Donald Trump's Presidency: A Window into America's Mindset

During Donald Trump's presidency, which encompassed the years 2017 to 2021, America faced a series of complex issues that challenged its foundational values and principles. This period is often seen as a reflection of the broader mindset and political climate of the United States. We explore the underlying attitudes and beliefs that contributed to Trump's rise to power, the corrupt political systems thatenabled his presidency, and the cultural phenomenon of the 'prosperity gospel' that characterized his ideological foundation.

University of Corruption: Trump's Political Climate

Donald Trump's presidency was marred by allegations of corruption and failed guardrails. His tenure highlighted a series of institutional failures within the USA, including a corrupt Supreme Court, a negligent and biased news media, and a compromised House of Representatives. These failures contributed to a political climate that enabled a charlatan to ascend to the highest office, reflecting broader societal issues such as ethical decay and a breakdown in democratic processes.

The Individualism Trap: Trump's Supporters and American Values

Throughout his life, Donald Trump exhibited a self-centered and winning-at-all-costs attitude, which is a common trait among many Americans. This mindset translates into a belief that taxes are detrimental and that individual success is paramount. Trump's supporters have taken this sense of individuality to an extreme, where the principles of 'law and order' are invoked selectively and freedom of speech is only protected when it aligns with their own interests.

The 'Prosperity Gospel' and Trump's Worldview

The arrival of Donald Trump in the Oval Office was not just a political event but also a cultural and religious phenomenon. The 'prosperity gospel' holds that success and prosperity on earth are signs of divine blessing. This worldview, which Trump himself espoused, suggests that good fortune comes to those who are morally upright and that adversity is the work of external forces. This belief system underpinned Trump's own narrative of success and laid the groundwork for his supporters' adherence to his policies and rhetoric.

Matthew 23: A Warning for Trump Supporters

The Gospel of Matthew chapter 23 serves as a powerful critique of the corrupt leadership styles and hypocrisy that characterized both the Pharisees and the corrupt political systems of Germany and Italy during World War II. Trump, like these historical figures, exhibited a set of characteristics that include self-aggrandizement, legalistic rule enforcement, and a disregard for the ethical obligations of leadership.

Biblical References:

Verses 2-4: The teachers of the law and Pharisees were not willing to follow their own rules, which highlights the disconnection between their words and actions. Verses 8-12: Jesus emphasizes that true followers of him are brothers and sisters, having a single teacher and father. Verses 13-36: These verses are a scathing critique of the hypocrisy, self-righteousness, and legalistic enforcement of rules, which are reminiscent of the attitudes that enabled Donald Trump's ascension to power.

Matthew 23 provides a stark warning for those who, like Trump supporters, have been ensnared by a set of beliefs that prioritize personal gain over communal responsibility. It serves as a reminder that true leadership and prosperity are not just about individual success but about building a society that values justice, mercy, and faithfulness.

The shift towards a more inclusive and ethical leadership style is necessary to address the deep-seated issues that enabled Trump's presidency and to move towards a future where genuine prosperity and morality can thrive.