In recent years, the United States has seen a rise in conservative Christian beliefs influencing both foreign and domestic policies. This trend has been largely driven by the so-called “Christian right,” a group of politically active evangelical Christians who hold strong views about the end times and the role of the US in biblical prophecy. Journalist Sara Posner has been closely following this movement and its impact on American politics. In her recent article for The Intercept, she explores how the Christian right’s apocalyptic worldview is shaping the US’s actions on the global stage as well as within its own borders.
The article, titled “Trump’s Holy War Abroad and at Home,” delves into the complex and often contradictory beliefs held by the Christian right. On one hand, these individuals believe in a literal interpretation of the Bible and the idea of an impending end times. This involves the belief that the world will undergo a series of catastrophic events before the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of a new kingdom. This view has led many of these Christians to see current events, such as natural disasters and political turmoil, as signs of the end times.
Posner explains how these beliefs have influenced US foreign policy, particularly in regards to Israel and the Middle East. Many of the Christian right believe that the US has a divine duty to support Israel and protect it from its enemies. This has led to policies such as the relocation of the US embassy to Jerusalem and the recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. These actions have been celebrated by the evangelical community as fulfilling biblical prophecies.
However, as Posner points out, this blind support for Israel has also had consequences for the Palestinian people. The Christian right’s beliefs have led to a disregard for the human rights of Palestinians and a justification for Israel’s actions, including the expansion of settlements and the use of force against protesters. This one-sided approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict has not only fueled tensions in the region but also goes against the principles of fairness and justice that the US claims to uphold.
The impact of the Christian right’s end times beliefs is not limited to foreign policy; it also has significant consequences for domestic policies. Posner discusses how the apocalyptic worldview has affected issues such as abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and immigration. For example, many in the Christian right view abortion as a sign of society’s moral decline and believe that it must be outlawed to appease God. This has led to the passage of restrictive laws and the appointment of conservative judges who are likely to overturn Roe v. Wade.
Similarly, the Christian right’s opposition to LGBTQ+ rights is rooted in their belief that these individuals are not only sinners but also a sign of the end times. This has fueled discrimination and violence against the LGBTQ+ community, and their fight for equality continues to be met with resistance from political leaders who align themselves with the Christian right.
In the realm of immigration, the Christian right’s belief in an impending apocalypse has led to a fear and suspicion of immigrants, particularly those of different faiths. The idea that these individuals may be part of the Antichrist’s plan has been used to justify restrictive immigration policies and the construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border. This fear-mongering not only goes against the values of compassion and openness but also ignores the fact that many of these immigrants are fleeing from dire situations, seeking a better life for themselves and their families.
As Posner’s article demonstrates, the beliefs of the Christian right have had a profound influence on US foreign and domestic policies. The idea of an impending end times has been used to justify actions that go against human rights, fairness, and basic decency. By painting the world as a battleground between good and evil, the Christian right has created a dangerous and polarizing political landscape that is shaping the US in ways that are detrimental to its own citizens and the world at large.
It is essential for Americans to be aware of the role that the Christian right’s beliefs are playing in shaping their country’s policies. As a secular democracy, the US should not be governed by apocalyptic notions and religious dogma. Instead, policies should be based on evidence, reason, and compassion for all people. The voices of the Christian right must not be the only ones heard in the political arena, and it is up to the citizens to demand a separation of church and state.
In conclusion, Sara Posner’s article sheds light on the dangerous influence of the Christian right’s
