Christianity Today’s Stance and the Shattered Myth of Evangelical Unity

There has been significant discussion and controversy surrounding the article that Christianity Today published advocating for the removal of Donald Trump from office. This move has spurred an outcry from many conservative evangelical Christians, including Franklin Graham, who responded with vehement criticism. Such back-and-forth disputes within the Christian community raise important questions about the nature of Christian unity and the role of the media in shaping religious discourse.

Forced to Face Incompatibilities

Those at Christianity Today have been disturbed by the incompatibility between certain behaviors of the current president and their core beliefs. This is a matter that goes beyond political affiliations and into the realm of spiritual tenets. Jesus' explicit command to love one another, as noted in John 13:34-35, is a fundamental principle that Christianity Today rightly believes should guide believers in their actions and policies.

The decision by Christianity Today to speak out against the president is a significant step, one that highlights the tension between moral and political behaviors within the broader Christian community.

Moral Divides and Tribalism

Franklin Graham's response underscores the deep divide that exists in the evangelical community. His commitment to a form of “tribalism” that pits the “chosen few” against the “godless heathens” reflects a worldview that sees Christianity as a strictly defined and exclusive group. This kind of thinking is not only alienating to those outside the tradition but also dangerous when it justifies self-centered actions and spreads fear and hatred.

Unfortunately, many have fallen into this trap throughout history, using religion to marginalize and exclude others. It is commendable that Christianity Today has not taken this path, instead choosing to uphold the values of Jesus rather than those of a political figure.

The Significance of Scriptural Authority

Franklin Graham's comment that Christianity Today represents the “elitist liberal wing of evangelicalism” is telling. It suggests a misunderstanding of the role of media in religious discourse. While media outlets can and should provide a platform for diverse voices, it is crucial to recognize that they do not merely echo one side of an argument.

Moreover, the idea that Christianity Today is only found in “garrets” and must keep an eye on an “Evangelical Police” is a parody of reality. These outlets, like any others, are democratically accessible and subject to the scrutiny of their readers. The notion of a “password” or a “code” to identify followers of a certain faction is a misunderstanding of both social media and religious practice.

Implications for Evangelical Loyalty

The fact that evangelical Christians often vote Republican regardless of any compelling arguments for voting Democrat is a disturbing trend. This blind loyalty is not only illogical but also detrimental to the moral and ethical standards that many claim to uphold.

When evangelical Christians do stand up and do the “right thing” by aligning themselves politically with a less favored figure, it is a significant moment. This not only highlights their commitment to principles over party loyalty but also challenges the status quo in a meaningful way. Such actions reflect a deeper engagement with scriptural values of justice and compassion.

The loss of subscribers and the negative impact on their community and other aspects of their faith may be a price worth paying for standing on the side of ethical and moral integrity. In the long run, such stances can strengthen the community's commitment to these principles.

A Call for Reform

The discourse around what is a "fact" versus political beliefs highlights a larger issue within conservative evangelical circles. The untenable idea that facts can be shaped to fit one's political beliefs undermines the very foundation of truth and integrity. We must work towards a world where actions and policies are judged based on their inherent merits, not just their alignment with one's political leanings.

In conclusion, Christianity Today's decision to write about the issues with Donald Trump is not only commendable but also necessary. It challenges the brokenness of moral and political unity in evangelical communities and serves as a beacon of light in a darkening spiritual landscape.