Donald Trump has been held up as a man ordained by God to lead the Untied States out of the wilderness of wokeism and other far left ideologies.  This has been promoted by some elements of Evangelical fundamentalist Christianity, especially those who proclaim themselves to be Christian Nationalists.  Now in my view Christian Nationalist fall into the same category as the Holy Roman Empire when Voltaire joked that it was not Holy or Roman or an Empire.  Christian Nationalists are neither Christian nor Nationalist.  Well, perhaps that doesn’t quite fit as they are Nationalists of the worst variety; a Nationalist being defined as “a person who strongly identifies with their own nation and vigorously supports its interests, especially to the exclusion or detriment of the interests of other nations.”

Those Christians who support Trump dismiss criticism of his moral failures and narcissism and generally unchristian behaviour to maintain that, if he is not the “second coming of God”, he is being used by God to fulfil God’s purpose just as God used a non-Isrealite, King Cyrus, to return the exiled Israelites back to the Promised Land. 

What Christian commentators seem to have overlooked is the possibility that Trump can be seen as the Antichrist who’s coming is foretold in the Bible including the so-called Trump Bible which Donald Trump is hawking for $59.99.  Let’s explore the concept of the Antichrist and see if Donald Trump fits the bill.  Note, I have had the able assistance of ChatGPT in this exposition.

The concept of the Antichrist is rooted in Christian eschatology, primarily appearing in the New Testament and referring to a figure who opposes Christ and deceives humanity in the end times. Different traditions interpret the idea differently, but there are common themes in its description.  Biblical Characteristics of the Antichrist:

    • Deception and Charisma: The Antichrist is described as a figure who deceives many through persuasive speech and charisma (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10).
    • Claims of Divinity or Authority: Often depicted as someone who exalts themselves above God or divine law (2 Thessalonians 2:4).
    • Opposition to Truth: Promotes falsehoods and leads people away from Christian teachings (1 John 2:22).
    • Global Influence: Exercises power on a large scale, often linked to political or economic authority (Revelation 13:7).
  1. Criticisms and Allegations Against Donald Trump: Critics of Donald Trump who draw parallels to the Antichrist typically focus on his perceived characteristics or actions that align with some of these themes:
    • Charisma and Polarization: Trump's ability to captivate a large following while deeply dividing public opinion has led some to see him as a figure capable of mass persuasion.
    • Self-Exaltation: His frequent boasts and statements about his abilities or accomplishments have been interpreted by some as self-aggrandizing.
    • Allegations of Deception: Critics often accuse him of spreading misinformation or prioritizing personal gain over truth.
    • Political Power and Influence: His role as a prominent global figure with significant influence on political and social movements aligns with the concept of a powerful leader in some Antichrist narratives.

From my perspective, I believe that many charismatic leaders of all kinds are always appearing on the world stage.  This has occurred in the past and will undoubtedly occur in the future.  The archetype of the Antichrist reflects the possibilities that lie within people and wait to be activated by individuals with the abilities and perspectives and morals (or lack thereof) which will appear Antichrist like.  This has occurred in the past with people such as Napoleon, Hitler, and even Ronald Regan.  These claims often arise in times of political turmoil or division, reflecting societal fears rather than theological consensus.  Donald Trump does indeed have some or many of the characteristics of an Antichrist.  However, I don’t believe he will be on center stage beyond the next four years.  

Personally, the biblical prediction of an Antichrist is one which is a matter of belief and unbelief.  It may come to pass as the second coming of Jesus may come to pass.  I will let that mystery be and be concerned with how to live in this world as a Christian.   That is enough on my journey.  I hope you can navigate the possibility on yours.