trump

Hypocrisy as an Impediment to Evangelism

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

The resurrected Jesus Christ’s Great Commission to His followers as expressed in Matthew 28:16-20 is to spread the gospel to all nations.

Evangelism is not easy for most of us. Sharing the gospel in a meaningful and compelling manner necessitates that we have considerable familiarity with God’s word. Some feel that they may not be sufficiently well-spoken to articulate His word in an impactful manner. But perhaps the greater challenge is that rarely are we gifted an audience that is enthusiastic about hearing the Lord’s plan for our salvation.

The challenge of a receptive audience is one often made more severe by a perceived hypocrisy on the part of some Christian evangelists – a perception that diminishes the credibility of the evangelist and the audience’s willingness to lend an ear.

When questioned by a scribe as to which is the first commandment of all, Jesus responded:

“The first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:29-31

That these passages encompass the Lord’s response to a single question confirms that the love of God and love of neighbor cannot be separated. In fact, love of God is manifested in the love of our neighbor. Loving others is how we love God. Matthew 25:40 implies precisely this when Jesus says to His sheep:

“…inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.”

The importance of loving our neighbor is intensified when viewed through the lens of the Lord’s instruction in Matthew 5:44 to:

“…love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”

This is the heart of a Christian. Although we often fail, God, in His abundant mercy and grace, forgives us. But reckless disregard and contempt for God’s word has no place in that heart. Instead, we are to have godly remorse of our disobedience, repent of it, and endeavor to sin no more (see 2 Cor 7:10).

At the National Prayer Breakfast on February 6, 2020, Harvard professor Arthur Brooks echoed the Lord’s command to love your enemies. President Donald Trump responded to Brooks’ exhortation by saying, “I don’t know if I agree with you.”

As the president’s disagreement was not with Mr. Brooks but with God, it was an appropriate opportunity for his Christian advisors to deliver suitable correction.

Instead, when asked about POTUS’ comments, one such advisor who pastors a Dallas megachurch replied, “I think the president was completely right in what he said.” This comes from a man who is purportedly guiding his flock to eternal life through obedience to Christ. He should also be intimately familiar with Psalm 12:8:

“The wicked prowl on every side,
When vileness is exalted among the sons of men.”

Exalting vileness is precisely what this Texas pastor has done. Would not direct contradiction of God’s word comprise “vileness?”

His is not alone. While many would characterize Mr. Trump’s often hateful behavior toward others as a vile transgression of God’s greatest commandment, he remains virtually uncensored by much of the evangelical community.

It is not my intent to debate the heart of Donald Trump. I would rather pray for a repentant heart that will lead to his salvation. However, it is imperative to point out the hypocrisy on the part of those who should know better. Their failure to censor, to correct and to disavow is at the root of that hypocrisy. Romans 16:17-18 is absolutely clear:

“Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.”

Certainly, there are many teachers within the church that note God’s boundless grace and use ungodly behavior as a teaching opportunity. They lovingly reprimand the abuser and encourage repentance.

That, however, was not the case for this Dallas pastor. Nor is it so for more than a few in the evangelical community. Instead, by turning a blind eye to unrepentant disobedience of God’s word, they empower, endorse and encourage such disobedience. In other words, they exalt it. To nonbelievers, this represents a noxious hypocrisy on the part of those who would teach them God’s word. How then, can the unenlightened be receptive to hearing the gospel if the credibility of the messenger is so compromised?

Finally…

Hypocrisy is an accusation sometimes levied at the Christian Church. Such disparagement can often be attributed to a lack of understanding or context – and is simply the persecution of His disciples foreshadowed by Jesus in the gospels.

Frequently, however, such criticism is credible based on persistent behavior – or the implied endorsement thereof – that clearly runs contrary to well-known Christian principles.

Such endorsements by significant segments of the Christian community – particularly evangelical celebrity leadership – foment the claims of hypocrisy by non-Christians. They are not wrong.

Scripture commands us to share the Gospel, to testify of the Lord, and to bring as many to Him as we are able. To do so, we must be living testimonies to the word of God. We must be women and men of humility and integrity. Above all, we must demonstrate – in word and deed – what it means to love your neighbor as yourself. Only then can we have the ear of non-Christians and the credibility to articulate a persuasive case for Jesus.

The Antichrist? Maybe not, but POTUS is pedal-to-the-metal on the road to Armageddon

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

Two years ago, I authored a post originally titled “Avenues to Armageddon.” A slightly edited version was reposted a year later as “Armageddon: Humanity’s Fragile Existence and Faith in the Last Days.”

I noted in that post that the Doomsday Clock was, at that time, sitting at a mere 90 seconds before midnight. It has subsequently moved a tick closer.

My intent was to bring awareness that the last days may indeed be upon us – yet those of us in Christ can take comfort in the knowledge that we have salvation in Him. Scripture is clear that such days, if not already here, are forthcoming.

I also speculated on the potential origins of the global apocalypse that would precipitate Armageddon. Among them:

  • Nuclear annihilation;
  • Cataclysmic climate change rendering our planet uninhabitable;
  • A global pestilence;
  • A technology meltdown or incursion rendering defense, financial, governmental and other systems inoperable leading to universal chaos;
  • A technology takeover of global systems driven by irresponsible management of artificial intelligence enterprises;

Let’s consider each of these, briefly examining the policies and actions of the Trump administration that make each scenario more probable.

Nuclear Proliferation: The Trump administration has pulled out of or scaled back involvement in several multilateral treaties or agreements critics considered essential to help restrain or provide transparency in nuclear arms. This includes the 2019 withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) allowing both the U.S. and Russia more freedom in the deployment of intermediate‑range missiles increasing tensions in Europe and Asia – and the 2018 withdrawal from the JCPOA (better known as the Iran Nuclear Deal) prompting Iran to step back from compliance and step up nuclear efforts. Trump’s rhetoric has also increased tensions based on his stated belief that the U.S. must “greatly strengthen and expand its nuclear capability.”

Cataclysmic Climate Change: The administration has rolled back several regulations related to emissions and pollution including The Clean Power Plan, vehicle efficiency and emission standards, and protocols limiting methane leaks from oil and gas infrastructure – all of which led to a dramatic increase in greenhouse gases. Executive Order 14162 formally withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Accord while the administration also pulled back from funding and commitments related to international climate cooperation. Moreover, fossil fuel development is being fast-tracked while clean energy initiatives are being blocked. Perhaps most dangerously, Trump seeks to repeal the government’s endangerment finding that carbon dioxide emissions harm public health. Should that occur, the EPA could no longer regulate auto or power plant emissions.

Pestilence: Several Trump actions have increased global vulnerability to future pandemics and undermined preparedness. Withdrawing the U.S. from the World Health Organization in 2020 has weakened the potential for global coordination during a public health crisis while sowing international distrust of this country as a partner in global health. The NSC’s Pandemic Office – tasked with pandemic preparedness and response – was dismantled by Trump in 2018. Trump’s appointment of Robert Kennedy, Jr. to the post of Health & Human Services Secretary has fomented vaccine apprehension, cast unwarranted skepticism on medical science, completely upended such agencies as the FDA and CDC, and eroded public trust. His “big, beautiful bill” has dramatically damaged the U.S. health system by reducing access to vulnerable populations, increasing costs for insured and undermining the financial viability of healthcare providers – further crippling this nation’s pandemic response.

Technology Melt-Down Resulting in Global Chaos: I don’t know that I can pin this one on POTUS, but there is clearly a scenario in which the technological systems we rely on are compromised. With seemingly every global actor seeking to infiltrate the computer systems of its enemies – and often its allies – there is interminable vulnerability to universal chaos. There is one system, in particular, that fits within the apocalyptic prophecies of many Christians – the global financial system. Specifically, some see Revelation 13 as intimating a one-world government and single world currency as precursors to the apocalypse. Logically this currency would be digital, making Trump’s recent 180-degree flip on cryptocurrencies thought-provoking. His pre-2021 criticism contrasts with his 2024 acceptance of crypto donations, pro-crypto rhetoric and, significantly, the Trump family’s aggressive participation in crypto projects that have produced personal gains estimated to be $500 million to $2 billion. Interestingly, his rhetoric towards Canada, Greenland and other sovereign nations may hint at aspirations to lead a one-world government.

Irresponsible Management of Artificial Intelligence Enterprises: Hollywood has essentially prophesied of the threat posed by AI for more than 40 years. Way back in 1983, the movie WarGames dramatized the potential peril associated with AI and military computer systems. A year later, Terminator projected similar warnings that AI, given unwarranted autonomy and control – particularly in military scenarios – can act against humanity. The Trump administration remains unmoved by such prognostications. Instead, POTUS has revoked the Biden-era Executive Order (14110) that required safety tests, comprehensive reporting on high-risk AI systems and ensured transparency in AI development. One of Trump’s first EO’s upon returning to office was 14179, shifting focus from risk mitigation to the promotion of unencumbered AI development for commercial and military purposes.

Trump has often intimated that he believes he is fulfilling a divine role or mission, particularly when it aligns with political goals or audience expectations. Perhaps he genuinely believes he is doing “God’s work” in a spiritual sense. I am of the belief, however, that such rhetoric is more likely a strategic narrative to con and connect with religious supporters.

I actually do believe he is doing God’s work, albeit unwittingly. Throughout scripture, God uses people of questionable character to accomplish His will.

No, I do not believe it is God’s will to promote hate, bigotry, the pursuit of money and power, the further subjugation of the poor, and the destruction of His creation. Rather, I believe God is using Donald Trump to show beyond all doubt that the last days are upon us.

But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. 2 Timothy 3:1-5

Indeed, this seems not only an apt description of the human race in these last days, but of the man who today is ostensibly the leader of the free world.

To be clear, that is my assessment of his behavior – not his heart. I cannot and will not judge his heart – only the conduct that stems from it. I pray each day that he will open that heart to God and, like King Manasseh of Judah, seek repentance and enjoy the Lord’s divine mercy in his own last days.

Related: The Deception of Trump-Love

He Can’t Help Himself

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , 1 Comment

Donald Trump is not shy about professing his Christianity. He often surrounds himself with religious leaders who display their fealty – many of whom are active practitioners of the heretical prosperity gospel and declare POTUS to be the hand of God.

I am incapable of judging Trump’s heart and, thus, his faith. That alone is the realm of our God in heaven.

“Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God.” (1 Corinthians 4:5, NIV)

But I am quite capable – obligated, actually, as are we all – to judge the defiance to God’s word that is plainly on display and gives evidence of a cankerous soul.

The problem for POTUS – and for all of us given the political clout granted him by his sycophants, including those in the Supreme Court – is that while he professes his faith, he is entirely impotent in the face of his narcissism. That is, he is utterly incapable of taking any action that does not make him feel good about himself. Needless to say, this is problematic for the leader of our nation.

In a previous post, I argued that Trump appears ignorant of the wisdom proffered by Solomon in Proverbs 28 in which he warns against greed, dishonesty, corruption and pride in leadership. The king, Solomon, that is, praises honesty, compassion, justice, generosity and accountability.

Honestly, I don’t know if POTUS is a wise man. Whatever wisdom he may indeed possess is smothered by his lack of humility, his compulsion for vengeance and his indifference to the truth. He acts not on the basis of wisdom – and certainly not on God’s great command to love your neighbor – but on his enormous, uncontrollable self-worth.

This personality disorder has manifested in so many ways that are not only devastating to the constituents that Trump has pledged to serve, but to our democracy and way of life.

  • Nowhere is his narcissism on greater display than his prioritization of personal fealty over professional competence and institutional integrity. Many officials have been fired or sidelined for not showing personal loyalty, even when they were fulfilling their legal or ethical duties. Such behavior undermines legislative effectiveness and stifles candor.
  • Trump’s leadership is further compromised by decision-making that is impulsive, ego-driven and entirely self-serving. The cost: collaborative, evidence-based policymaking.
  • His rhetoric typically centers on grievance and personal slights, intensifying divisions and deepening the “us v. them” narratives that preclude national healing and unity. Witness his deranged holiday tweets.
  • Dangerously, POTUS has unpretentiously normalized falsehoods. He flouts truth in order to create a narrative that feeds his monumentally narcissistic character. And while the most blatant and notorious example is that of his knowingly false claims of election fraud, his ceaseless fabrications run the gamut from trivial to treacherous – from cheating on the golf course to denying credible government statistics, making false claims about immigrants, denying climate change, characterizing white supremacists as “very fine people” and pretty much anything else that comes out of his mouth.

A textbook example of Trump’s treachery is the recent firing of BLS chief Erika McEntarfer, guilty only of being the messenger to the disappointment of the Trump economy. Concerned that the monthly jobs report reflected poorly on his performance, POTUS immediately looked to scapegoat McEntarfer, knowing his minions would be fooled by his maneuvering. Trump not only cruelly upended the life of a civil servant, but compromised the integrity of future reports. He didn’t do this because of anyone’s incompetence or deceit – he did it ONLY to escape any accountability for bad numbers and to intimidate McEntarfer’s successor.

This is the man in charge of the nuclear codes. This is the man elected to care for our hungry and indigent. This is the man charged with caring for the afflicted. This is the man who is supposed to be a custodian of our planet. This is the man some believed would deliver world peace.

This is the man destined to be an example for our children.

When to Disobey: Biblical Insights on Authority

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“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” (Romans 13:1-2 NIV)

In his letter to Christians in Rome, the Apostle Paul advocates for submission to government authorities, arguing that they are God’s servants to maintain order and justice.

Similarly, the Apostle Peter instructs the faithful to submit to rulers, thereby silencing critics and honoring God.

“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people.” (1 Peter 2:13-15)

As we see, the Bible addresses obedience to government authorities in several key passages, emphasizing a general principle of respect and submission to those in power, while also recognizing God’s ultimate authority. However…

How are we to respond in situations where those in positions of authority mandate or coerce behavior that is contrary to God’s word? This is a crucial question in light of the current administration’s assault on the poor, the sick and the sojourner – an assault that is clearly at odds with the Lord’s commands for love, charity, hospitality, patience and grace.

Blessedly, God definitively affirms that His authority – as revealed in scripture – is supreme. That is, when human authority conflicts with His word, civil disobedience is not only merited, but mandated.

“We must obey God rather than human beings!” (Acts 5:29)

These words, delivered by Peter in response to the high priest’s command to remain silent regarding culpability in the death of Jesus, clearly establish that obedience to God takes precedence when authorities contradict His word.

Such obedience was demonstrated by Daniel who continued to pray to God despite a royal ban (Daniel 6) – and by his friends Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego who refused King Nebuchadnezzar’s edict that his image was to be worshipped (Daniel 3). In both cases, they respectfully disobeyed unjust laws and accepted the consequences, putting their trust in God.

Christians are called upon to obey just laws that align with biblical commands to respect civil authorities. But when legislative mandates directly contradict God’s commands, Christians are not only permitted but obligated to respectfully disobey.

We must respond to governmental directives that promote injustice, violate human rights, subjugate the disenfranchised and demand behavior that contradicts God’s law. Christians are called on to advocate for the oppressed and to oppose corruption and injustice, especially in the face of the political status quo. This is not partisanship; this is a commitment to truth, to mercy, to righteousness, to love, and to God.

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy. (Proverbs 31:8-9)

As Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:20, as Christians “our citizenship is in heaven.” We must view all earthly powers through that lens. Loyalty to a nation or political party must never override our loyalty to Christ and His commands.

Scripture teaches us that judgment is coming for those that choose to reject the Lord’s commands for compassion and love. I believe punishment will be rendered not only to those who legislate the oppression of the vulnerable, but also those who enable, empower and encourage disobedience through their advocacy.

Woe to those who make unjust laws,
to those who issue oppressive decrees,
to deprive the poor of their rights
and withhold justice from the oppressed of my people. (Isaiah 10:1-2a)

In conclusion, those who would resist injustice and pursue righteousness must do so with humility…and in prayer. We must advocate for change with respect and love, even while strongly opposing unjust laws. Engagement should be marked by grace, not hatred, slander or division. This is what God demands of us. Our posture matters.

For the Lord is our judge,
the Lord is our lawgiver,
the Lord is our king;
it is he who will save us. (Isaiah 33:22)

False Teachings: The Hypocrisy of the Prosperity Gospel

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , , , , 2 Comments

“To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and consciences are corrupted. They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good.”

Titus 1:15-16 (NIV)

I have been unyielding and unwavering in my criticism of our current POTUS – and the Christian communities that support him. As a passionate and studious Born-Again Christian, that criticism has been entirely grounded in scripture.

These two passages from the Apostle Paul in his letter to Titus seemingly offer opportunity to rebut POTUS’ professed love of Christ and the misguided Christians that empower him. But to do so would be taking these verses out of their intended context.

In his letter, Paul is specifically referencing leaders within the church – particularly those teaching false doctrine. Applying it directly to a political leader outside the church stretches its context.

So let’s put the spotlight on those church leaders that endorse, enable and empower POTUS by leveraging their church leadership to deceive those whom they are to faithfully lead to Christ.

I preface these comments by acknowledging that God alone will judge the hearts of those to whom I have alluded. I cannot and will not do so. But I will judge their words and behaviors in the context of scripture. And I will pray that God sees in each a repentant, compassionate and faithful soul – just as I pray He sees that in me.

Here I will focus on the individual POTUS appointed to lead the White House Faith Office. This woman, void of formal theological training, is a zealous proponent of the prosperity gospel, asserting that faith and financial giving will lead to material wealth, physical health and personal success.

Most theologians believe this to be a distortion of biblical teachings. For instance, 1 Timothy 6:9-10 clearly warns of the evils of such material aspirations:

“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”

Her willingness to beguile those whom she should be leading to Christ becomes particularly evil when, instead, she leverages those relationships to enrich herself through highly questionable appeals. This past Easter season, for example, this pastor encouraged followers to give her $1,000 and receive in return “seven supernatural blessings” based on Exodus 23: God will “assign an angel to you,” “be an enemy to your enemies,” “give you prosperity,” “take sickness away from you,” “give you a long life, “bring increase and inheritance” and “give a special year of blessing.” Oh, and she’ll also send a Waterford cross.

Contrary to her implication, God is not a divine vending machine. Scripture is unambiguous that He prefers love, compassion, humility and sacrifice to cash. The Christian theology is one that worships God – not use Him.

Ironically, this pastor seems to have conveniently skipped past verse 1 of this same chapter which warns as follows…

“Do not spread false reports. Do not help a guilty person by being a malicious witness.”

… while verse 2a offers wisdom to those who may be vulnerable to dubious solicitations:

“Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong.”

In his letter to Titus, Paul is writing about false teachers and those who undermine Christian teaching through hypocrisy and moral failure. Those who claim to know God but live in disobedience to His word are the subject of his warnings, representing the greatest threat to the Christian Church in their hypocrisy.

As to why POTUS deemed this individual to be the right choice to lead the White House Faith Office, one can only speculate. I have my thoughts but leave the reader to nurture their own. However, as with many similar choices, this one was made with fealty to him in mind – not to serve the faithful in this country.

“But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them —bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping.”

2 Peter 2:1-3

Lessons from Proverbs 28: Leadership and Its Consequences

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , , , , , , , 2 Comments

My current Bible study finds me in Proverbs. The book is traditionally attributed to King Solomon and contains vast wisdom and instruction on moral behavior. Unfortunately, Solomon’s inability to adhere to his own teaching led to the rupture of his realm into two kingdoms – and initiated a downward spiral of failed kingships across Israel and Judah resulting in ceaseless wars and, ultimately, exile.

Solomon’s is a story of failed leadership. We may be nearing a time when history will repeat itself – a time in which failed leadership precipitates the division of our own country into two (or more) “kingdoms” – and triggers the fragmentation of the global order.

Much of the wisdom related to leadership – and the ignorance of failed leadership – can be found in the 28th chapter of Proverbs. This chapter contrasts the deeds of the righteous and those of the wicked, teaching that true wisdom is more than just the discerning of moral behavior; it is living it.

Let’s get specific.

“When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers,
but a ruler with discernment and knowledge maintains order.” (v. 2, NIV)

Stability is the result of wise leadership, creating peace and order. Conversely, poor leadership leads to division and chaos.

Where are we today? I lean to division and chaos. Peace and order seem but a pipedream.

“Evildoers do not understand what is right,
but those who seek the Lord understand it fully.” (v. 5)

Justice is rooted in righteousness. Just leaders are guided by the Lord’s commandments for compassion and, above all, love for others – ALL others, not just those that look like them. Evil leaders are led instead by personal interest.

I see very little compassion within this country’s current leadership. Actually, that is generous. I see NO compassion. I observe only disdain for those that do not look like, think like, or bend the knee to POTUS. The only love I see is self-love.

Better the poor whose walk is blameless
than the rich whose ways are perverse. (v. 6)

Integrity is essential to wise and effective leadership. Integrity is reflected not by wealth, but by truth and selflessness. Those preoccupied by riches will abuse their leadership to increase them.

Consider the current administration. POTUS frequently visits and promotes his own properties, receiving exorbitant  payments from political groups, foreign dignitaries, and government officials. Campaign funds have been frequently spent at those same properties. Foreign governments have booked rooms and events at Trump properties – evoking ethics complaints and violating the Emoluments clauses in the U.S. Constitution. And rather than divesting in the Trump Organization, POTUS empowers family members to leverage his brand to enrich his businesses through media, mobile services, cryptocurrencies and more. His greed obstructs his ability to care for his constituents.

“Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper,
but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” (v. 13)

I’ll admit, I don’t know if POTUS conceals sins. But those that remain unconcealed are quite prolific. Of course, we all sin…me more than most. But while I seek the Lord’s mercy, Trump remains utterly unapologetic and unrepentant in his iniquity. This reflects his immense arrogance and enormous pride. He is effectively putting his morality above God’s.

Confession and humility strengthen a leader’s character – and his ability to serve rather than be served. Ultimately, this is most disqualifying of our current POTUS as a leader of men: he believes that he – and those that share his idols and prejudices – are to be served rather than to serve.

In Proverbs 28, Solomon warns against greed, dishonesty, corruption and pride in leadership. He praises honesty, compassion, justice, generosity and accountability.

Unless one is lost in the bubble of Fox “News,” it is evident that POTUS remains ignorant of Solomon’s wisdom. It is also likely that were he acquainted with it, his pride, like that of Solomon, renders him incapable of abiding by it. Let us pray that history does not repeat itself.

As water reflects the face,
so one’s life reflects the heart. (Proverbs 27:19)

See also The Tragic Fall of King Solomon; The Righteous v. the Wicked

I Was a Republican…Until I Found Christ

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Anti-tax. Anti-welfare. Anti-immigration. Anti-affirmative action. For too much of my life, I was pretty much anti-anything that would hinder my accumulation of wealth and prestige…and give it instead to those who were too lazy to get a job and make their own way.

I was the poster boy for the GOP. Trickle-down economics? Gimme some of that. I surmised that the extra money I had in my pocket as an affluent, well-educated citizen would eventually find its way into the hands of those who couldn’t figure it out on their own. They were, after all, lucky to be living in this country rather than a foreign land where the freedoms they enjoyed as Americans were suppressed.

That is, if they indeed were Americans. More likely, many came here unlawfully to sponge off of our overly-generous welfare system.

Global warming? Who cares? Wasn’t my problem. Future generations would figure out the climate thing…if it really was a thing.

After all, it’s all about TODAY. Why worry about the mushrooming national debt incurred to fund my tax cuts? That was just another burden that could be pushed down the road to my kids and grandkids. Of course, they would be insulated by familial wealth accumulated thanks to GOP dogma.

Born Again

I’m not proud of it, but that’s a pretty good description of my disturbing perspective. I wince as I read and re-read what I have admitted. But I become physically ill in the knowledge that the horrible things I confessed to comprise the societal blueprint for our POTUS and his GOP acolytes.

I am forever thankful that the Lord, in His boundless love, led me to Him. I became a new creation – one passionate to understand His will for those of faith. He opened my eyes and my heart to that of which I was being truly “anti-:“ Anti-love. Anti-grace. Anti-mercy. I was, in essence, anti-Christ.

My awakening led me to change many things in my life, including my political affiliation. I was compelled to leave the GOP – not for the Democrats who have challenges of their own – but to re-classify as unaffiliated. Still, I could no longer be part of a political constituency whose leadership demands followers subvert the character of Jesus Christ.

Consider:

  • Jesus was compassionate and loving. He demonstrated deep care for the suffering, the marginalized, the poor, the sick and those considered outcasts (e.g., lepers, tax collectors, Samaritans). He healed the sick, fed the hungry, forgave the sinful and welcomed the sojourner.
  • Jesus was humble and obedient. In His time on earth, Jesus lived simply, serving others rather than being served. His humility was demonstrated by washing the feet of His disciples…and His obedience to God the Father by going submissively to the cross.
  • The Lord preached mercy and forgiveness, teaching that “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” He also embodied it, forgiving those who betrayed, denied and crucified Him.
  • Jesus was courageous and just in the face of religious hypocrisy, injustice and oppression, even when it put His life at risk.
  • He spoke the truth, and did so with conviction and profound wisdom.

The Greatest Commandment

In summary, Jesus’ character was defined by love, compassion, humility, integrity, mercy, justice, faithfulness and truth.

All of this is reflected in the Lord’s teaching of the greatest commandment:

“The first of all the commandments is: Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12: 29-31).

I do not know the heart of Donald Trump, nor those of his groupies. I only know what I see from him…and what I do not. For instance, I do not see love. I do not see compassion. I do not see humility, mercy or truth. What I see instead are political and social pursuits that do not simply subvert – but invert – the teaching of Christ.

I see hate rather than love; cruelty rather than compassion; narcissism rather than humility; disdain rather than mercy; lies rather than truth.

One more thing I do not see: those in Trump’s orbit speaking truth to power. And with the exception of American heroes like Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger, much of the GOP is in lock-step with their demigod.

For many years, I was among those cloaking myself in the American flag – justifying the pursuit of self-serving political and societal ambitions as patriotic and just. But just as Trump is who he is, the sycophants among the GOP are what they are. And as I came to understand, God sees the hearts, minds and souls of those that enable, empower and encourage the inversion of God’s will.

I, for one, refuse to be one of them. I pray you will as well.

Manifesting Faith Part II: The Righteous vs. The Wicked

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

“A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” (Matthew 7:18-20)

In my most recent post (The Manifestation of Faith), I spoke to how those who come to faith in Christ Jesus become more like Him – more loving, more merciful, more humble and more obedient. We also become repentant of our sin.

As God, Jesus had no need for repentance. It was and is, however, foundational to His message:

“…but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:3)

There is, of course, the flip-side of the coin – the unrepentant. Psalm 36 teaches of those who have given themselves over to sin:

1There is no fear of God before his eyes.
2For he flatters himself in his own eyes,
When he finds out his iniquity and when he hates.
3The words of his mouth are wickedness and deceit;
He has ceased to be wise and to do good.
4He devises wickedness on his bed;
He sets himself in a way that is not good;
He does not abhor evil. (Psalm 36:1-4)

In fact, the Psalms offer an appropriate framework for drawing distinctions between the righteous and the wicked. In the Psalms, the “wicked” are broadly defined as those who are ungodly, rebellious, and characterized by evil actions and attitudes. They reject God’s authority, prioritize their own desires, and pursue self-interest at the expense of others.  They are contrasted with the “righteous,” who are those faithful to God and live according to His principles.

My very favorite psalm – Psalm 1 – exemplifies this contrast, juxtaposing the blessed (righteous)  and the wicked. The former delights in God’s law and is fruitful in doing so; the other circumvents God’s word and associates with those who mock God:

1Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
2But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he meditates day and night.
3He shall be like a tree
Planted by the rivers of water,
That brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper.
4The ungodly are not so,
But are like the chaff which the wind drives away.
5Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment,
Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
6For the Lord knows the way of the righteous,
But the way of the ungodly shall perish. (Psalm 1)

A deeper dive into the contrast between those whose faith manifests in righteousness and those who neither believe or trust in God’s goodness, provision and justice, uncovers some distinctive attributes. Specifically, the “wicked” as characterized in the Psalms:

  • Demonstrate a profound self-centeredness and lack of humility, prioritizing their own ambitions rather than those of our Lord God.
  • Actively engage in acts of violence, oppression and deception against others.
  • Make the accumulation of wealth, possessions and accolades their idols rather than the pursuit of God’s will.
  • Remain rebellious and disobedient towards God, actively opposing His word and unwilling to either acknowledge or submit to His authority.
  • Refuse to acknowledge their misconduct, remaining unrepentant of their sinful behavior.

The “righteous,” of course, are not without sin. But they strive, unsuccessfully at times, to live by the will of God – to be led by the Holy Spirit. They seek not to profit at the expense of others, but to find fulfillment in His word and obedience to it. And they wait patiently for the Lord to fulfill His promised return.

In closing, we must nonetheless remain vigilant in our faith while remaining patient for:

The wicked prowl on every side,
When vileness is exalted among the sons of men. (Psalm 12:8)

Clearly, the world exalts vileness. We are witness to it every moment of every day – in our politics, our communities, our economies – even in our churches. Everywhere.

In His time, God will put down the wicked and lift up the faithful. Psalm 50 gives warning to those who exalt evil – and offers hope to the faithful.

16But to the wicked God says:
“What right have you to declare My statutes,
Or take My covenant in your mouth,
17Seeing you hate instruction
And cast My words behind you?
18When you saw a thief, you consented with him,
And have been a partaker with adulterers.
19You give your mouth to evil,
And your tongue frames deceit.
20You sit and speak against your brother;
You slander your own mother’s son.
21These things you have done, and I kept silent;
You thought that I was altogether like you;
But I will rebuke you,
And set them in order before your eyes.
22“Now consider this, you who forget God,
Lest I tear you in pieces,
And there be none to deliver:
23Whoever offers praise glorifies Me;
And to him who orders his conduct aright
I will show the salvation of God.” (Psalm 50:16-23)

When Loyalty is NOT a Virtue

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , 2 Comments

My bible study currently has me in the book of Ruth. In scripture, Ruth stands a pillar of loyalty – a woman whose profound faithfulness and selfless love is rewarded by God’s blessings of family and prominence in the lineage of King David and, thus, Christ Jesus.

The Bible emphasizes the merits of loyalty in marriage, family and friendship. Most importantly, scripture accentuates the importance of loyalty to God.

To characterize loyalty as a virtue would thus seem to be a no-brainer.

I would argue, however, true virtue manifests not in loyalty itself but in that to which one chooses to be loyal. Certainly, loyalty can be a virtue reflecting trust, commitment and a sense of responsibility – one which inspires support and sacrifice.

Conversely, loyalty can be corrosive – particularly if it manifests in allegiance to something or someone that is immoral, corrupt, abusive and/or vindictive.

There is no person alive more demanding of loyalty among his acolytes than Donald Trump. This demand, of course, is for personal loyalty to him – not to the country to which his political minions have pledged allegiance. POTUS revels in the litmus tests he accords his followers, such as their championing of the false, stolen election narrative.

The Ironies of the Ultimatum

Such demands are perfectly reflective of his narcissism, his insecurity, and his blatant self-centeredness. Needless to say, there are several fascinating ironies here.

For example, in making personal loyalty rather than competence the determinant in building his administration (see Hegseth, Gabbard, Kennedy, etc.), Trump not only weakens the country but demands disloyalty to the Constitution. His insistence that VP Mike Pence invalidate the 2020 election is but one of innumerable episodes in which Trump has demanded his truth supersede that of our nation’s laws.

Chillingly, his frequent and self-validating falsehoods demonstrate disloyalty to God. For while the rectitude of loyalty may be situational, the Lord does not compromise on truth.

Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord,
But those who deal truthfully are His delight.

Proverbs 12:22, NKJV

Ironically, loyalty is not a quality Trump is capable of reciprocating. Pence was loyal to the point of humiliation. In return for his nearly four years of groveling, POTUS offered tacit approval of a mob’s intention to “hang Mike Pence.” Needless to say, Trump’s infidelities reveal his inability to maintain loyalty within his marriage.

The Great Danger

The examples of Trump’s abuse of his office to exact retribution upon those who fail to bend the knee are profuse. Beyond Pence. Beyond Comey. Beyond Kelly, Barr, Mattis, Vindman and more. In virtually each instance, it involves Donald Trump putting himself above the people and the Constitution of the United States to satisfy his fragile ego.

This, ultimately, is the greatest danger of his presidency. A man whose ego is so brittle – one which can only be satisfied by bullying the rest of humanity into submission – should not oversee this country’s nuclear arsenal. Nor its global leadership. This is what his followers fail to comprehend.

A Final Irony

Trump, in his narcissism, believes that the declarations of loyalty by the GOP’s congressional lemmings are genuine. My guess is that such declarations are, by and large, insincere – that their true allegiance is not to POTUS but to their own relevance and power. These legislators were first-hand witnesses to the persecution of true patriots like Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger – who remained loyal not to a man, not to their careers, but to their oath to uphold the Constitution.

Actually, most were far more than indifferent witnesses – they were the persecutors themselves – condemning those with the integrity to speak truth to power – in order to gain favor with the man who could smile on their political fortunes.

Perhaps we can conclude that loyalty is a conditional virtue – one that only becomes virtuous when it is grounded in wisdom, fairness and ethical purpose. These all seem to be absent in the demands of Trump and the posturing of his followers.

The Lamp of the Body

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“The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!”

Matthew 6:22-23, NKJV

These verses, spoken by the Lord Jesus in His Sermon on the Mount, have particular relevance in today’s politically-charged culture. How we see and respond to the exceptional circumstances confronting this world reveal the integrity and faithfulness of our hearts.

As one whose eye was in need of correction for much of his adult life, I am particularly appreciative of the Lord’s teaching. My “bad eye” saw the world only as an opportunity to pursue false idols – those that satisfied my insatiable pride. Wealth. Gluttony. Lust. You get the picture.

My body was “full of darkness.” Praise God, He saw fit to perform a vision correction at a time of particular desperation. My eye – for the first time in my adult life – became a lamp that illuminated His word and His will.

A “good” eye allows light to enter the body and irradiate the heart – characterizing a faithful servant, spiritually focused and aligned with God’s truth. What truth is that? We need only revisit the Lord’s Sermon on the Mount – specifically the Beatitudes.

As I came to see, God treasures humility, empathy, repentance, mercy and a righteousness that comes only through faith. He blesses the pure in spirit – those that serve Him with an undivided heart – indifferent to the adoration of peers. He rewards the peacemakers who bring reconciliation rather than anxiety. This is evidence of a “good eye.”

“But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness.”

Unfortunately, we live in a world with poor eyesight. Too many – including countless Christians – fail to see God’s truth and blessings, obsessing instead on the temporal, the self-serving and the immoral. They witness, for example, a POTUS whose behavior is vindictive, dishonest, pompous, merciless and corrupt. Their bad eye sees not a man in need of a changed heart that will save his soul – but a redeemer to be encouraged and empowered.

Such are those deceived by darkness – selling out their righteousness while hiding behind the bluster of a demigod. I know. My demigod was my pride by which I rationalized my disobedience.

And just as I pray to God for the salvation of Donald Trump and the blessing of a new heart, I ask Him also to give those incapable of seeing their hypocrisy new eyes that will illuminate their souls. For as warned by Scottish author and minister George MacDonald:

 “One day you will be compelled to see, nay, to feel your heart as God sees it; and to know that the cankered thing which you have within you, a prey to the vilest diseases, is indeed the center of your being, your very heart.”

Are your thoughts and actions guided by God’s truth? Do you strive to emulate the love, mercy, humility and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ? If so, your eye is good and your body is full of light.

If instead you exalt and empower the behavior of those who consistently, flagrantly and unapologetically demonstrate disdain for God’s word, your heart may indeed be a “cankered thing.”

“If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!”

A Test of Faith

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , 2 Comments

In a post shared in May of 2023 (Navigating the Deception of Trump-Love: Insights on God’s Sovereignty and the Works of Darkness), I argued that Donald Trump’s ascension was the work of God – that Trump’s immorality and narcissism were so blatantly obvious and patently evil that only God could blind so many to these truths.

As one who believes in the inerrancy and infallibility of scripture, I view Romans 13:1 as confirmation:

“…there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”

Left unanswered in that prior post is the question of why? – why would He who knows all and sees all elevate this man to the highest office in the land?

I had no answer in May 2023 and chose not to speculate on God’s reasoning. Instead, I acknowledged that His ways are higher than my ways, and that I am to trust in God.

I continue to trust in His purposes. But that trust no longer precludes me from speculating as to what those purposes might be.

Scripture leads me to believe that the Lord God will test His creation. Such stalwarts of faith as Abraham, Moses, Job, Peter and Paul were often put to the test to build character and deepen their dependence on God. They passed far more often than they failed. But, as descendants of Adam – the first to fail his test – each bungled God’s trials at times. Thankfully, we have a merciful, loving God. Our failures – of which there are many – are forgiven through repentance, faith and the Lord’s work on the cross.

So, does God test us? Of course, He does. God tells us as much in scripture:

I, the Lord, search the heart,
I test the mind,
Even to give every man according to his ways,
According to the fruit of his doings. (Jeremiah 17:10)

Thus, my answer to the “why” question is this: God has elevated Donald Trump in order to validate and deepen our faith.

I suspect that my take on this subject will raise the ire of the MAGA acolytes who believe POTUS to be a demigod put on earth to single-handedly bully a misguided world into obedience with their righteous morality. I am of the belief, however, that God’s intentions are somewhat more obscure. I look to the Bible – specifically, Deuteronomy 13 for clues as to what those intentions might be.

Verses 13:1-4 are as follows (NIV):

“1If a prophet, or one who foretells by dreams, appears among you and announces to you a sign or wonder, and if the sign or wonder spoken of takes place, 2and the prophet says, “Let us follow other gods” (gods you have not known) “and let us worship them,” 3you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. The Lord your God is testing you to find out whether you love Him with all your heart and with all your soul. 4It is the Lord your God you must follow, and Him you must revere. Keep His commands and obey Him; serve Him and hold fast to Him.”

Let’s see if we can put some modern-day context to these verses.

Deuteronomy 13 is a warning against false prophets and those who would lead others into idol worship. Let’s be clear…Donald Trump considers himself a prophet, essentially proclaiming himself God’s hand to fulfill a higher purpose. This alone, however, does not make him a “false” prophet. Nor does Trump’s promise of a return to power – even when “the sign or wonder spoken of takes place.”

Rather, Trump identifies himself as a false prophet by exhorting his acolytes, “Let us follow other gods and let us worship them.”

What are those objects of Trump’s idol worship? They are visible for all the world to see: Wealth. Power. Deceit. Lust. Gluttony. Envy. Retribution. It is his unrestrained and unrepentant pursuit of these that make him false – and condemns those that encourage, enable and follow in his idol worship.

How do these harmonize with such core Christian values as love, truth, forgiveness, humility, fidelity, hospitality and righteousness? Please ask yourself this question…because God is asking it of you. Again…

“The Lord your God is testing you to find out whether you love Him with all your heart and with all your soul. 4It is the Lord your God you must follow, and Him you must revere. Keep His commands and obey Him; serve Him and hold fast to Him.”

There are consequences to disobedience – and the failure to remain steadfast in the face of enticement to idolatry. As a reminder, Jeremiah 17:10 tells us that the Lord God searches the heart and tests the mind “to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.”

Do not exalt those who would lead you to worship false idols. Do not be led by those who repudiate the Lord’s commands for love, humility, truth and justice. In doing so you not only encourage but enable hate, deceit, retribution and greed.

Related: Evangelicals & Trump: Mutual Abuse of Biblical Proportions

The Cancer of Hypocrisy in Evangelical Christianity

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , , 2 Comments

Anyone who has perused the pages of this blog knows that I am not a fan of a Donald Trump presidency. They will also know that I pray for his repentance and his salvation.

My concern with the return of DJT to the White House has little to do with democracy, policy or the direction of our country. I have put my trust in God, knowing that His ways are not my ways. And the Lord has warned us repeatedly that turbulent times are in front of us.

“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5, NIV)

Rather, my anxiety has far more to do with what Trump’s re-election says about the leadership and the integrity of the white evangelical Christian community in this country.

Donald Trump is, after all, the poster child for 2 Timothy 3:1-5. I confess that I do not know his heart. Only God does. But I can observe his behavior. What I witness is a narcissist, a lover of money, a proud, boastful and abusive man without love for his neighbor – unmerciful, slanderous, adulterous – well, you get the picture. This point cannot be argued; the evidence is prima facie. And let’s not forget that he is a twice-impeached convicted felon, has been found liable for sexual assault, faces four outstanding criminal indictments and has proudly boasted of how he impresses women by grabbing them by the p**sy.

Read that last paragraph one more time. This is the man white evangelical Christians were instrumental in returning to office. Instead of having “nothing to do with such people,” as instructed by the Apostle Paul, they have empowered, endorsed and encouraged the evil so forcefully illustrated and condemned in scripture. Wow.

I am ready for the turbulent times before us. Prayer and scripture have prepared me. I will strive to glorify God by living my faith. I will, of course, fall short and seek His mercy and grace – knowing that it is the only path to eternal life.

Unfortunately, however, many are unprepared, vulnerable to the disingenuous faith of those who seek righteousness not through God’s mercy and grace but through their noble morality. They seek to legislate their morality to coerce behavior they believe make them “good people” – removing the choice to be obedient to God out of love. In their moralism, like the Pharisees, they fail to see grace.

The vulnerable bear witness to the hypocrisy. Is it surprising that they build a wall around themselves and project an unwillingness to hear God’s word given that the messenger is so compromised? In these last days, we must encourage a willingness to hear and live the Gospel – not push those who have yet to accept Christ to the edge of the cliff through hypocrisy, selfishness and hate.

As Christians, our aspiration must never be to simply be a “good person.” Such a mindset puts the focus on our own conduct rather than on the saving grace of Lord Jesus. We are sinners in need of a savior. Our one and only goal must be to be more like Christ.

Evangelicals & Trump: Mutual Abuse of Biblical Proportions

Tom Ratkovich, , , , 4 Comments

Unless one sees the world through Trump-colored glasses, the use and abuse of the evangelical community by the former POTUS is astoundingly blatant. To those outside that community – as well as many within it – DJT’s ceaseless and unrepentant falsehoods, adulteries, invectives and narcissistic behavior suggest that he has yet to find his way to Christ. Yet his pandering to evangelicals has earned him widespread support among them.

Surely, one must question whether Trump truly subscribes to the conservative Christian agenda – or simply says what they need to hear to get their vote. Personally, I find it difficult to believe, for example, that he truly opposes abortion given his reputed carnal behaviors and the assertion by at least one of his partners that he disdains contraception.

That said, I truly wonder who is using who. While Trump obviously says what he must to get the evangelical vote, those same voters accept whatever they must for a man who promises a world that conforms to their legislative morality. They are not only enabling Trump’s moral corruption, they are encouraging it – committed to the belief that his hatefulness, spite and vengeance can be overlooked because they are the specific traits that will ensure the fulfillment of their righteous agenda.

Through their advocacy, these “Christian” supporters are selfishly discouraging DJT from displaying the mercy, grace and love commanded by Christ and essential for his salvation.

For instance, in His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” (Matthew 5:7).

James’ discerning restatement of this truth is particularly relevant here:

“Judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy.”

James 2:13

Christians understand that we are undeserving of the Lord’s mercy; yet we need it for our salvation. In His unfathomable love and grace, He is most willing to give it. But as James cautions, to get it from God we must give it to others. Without His mercy, we are fated to eternity outside the presence of the Lord – and in someplace very unpleasant.

Yet, this is precisely that to which these cheerleaders would condemn Trump. Rather than offer correction as we are instructed to do in scripture – endeavoring to save his soul by encouraging obedience to God’s word – these “Christians” douse him with kerosene on the path to the eternal fire.

At the National Prayer Breakfast on February 6, 2020, Harvard professor Arthur Brooks echoed the Lord’s command to love your enemies. Former President Donald Trump responded to Brooks’ exhortation by saying, “I don’t know if I agree with you.”

As the president’s disagreement was not with Mr. Brooks but with God, it was an appropriate opportunity for his Christian advisors to deliver suitable correction.

Instead, when asked about DJT’s comments, Dallas pastor and Trump advisor Robert Jeffress replied, “I think the president was completely right in what he said.”

Donald Trump is who he is and he will face the judgment of our just and merciful God. But those who turn him from God by enabling and encouraging his disobedience will also face judgment.

“Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.”

Matthew 18:5

Navigating the Deception of Trump-Love: Insights on God’s Sovereignty and the Works of Darkness

Tom Ratkovich, , , , 3 Comments

“Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.”

Ephesians 5:8(b)-11 (NKJV)

More often than not, the posture of our neighbors seems to defy reason. Built in to our human nature is an expectation that others should see the world as we do. It seems a rare occasion that they do so.

Continue reading “Navigating the Deception of Trump-Love: Insights on God’s Sovereignty and the Works of Darkness” →