, that hasn't been seen in decades. Theocracy is far from a fait accompli.
The good news is that Donald is achieving something that has long eluded the befuddled Democrats. He's inspired a grassroots energy among the secular left, that hasn't been seen in decades. Theocracy is far from a fait accompli.
27
A healthy democracy is a large umbrella that covers a range of beliefs with respect for all. Liberals are really thin on respect these days and childish.
I think, Dlud, you confuse "respect" as in "my beliefs trump yours". Democrats and progressives have NEVER proposed limiting the rights of anyone, unless you have evidence of it, which you don't. Whereas Republicans are busy trying to limit the rights of others or take them away altogether. In the name of religion, of course.
2
True Christianity is love in action. There is no better way to manifest love for God than to show unselfish love for our fellow man
And yet, we are beset by false Christians - led by a grinning simpleton. Where, exactly is the compassion that Jesus taught in the pronouncements of those on the right? Where is their love of their fellow man? When do they refrain from judging others?
And yet, we are beset by false Christians - led by a grinning simpleton. Where, exactly is the compassion that Jesus taught in the pronouncements of those on the right? Where is their love of their fellow man? When do they refrain from judging others?
78
What we're REALLY beset by are those who think they are either holier than thou and can pronounce judgements upon the Left from the Right and then go out and vote for Trump.
I thought Jesus taught humility and love for our fellow human beings. You know who Matthew? Try this on for size, Trump the know-it-all:
"Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you."
Forgive? He thinks getting even is holier than holy!
I'll believe the Christian Right is alright when it stops preaching just how right it is, baby.
I thought Jesus taught humility and love for our fellow human beings. You know who Matthew? Try this on for size, Trump the know-it-all:
"Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you."
Forgive? He thinks getting even is holier than holy!
I'll believe the Christian Right is alright when it stops preaching just how right it is, baby.
1
But you've already judged them as false Christians and grinning simpletons?
P Palmer: As Pope Francis (and Jesus) would say, "Who am I to judge?"
Nothing soothes the souls of the radical religious right like Christian Shariah Law.
America was formed by people escaping religious persecution in Europe.
And the persecution begins anew in America, with women being persecuted for renegade male sperm....with people wanting healthcare being prosecuted by the Jihadi Jesus community....with homosexuals being persecuted by Republican ayatollahs hellbent on medieval biblical spite....with science being persecuted by Bible Study...and with good government being annihilated by our Lady of Hypocrisy.
"All religion, my friend, is simply evolved out of fraud, fear, greed, imagination, and poetry." - Edgar Allan Poe
The Trump-GOP Prosperity Gospel is a serious Christitutional and consumer fraud crisis.
America was formed by people escaping religious persecution in Europe.
And the persecution begins anew in America, with women being persecuted for renegade male sperm....with people wanting healthcare being prosecuted by the Jihadi Jesus community....with homosexuals being persecuted by Republican ayatollahs hellbent on medieval biblical spite....with science being persecuted by Bible Study...and with good government being annihilated by our Lady of Hypocrisy.
"All religion, my friend, is simply evolved out of fraud, fear, greed, imagination, and poetry." - Edgar Allan Poe
The Trump-GOP Prosperity Gospel is a serious Christitutional and consumer fraud crisis.
130
Soc, you are a wise man, but the Puritans fled England because they felt persecuted, then came to North America and proceeded to persecute anyone who veered from their orthodoxy, including the native Americans. They banished anyone who thought differently, including John Williams who believed in separation of church and state and Anne Hutchinson, who was banished for having meetings in her home, which criticized the sermons of Minister John Cotton.
This country was founded on intolerance - let's not even bring up slavery. That we finally transcended treating humans as chattel (and religious bigotry) was due to the Founding Fathers, who were the brightest men (yes, men) of the Age of Enlightenment; however, as we are seeing what is happening today, that enlightenment is quickly fading and intolerance is rearing its ugly head from America's collective Id.
Soc, I treasure your responses, but America's underbelly is ugly. Latent religious intolerance, slavery, greed and the robber barons seem to be creating a seismic occurrence today. That we came this far is amazing; however, why is enlightenment anathema suddenly?
This country was founded on intolerance - let's not even bring up slavery. That we finally transcended treating humans as chattel (and religious bigotry) was due to the Founding Fathers, who were the brightest men (yes, men) of the Age of Enlightenment; however, as we are seeing what is happening today, that enlightenment is quickly fading and intolerance is rearing its ugly head from America's collective Id.
Soc, I treasure your responses, but America's underbelly is ugly. Latent religious intolerance, slavery, greed and the robber barons seem to be creating a seismic occurrence today. That we came this far is amazing; however, why is enlightenment anathema suddenly?
These people have nothing whatsoever to do with the teachings of Jesus.
They are against helping the poor and the sick, which Jesus preached, all about getting as rich as possible, which Jesus pointed out made it more difficult to reach heaven than passing through the eye of a needle, and totally committed to deprive women of health and life saving abortions, a subject on which Jesus said precisely zero.
They are against helping the poor and the sick, which Jesus preached, all about getting as rich as possible, which Jesus pointed out made it more difficult to reach heaven than passing through the eye of a needle, and totally committed to deprive women of health and life saving abortions, a subject on which Jesus said precisely zero.
The Radical Religious Right might think they have "access" but the 4,956,422 women, and some enlightened men, who Marched on Washington and 673 other locations around the world the day after the inaugural hostile takeover do not agree. Nor do the hundreds of millions of people across America and around the world who deplore the financial/religions hostile takeover of America.
The real story is that the vast majority of Americans believe in Separation of Church and State as demanded in OUR U.S. Constitution. Separation of Church and State protects a person's right to choose as they wish in their home and place of worship without government interference AND protects everyone else from having any religious belief pushed on them by laws passed by radial religionists.
The Con Don and his Top 1% Global Financial Elite Robber Baron/ Radical Religion Good Old Boys Party must have religion to ramp up chaos and hate between citizens. It's their MO - cause chaos among the peons over the unprovable, abstract concept called religion - while they rob everyone else blind and live their garish, greedy lives.
It's a tale as old as recorded time and it's time for America to move into the 21st century and put organized religion back where it belongs - OUT of OUR governments. NOW is the time.
The real story is that the vast majority of Americans believe in Separation of Church and State as demanded in OUR U.S. Constitution. Separation of Church and State protects a person's right to choose as they wish in their home and place of worship without government interference AND protects everyone else from having any religious belief pushed on them by laws passed by radial religionists.
The Con Don and his Top 1% Global Financial Elite Robber Baron/ Radical Religion Good Old Boys Party must have religion to ramp up chaos and hate between citizens. It's their MO - cause chaos among the peons over the unprovable, abstract concept called religion - while they rob everyone else blind and live their garish, greedy lives.
It's a tale as old as recorded time and it's time for America to move into the 21st century and put organized religion back where it belongs - OUT of OUR governments. NOW is the time.
39
I forgot to say that the supposed "pro-lifers" who are actually radical religionists opposed to abortion, had nationwide rallies against Planned Parenthood on Saturday and were unbelievably outnumbered by Pro-Planned-Parenthood supporters. In a small city near Seattle there were six anti-abortionists and 400 Planned Parenthood supporters.
WE have simply allowed the supposed "angry white men" and anti-abortionists to shout and yell without shouting and yelling back. Things have changed in America. The Silent Majority is Roaring that WE do not want the kind of America that The Con Don and his Top 1% Global Financial Elite Robber Baron/ Radial Religion Good Old Boys Party envision.
The Silent Majorities around the world agree wholeheartedly. No WWIII. No global financial meltdown to enrich the Robber Boys. No going back to the 5th or 15th centuries - or the 1950s. NO way. Not now. Not ever again.
WE have simply allowed the supposed "angry white men" and anti-abortionists to shout and yell without shouting and yelling back. Things have changed in America. The Silent Majority is Roaring that WE do not want the kind of America that The Con Don and his Top 1% Global Financial Elite Robber Baron/ Radial Religion Good Old Boys Party envision.
The Silent Majorities around the world agree wholeheartedly. No WWIII. No global financial meltdown to enrich the Robber Boys. No going back to the 5th or 15th centuries - or the 1950s. NO way. Not now. Not ever again.
20
Striking parallels between Mussolini and Pope Pius XI. Il Duce was an immoral womanizer while the Pope wanted to break down the long-standing separation between church and state. They played off each other and we all know the results.
9
Religious right vs. radical Islam vs. Orthodox Jews. One and the same. The irony is lost on these people.
12
The so called Christians who supported Trump are a bunch of hypocrites.
They voted for more weapons on American soil. They voted for a man who wants to take away health insurance for millions. They are full of hate and racism and bigotry. The most religious people are often people without empathy for others. Very brutal, very dishonest. The religious right in the US is not very different from the Ayatollahs in Iran.
Same intolerance for others. Same totalitarian attitude. They do not look very nice from the outside.
They voted for more weapons on American soil. They voted for a man who wants to take away health insurance for millions. They are full of hate and racism and bigotry. The most religious people are often people without empathy for others. Very brutal, very dishonest. The religious right in the US is not very different from the Ayatollahs in Iran.
Same intolerance for others. Same totalitarian attitude. They do not look very nice from the outside.
18
Just about every known religion is practiced in our country and there are “thousands” of them ! Christianity alone has thousands of denominations of faith . . . and the great thing about living here, is that we are FREE to believe in any of them – without persecution.
There seems to be that “Golden Rule” theme in most of them – you know – the “do unto others as you would have others do unto you” . . . .
This theme is so popular because “it’s a good rule” – one that people of just about any faith can get behind . . . and even those with none !
Our founding fathers were brilliant people. They understood the “power of belief” and were wise to make it very clear that these many and varied religious beliefs have no business interfering with our Democracy.
I find the far Christian Right to be as threatening to our Democracy as ANY fundamentalist and extreme belief system regardless of name or origin.
These are very scary times while witnessing “one religion of many thousands” forging a war and apparently winning ground towards their “brand” being the religion of our country – moving us closer to a fundamentalist theocracy. . . the very thing that terrifies us from overseas and within.
There seems to be that “Golden Rule” theme in most of them – you know – the “do unto others as you would have others do unto you” . . . .
This theme is so popular because “it’s a good rule” – one that people of just about any faith can get behind . . . and even those with none !
Our founding fathers were brilliant people. They understood the “power of belief” and were wise to make it very clear that these many and varied religious beliefs have no business interfering with our Democracy.
I find the far Christian Right to be as threatening to our Democracy as ANY fundamentalist and extreme belief system regardless of name or origin.
These are very scary times while witnessing “one religion of many thousands” forging a war and apparently winning ground towards their “brand” being the religion of our country – moving us closer to a fundamentalist theocracy. . . the very thing that terrifies us from overseas and within.
17
The mutual embrace of Trump and the religious right stands as a monument to political expediency. Evangelical Christians in particular want the power to work their will on the rest of us, while Trump wants their votes. If Trump has dubious morals, the religious right can forgive his sins if he gives them what they want.
17
""You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt has lost its
flavor, with what will it be salted? It is then good for nothing,
but to be cast out and trodden under the feet of men."
Hope these Pharisees enjoy the fruits of their bargain. It was expensive. It cost them any claim they held to moral high ground.
flavor, with what will it be salted? It is then good for nothing,
but to be cast out and trodden under the feet of men."
Hope these Pharisees enjoy the fruits of their bargain. It was expensive. It cost them any claim they held to moral high ground.
27
It just goes to show how desperate the religious right is for power that they're actually buying this act by Trump. I remember laughing out loud when Trump said the IRS was targeting him because he was a "strong Christian".
Oh, yes, you demonstrate Christian values, like every other thrice-divorced bully with an unrelenting focus on vengeance.
Oh, yes, you demonstrate Christian values, like every other thrice-divorced bully with an unrelenting focus on vengeance.
46
Oh please, call this what it is: two entities who have found a compromise relationship both can exploit for mutual gain. The religious right exchanged voting for a man who is the embodiment of sin for quid pro quo on Supreme Court nominees and religious "freedom" legislation. Each is using the other, and the religious right has cynically turned away from their core values to embrace Trump so they can get their way in policy. I wonder, where are their lessons for Trump on loving neighbors, caring for the poor, and so on? Their silence on such matters is telling. And therein lies what these two do have in common: unfiltered hate for people they don't understand or agree with, and a deeply rooted desire to silence and control them.
30
"The power of the Christian right rests largely in the fact that they boldly claim religious authority, and by their boldness convince the rest of us that they must know what they're talking about. They're like the guy who gives you directions with such loud confidence that you drive on even though the road appears to be turning into a faint, rutted track." From Bill McKibben.
14
Why do we bestow power on a group who believe in something never proven to exist? Why is "god" superior to science and rational thought?
2
Separation of church and state?
15
I was a professional Artist is North Carolina for nine years and what those creepy evangelicals tried to do me with their ridicule and patronizing and manipulation was the product of evil. Hillary Clinton's campaign sent me an email asking what issues I would like see addressed: Surveillance and State Theocracies were my issues.
16
The "Religious Right" is neither "religious" nor "right," any more than the "Moral Majority" was either of those things.
What evangelicals have exposed more fully than ever this time around is that they have no moral core -- unlike the homeless, fringe agitator who gave Christianity its name, they are about power and wealth and nothing else. Though religions are supposed to provide a rebuke to the status quo and a challenge to the worst aspects of human nature, this current incarnation of the "religious right" provides only a mirror.
What evangelicals have exposed more fully than ever this time around is that they have no moral core -- unlike the homeless, fringe agitator who gave Christianity its name, they are about power and wealth and nothing else. Though religions are supposed to provide a rebuke to the status quo and a challenge to the worst aspects of human nature, this current incarnation of the "religious right" provides only a mirror.
57
Another scary White House ploy. Let's pick out one group for special treatment all in the name of political expediency. The hypocrisy of the Christian right is stunning. They don't care one wit what kind of a man Donald Trump is, as long as they get what they want. And what they want is for the government (who they supposedly hate) to enact laws so that the whole country will behave in the manner that they decree is correct. This isn't the Christian faith I was brought up with. But it's not the Christian right that is scary, but the fact that those in government feel they can impose these ideas on the rest of us. Soon it won't just be a Muslim ban, but a ban on anything the White House and conservative Republicans decide is warranted. As the President would say, sad.
29
Why is it so difficult for these folks to understand the concept of separation of Church and State. Our government is not to be driven by Christian ideology anymore than by Sharia law that christians abhor. This already great country allows them to believe any loopy mythology they care to, but not to impose it on the rest of us.
Many of us would like to believe our leaders are proceeding on the basis of well thought out policies based on a good moral core, solids ethics, the best science available, and charity. Please leave your bibles at home. Nothing is more offensive than a politician quoting scripture.
Many of us would like to believe our leaders are proceeding on the basis of well thought out policies based on a good moral core, solids ethics, the best science available, and charity. Please leave your bibles at home. Nothing is more offensive than a politician quoting scripture.
18
I find it interesting that they haven't had the opportunity to update the White House Visitor Access Records yet.
"This page is being updated. It will post records of White House visitors on an ongoing basis, once they become available."
Shall we guess that it will NEVER become available and the many who wish to influence the current resident will never be known? The religious right, the oil industry, the Wall Street employees, alt-right broadcasters/supporters, and those friendly with Russia will never appear?
"This page is being updated. It will post records of White House visitors on an ongoing basis, once they become available."
Shall we guess that it will NEVER become available and the many who wish to influence the current resident will never be known? The religious right, the oil industry, the Wall Street employees, alt-right broadcasters/supporters, and those friendly with Russia will never appear?
24
The evangelical right stopped being a religious movement and became a solely political one back in the late 60s. Their social conservatism may have initially been a product of their religious beliefs, but it has since become an ideology of its own, distinct and separate from religion, though still happy to dishonestly cloak itself in the church to lend it legitimacy.
52
Religious conservatives and Trump? An oxymoron if ever there was one. That man in the White House is a sexual predator, who even brags about this, because he's white and rich and gets away with it because of that, and religious conservatives? The whole lot of them are just too disgusting for words.
46
Any American who cares about our country, our form of government, our democracy, our educational system, should be very worried about this. Religion and democracy should not mix.
Women, in particular, should pay close attention to this takeover. If you want freedom for your daughters to choose, and for REAL SCIENCE to be taught in public schools, then pay attention. And vote in the mid-terms for science-believing politicians. We don't need the bible taught in science class. It's 2017, for pete's sake. Religion is so 15th century.
Women, in particular, should pay close attention to this takeover. If you want freedom for your daughters to choose, and for REAL SCIENCE to be taught in public schools, then pay attention. And vote in the mid-terms for science-believing politicians. We don't need the bible taught in science class. It's 2017, for pete's sake. Religion is so 15th century.
47
Look at the results of theocracies in the world - a non-educated, non-competitive populace unable to compete or even participate in the world economy.
1
Theoretical definition --"Evangelical: of or according to the teaching of the gospel or the Christian religion."
Realistic definition -- Evangelicals: the biggest pseudo-Christian religious bigots and hypocrites in the nation. There is NOTHING Christ-like in pursuing political power, personal or organizational riches and seeking control over others's beliefs and lives. WWJD?? Evangelicals wouldn't know if it slapped them in the face!
Realistic definition -- Evangelicals: the biggest pseudo-Christian religious bigots and hypocrites in the nation. There is NOTHING Christ-like in pursuing political power, personal or organizational riches and seeking control over others's beliefs and lives. WWJD?? Evangelicals wouldn't know if it slapped them in the face!
85
Breathtakingly cynical deal with the devil on the part of evangelicals. Just more of the Mitch McConnell school of the End justifying the Means, no matter what they are.
And thus we will have the modern crusades. I am yet again so grateful to be a menopausal woman, because fundamentalism always works itself out first on women's bodies and lives.
I am thoughtful about much of this country's fear of Islam, because more and more, I am afraid of American Christians. I am afraid of crazy young probably Christian white men with legal arsenals. I am afraid of old Christian men with power, or who want power. And I do not understand and am truly afraid of the women who support them.
And thus we will have the modern crusades. I am yet again so grateful to be a menopausal woman, because fundamentalism always works itself out first on women's bodies and lives.
I am thoughtful about much of this country's fear of Islam, because more and more, I am afraid of American Christians. I am afraid of crazy young probably Christian white men with legal arsenals. I am afraid of old Christian men with power, or who want power. And I do not understand and am truly afraid of the women who support them.
27
i can't decide if trump or the 'christian' right are the most hypocritical and unchristian.
15
It's hard to understand how Christians can embrace a man who has a passing acquaintance with truth, who degrades and dehumanizes the weak, who cheats his contractors, who denigrates women, and who acts without humanity.
Followers of Jesus must consider how Jesus would respond. We can and should feel compassion for him and pray for him--but support his positions? No.
Followers of Jesus must consider how Jesus would respond. We can and should feel compassion for him and pray for him--but support his positions? No.
15
It shows that their true devotion and commitment is not to Jesus Christ of the bible, but to some form of Cultural Christian Patriotism that they have bought into like the prosperity gospel. It's all about THEM, and all about NOW, not "Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done" Those words of Jesus Christ were replaced by "make America Great Again". That is what they really worship.
Religious conservatives lost all credibility when they backed a candidate who is a thrice-married, serial mysognist who, until he decided to run for President, held positions that were anathema to evangelicals. Their prescriptions for America reflect a pre-industrial world view in which women were subjugated and poverty was considered a sin against civilization.
Trump, religiously, is an utter fraud. He only worships at a mirror. The engineer of this far-right religious orthodoxy is Pastor Mike Pence, whose social and cultural convictions were too radical for even Indiana. To get where he is, Pastor Pence made a deal with the devil; it's no wonder that whenever you see him standing behind Trump, he has an expression of equal parts avenging angel and frightened little boy.
Trump, religiously, is an utter fraud. He only worships at a mirror. The engineer of this far-right religious orthodoxy is Pastor Mike Pence, whose social and cultural convictions were too radical for even Indiana. To get where he is, Pastor Pence made a deal with the devil; it's no wonder that whenever you see him standing behind Trump, he has an expression of equal parts avenging angel and frightened little boy.
21
So sorry. People of faith have rights too, including freedom of speech and religion, which racist, liberal Democrat fascists have been oppressing for years. Hate-filled violent "progressives" have revealed their true colors as REGRESSIVES.
1
Jeff, please provide examples of the oppression you speak of. Freedom of speech applies to everyone, regardless of what they say and whether people agree with it. I have no use whatsoever for organized religion, but its adherents are certainly welcome to say and believe as they choose. Do evil liberals picket outside your church to stop people getting inside? No, of course not. But we DO resist laws allowing discrimination, which I'm guessing is your problem.
6
"My right to tell you what you are allowed to do." Yes, we have heard it all before. You can't cover up declining attendance and the radical rejection of church by people under 30. You are sowing the seeds of your own demise.
6
Jeff, as I said in my own comment, whose church, whose religion. The framers of the Constitution knew what they were doing by separating church and state. Too much power in the hands of a particular religion or sect of a religion leads to oppression of other points of view. You believe what works for you. I'll believe what works for me. If there is a G-d, he or she must be shaking their head and asking themselves "How did this go so wrong?" Remember the Inquisition? Power in one particular religion worked really well! If you were not Catholic, you must convert or be killed.
2
I believe the long view of history will be that this is the beginning of the end of both true Christianity and Democracy in America.
10
"For Democrats, Being Out of Power Has Its Perks" headlines another report. To admit defeat or not -- that is the question. Or are journalists "trying to cover all sides of the story just in case one of them is right"? Parties exist for power. If they are out of power, they tend to go crazy a little bit.
1
Now this is scary:
Attorney General Jeff Sessions, a Methodist, has questioned the wisdom of separating church and state.
Whose church? Whose religion?
Attorney General Jeff Sessions, a Methodist, has questioned the wisdom of separating church and state.
Whose church? Whose religion?
22
Please don't refer to people like Ben Carson and Betsy Devos as having "deep Christian faith". The job of the church, famously, is to "comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable". These hypocrites want to do the exact opposite.
28
Religious conservatives are an important voting bloc in America. The liberal opposition has never embraced them because they believe in moral values and personal responsibility. The liberal opposition promotes a lifestyle which is basically a free-for-all when it comes tp personal responsibility, fidelity, and truth. The liberal lives according to the dictum, “if it feels good, do it.” I am not a religious conservative, but I agree with their adherence to morals and personal responsibility. Trump arguably is not the epitome of Christian virtue, but who is; in fact, the last person who measured up was nailed to cross. But as the op-ed states, Trump will protect their right to live according to morality and God given truths, whereas previous administrations, especially the last one did not. Thank you.
3
Dear Southern Boy:
You exemplify the power of (certain) media to confuse people with labels.
Let's look at the (non-alternative) facts.
Where do you find the greatest numbers of abortions, out-of-wedlock births, domestic abuse (to be clear, 95% of that consists of men brutally assaulting partners, often sending them to the ER), drunk driving, and yes, except for a few inner cities, gun violence? (I'm assuming - perhaps this is a mistaken assumption - that you would consider these immoral)?
In states with a large majority of religious conservatives. When I moved to South Carolina in 2002, it was the #1 state in the country in domestic violence. The abused women I spoke to (over 500) almost to a person said their husbands would often cite the Bible (no, not the "Old" Testament, but Paul) as justification for their actions).
On the contrary, when you look at predominantly liberal communities, you find intact families, hard working people, people who act in ways to serve their communities, etc (the oft quoted but mistaken polls showing religious conservatives donate more than liberals fall apart when you subtract donations to one's church; without that included, liberals give far more money and time in volunteering).
Now, if we can get beyond labels, there are no doubt liberals who fit your description, and conservatives who are good, caring people.
e pluribus unum, out of many, One.
www.remember-to-breathe.org
You exemplify the power of (certain) media to confuse people with labels.
Let's look at the (non-alternative) facts.
Where do you find the greatest numbers of abortions, out-of-wedlock births, domestic abuse (to be clear, 95% of that consists of men brutally assaulting partners, often sending them to the ER), drunk driving, and yes, except for a few inner cities, gun violence? (I'm assuming - perhaps this is a mistaken assumption - that you would consider these immoral)?
In states with a large majority of religious conservatives. When I moved to South Carolina in 2002, it was the #1 state in the country in domestic violence. The abused women I spoke to (over 500) almost to a person said their husbands would often cite the Bible (no, not the "Old" Testament, but Paul) as justification for their actions).
On the contrary, when you look at predominantly liberal communities, you find intact families, hard working people, people who act in ways to serve their communities, etc (the oft quoted but mistaken polls showing religious conservatives donate more than liberals fall apart when you subtract donations to one's church; without that included, liberals give far more money and time in volunteering).
Now, if we can get beyond labels, there are no doubt liberals who fit your description, and conservatives who are good, caring people.
e pluribus unum, out of many, One.
www.remember-to-breathe.org
9
Nonsense. If the religious right conservatives truly believed in "personal responsibility" it would DEMAND contraception to be free, universal and on demand. Ditto for abortion.
However, it demands that women be unequal under the Constitution, have to shell out more bucks than men who get free Viagra, and is over-joyed that Hobby Lobby, a for-profit business gets to dictate it's "religious beliefs" on the citizens of this land.
"Personal responsibility" is the last thing that Evangelicals want from any man or woman. "You will do as you are told" is their holy writ.
However, it demands that women be unequal under the Constitution, have to shell out more bucks than men who get free Viagra, and is over-joyed that Hobby Lobby, a for-profit business gets to dictate it's "religious beliefs" on the citizens of this land.
"Personal responsibility" is the last thing that Evangelicals want from any man or woman. "You will do as you are told" is their holy writ.
10
Utter tosh. You haven't the faintest idea what you think you're talking about. Red states and their hordes of self-proclaimed Christians have more poverty, illiteracy, out-of-wedlock births, violence, divorce, etc.
There are religious liberals and non-religious liberals and atheists liberals and agnostic liberals -- and the same goes for conservatives.
Just because the phony Christians are louder and get all the press and, for the moment, the so-called President's ear, does not mean they are morally superior in any way.
There are religious liberals and non-religious liberals and atheists liberals and agnostic liberals -- and the same goes for conservatives.
Just because the phony Christians are louder and get all the press and, for the moment, the so-called President's ear, does not mean they are morally superior in any way.
8
With their new found fealty towards, and fervent veneration of Don the Con, the religious right has now proven, beyond all shadow of a doubt, that they are a morally and spiritually bankrupt group of venal charlatans, who will use any ignorant tool to codify their extreme religious bigotry and misogyny into laws rammed down the throats of the majority of Americans who neither share nor want to live their narrow, intolerant views. These people have spent years screaming about their "persecution," a fictional script if ever there were one, and now, they are using the orange-headed narcissist to cement their intolerance, and he is using that intolerance to augment his own venomous and racial hatred. If ever there were a living embodiment of the so-called "Ugly Americans," this entire crowd would be Exhibit 1. Their goal? Total corrosion of the separation of church and state. They must be stopped, period, before they completely destroy this nation. 2/13, 9:49 AM
27
When I hear someone proposing that we should allow religious symbols and statements into public spaces, I sometimes have the impulse to say, "I agree, I think that there should be Shinto shrines in every public library and city hall and courthouse, don't you? ...Oh, I see, you weren't talking about religion, you were actually talking about YOUR religion."
John Adams: “The government of the United States of America is not in any sense founded on the Christian religion.” (Treaty of Tripoli, 1797)
Thomas Jefferson: “Christianity neither is, nor ever was, a part of the common law.” (Letter to Dr. Thomas Cooper, February 10, 1814)
James Madison: “The civil government … functions with complete success … by the total separation of the Church from the State.” (Writings, 8:432, 1819)
"And I have no doubt that every new example will succeed, as every past one has done, in shewing that religion & Govt will both exist in greater purity, the less they are mixed together." (letter to Edward Livingston, July 10, 1822)
George Washington: “If I could conceive that the general government might ever be so administered as to render the liberty of conscience insecure, I beg you will be persuaded, that no one would be more zealous than myself to establish effectual barriers against the horrors of spiritual tyranny, and every species of religious persecution.” (Letter to the United Baptist Chamber of Virginia, May 1789)
And this White House sees themselves as "originalists"?
John Adams: “The government of the United States of America is not in any sense founded on the Christian religion.” (Treaty of Tripoli, 1797)
Thomas Jefferson: “Christianity neither is, nor ever was, a part of the common law.” (Letter to Dr. Thomas Cooper, February 10, 1814)
James Madison: “The civil government … functions with complete success … by the total separation of the Church from the State.” (Writings, 8:432, 1819)
"And I have no doubt that every new example will succeed, as every past one has done, in shewing that religion & Govt will both exist in greater purity, the less they are mixed together." (letter to Edward Livingston, July 10, 1822)
George Washington: “If I could conceive that the general government might ever be so administered as to render the liberty of conscience insecure, I beg you will be persuaded, that no one would be more zealous than myself to establish effectual barriers against the horrors of spiritual tyranny, and every species of religious persecution.” (Letter to the United Baptist Chamber of Virginia, May 1789)
And this White House sees themselves as "originalists"?
130
Excellent! These historical statements must be shouted from the mountain top. The American public is just sooooo ignorant that it will kill us!
3
Not if Betsy D gets her way - at least 1 to 2 more generations of low information voters, easily manipulated by the GOP marketing machine.
This is poor journalism that reinforces a particular story to its own bubble. It does nothing to check its own assumptions and pains all religious right as a unitary pillar- which it is not. It does not speak about the 500 evangelical leaders who took out an add in the Washington Post to oppose Trump's refugee ban or the op-ed from the head of the southern baptist convention. It instead paints all evangelicals as fixed on only one issue who are willing to make deals for that issue. This may be true for a certain evangelical elite, but it is not true overall.
7
The article, except for its headline (which Ms Goodstein likely did not write), describes how several high-profile self-titled Christian conservative leaders have gained access to the so-called President and how he is apparently doing whatever they want.
That this payoff probably has nothing to do with Trump's actual religion (there is no evidence he genuinely worships anything beyond himself and piles of money) is irrelevant. This group of evangelical leaders have long demonstrated they care nothing about the teachings attributed to Jesus (let alone the words attributed to him), but only about power, money and oppressing those whose spiritual experiences are different than theirs. They understand nothing about what religious freedom is.
They lust for power and money. Period.
There is nothing remotely Christian, let alone Christ-like about them or the so-called President they now bow before.
The 500 who signed the ad, on the other hand, shows signs of actual faith.
That this payoff probably has nothing to do with Trump's actual religion (there is no evidence he genuinely worships anything beyond himself and piles of money) is irrelevant. This group of evangelical leaders have long demonstrated they care nothing about the teachings attributed to Jesus (let alone the words attributed to him), but only about power, money and oppressing those whose spiritual experiences are different than theirs. They understand nothing about what religious freedom is.
They lust for power and money. Period.
There is nothing remotely Christian, let alone Christ-like about them or the so-called President they now bow before.
The 500 who signed the ad, on the other hand, shows signs of actual faith.
6
Trump took 4 out of 5 white evangelicals. Despite some dissent in the ranks, this is still one of the most powerful voting blocs. They are also spread across many states--giving them outsize power via the electoral college.
If the left sticks to science, reason, and inclusivity, then they will overcome them eventually.
If the left sticks to science, reason, and inclusivity, then they will overcome them eventually.
3
Trump is obviously has nerve been driven by, or passionate about any religious platform or faith. As a narcissist, he must be 'adored.' If it is the unholy alliance of white supremecists, anti-choice disciples, and feckless DC power-mongers, that will bow at his feet, so be it. He'll take it. Pence is much more dangerous, as he truly believes he is on the earth to straighten the rest of us heathens out, and impose his earthly version of divine mandated faith. That is scary for many of us (example: I am a secular humanist and buddhist) Of course, he has a big edge because his 'god' is a white guy. Just like him. How very convenient
24
Pence is the true Manchurian Candidate. Trump will be discarded (impeached) after the GOP gets their tax cuts.
To anyone who is concerned about where a highly religious president (whether genuine or convenient) and his devout administration could take the United States, I recommend 'Christian Nation' by Frederic C. Rich. The book is fictional -- I keep reminding myself of that, now that Donald Trump is President. Fiction.
15
What ever happened to "What would Jesus do?" Put together the personal attacks, the degradation of women, the discrimination based on faith and race, the mockery of people with disabilities, the anger, the venom. Do you find Jesus in there anywhere?
Ask yourself: Can you deceive and rationalize to such an extent that you believe you're supporting a Christian man? Or are you so enamored by the thought of power and control you've left your own Christianity behind?
Nowhere in the Good Book does it say, "The end justifies the means."
It does tell us that God will have the final say.
Ask yourself: Can you deceive and rationalize to such an extent that you believe you're supporting a Christian man? Or are you so enamored by the thought of power and control you've left your own Christianity behind?
Nowhere in the Good Book does it say, "The end justifies the means."
It does tell us that God will have the final say.
67
This government was built by Europeans fleeing religious persecution. They were called puritans because of their efforts to band together and create a sub culture that eschewed vices that were accepted in the main stream.
They came over here and survived because those already here helped out, and because they redistributed their wealth.
Those are American virtues.
They came over here and survived because those already here helped out, and because they redistributed their wealth.
Those are American virtues.
1
When you think how hard the Founding Fathers worked to keep religion out of politics, and now these so-called originalists are doing everything they can to undermine it. Franklin said that we have a Republic...if we can keep it? Can we?
90
So many citizens have forgotten the weird antics of various new-fangled religions that have been touted as "Christian" since sprouting up like weeds during the 1960s.
I think it is quite a pity that so many need assurance to calm their real fears, yet they are seeking advice from those "who lead the children astray."
I think it is quite a pity that so many need assurance to calm their real fears, yet they are seeking advice from those "who lead the children astray."
3
When the "Christian Right" supports a man who is a vulgar, bigoted, narcissist on his third trophy wife; it stands as proof that they are not really Christians and very far from being right.
208
Agree. Evangelicals in my family discussed this quite a lot before the election, though. They wanted Cruz, or even Carson then Cruz.
But various Christian publications sorted through the reasons to support Trump once he got the nomination, and it was about the Supreme Court. It's a deliberate Faustian bargain to get what they want on the Supreme Court.
But various Christian publications sorted through the reasons to support Trump once he got the nomination, and it was about the Supreme Court. It's a deliberate Faustian bargain to get what they want on the Supreme Court.
70
A woman who is younger than her husband is a mere trophy -- isn't it sexism? Do you know all such couples personally to reach your conclusion? I thought only religious ultraconservatives intrude into people's private live just to condemn them.
1
Not necessarily, no.
But the so-called President bragged to a newspaper about sex with his mistress while still married to his first wife. He cheated on her too after he married her. He has repeatedly bragged about sexually assaulting women.
His rampant objectification of women generally, underaged pageant contestants he liked to watch undress and his various wives in particular (until the next younger mistress came along), make it abundantly clear that he regards his wives as trophies.
Sure they have been successful in their own rights, as models, business women, the current as a plagiarist, etc.
But to him, money, power, adulation and women he thinks are hot are all that really matter.
But the so-called President bragged to a newspaper about sex with his mistress while still married to his first wife. He cheated on her too after he married her. He has repeatedly bragged about sexually assaulting women.
His rampant objectification of women generally, underaged pageant contestants he liked to watch undress and his various wives in particular (until the next younger mistress came along), make it abundantly clear that he regards his wives as trophies.
Sure they have been successful in their own rights, as models, business women, the current as a plagiarist, etc.
But to him, money, power, adulation and women he thinks are hot are all that really matter.
3
Thank you for not calling them Christian Conservatives. The religious right would not know Jesus is He walked up next to them and introduced Himself.
163
Thanks, third party voters.
94
And thanks to the DNC for giving us an unpopular candidate. And the media for splashing Trump news on every page, while ignoring Sanders. Don't worry, I held my nose and voted for HIllary. But I'm getting tired of holding my nose to vote AGAINST someone, rather than FOR someone.
3
Indeed. 600,000 third party voters in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pa. where Trump won by only 77,000 votes to win the election.
A national tragedy.
A national tragedy.
2
Yep, the 'purists' and the ones who 'voted their conscience' - Hillary was just too 'whatever' - and this is what we end up with.
4
I do not want to live in a Evangelical theocracy. It would be little different than living in Iran, under a Muslim theocracy.
254
Except in Iran, many things that evangelical Christians don't allow or discourage (such as divorce, women going to college, and women wearing pants) are commonplace, culturally normal (Iranian women are not pushovers) and religiously acceptable. And they have much better food.
9
Perhaps it is time to require *The Religious Right* and *The Evangelical Christian Community* to register their status as lobbyist/ registrant PACs.
182
Correct if they are going to be allowed to preach politics on Sunday Monday, then maybe they need to register as a lobbyist and pay taxes, if they want to participate. Why should they have a voice if they are not paying their fair share?
12
You can't argue with an evangelical. They will remind you of all the faults in a David or Moses or Peter and then launch a "spirit-filled" defense of a thrice married, fornicating, greedy, my way or the highway, bullying narcissist of a president and see him as being raised up by God to bring Christianity back from the dungeons liberals have consigned it to. I'm a progressive and a Christian and I have nothing but contempt for the Franklin Grahams of this country.
261
I regard Evangelicals as "self-identified" Christians because they do not follow the first rule of Jesus which is "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
Jesus did not say "Make everyone do what you want them to do no matter what religion or lack of it they hold."
Jesus did not say "Make everyone do what you want them to do no matter what religion or lack of it they hold."
13
Matthew 4:8-10
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.”
Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.”
Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’
89
Yes! I've thought of this verse many, many times in the past year. The religious right has sold their soul to the devil to get what they have wanted all along--political power. There will be a price to pay which but unfortunately, we will all be forced to contribute.
10
That's not what was said.
This is the sort of metaphoric word salad that passes for commentary nowadays. It's got your horned demon with wings, a promise of a great deal and angry counter offer to venerate an invisible being with benefits. Have I got it right?
1
Success should be eliminating poverty and hunger, oppression, human trafficking, and prioritizing the education of children.
2
Trump may have been the answer to the prayers of the far right religious conservatives, but he wasn’t the answer to my prayers or 65 million other voters. This country was founded on religious freedom, not the freedom to force a particular set of religious beliefs down the throats of all 300 plus million US citizens.
Religion is a personal choice and should not be legislated. You may be against abortion or even birth control, but you do not need a laws to govern your actions. You’re personal religious beliefs or lack of them is what makes this country free. Churches should stay out of politics. The Religious Right feels perfectly free to try and force their religious beliefs on others, but how would they feel if other religions did the same. What is there was a Hindu or Buddhist movement or for that matter Islam? Would they feel that these religions would also have the freedom to affect politics or is it only conservative Christianity that should control legislative power?
Trump is a very dangerous man because his only true religion is Trumpism. and he will use the Far Right to get want he wants no matter how it affected the rest of this country.
Religion is a personal choice and should not be legislated. You may be against abortion or even birth control, but you do not need a laws to govern your actions. You’re personal religious beliefs or lack of them is what makes this country free. Churches should stay out of politics. The Religious Right feels perfectly free to try and force their religious beliefs on others, but how would they feel if other religions did the same. What is there was a Hindu or Buddhist movement or for that matter Islam? Would they feel that these religions would also have the freedom to affect politics or is it only conservative Christianity that should control legislative power?
Trump is a very dangerous man because his only true religion is Trumpism. and he will use the Far Right to get want he wants no matter how it affected the rest of this country.
358
Sums it up beautifully
4
Why should your right to promote your moral views, that abortion should be readily available under the law, for instance, be more important than a Christian's right to promote anti-abortion views? Would an anti-abortion atheist (and there are some) have more right to promote his views than someone whose views arise from religion? Law is the imposition of somebody's morality on somebody else, and morality that arises from religious belief is just as valid and Constitutional as morality that doesn't.
I'm not an advocate for abortion, I'm advocate for separation of church and state.
6