His endorsement has sparked major controversy.
Former President Donald Trump’s recent endorsement of the “God Bless the USA” Bible during Holy Week has sparked a flurry of reactions, revealing a divisive intersection of religion and politics. Trump unveiled this leather-bound Bible, priced at $59.99, in a statement on Truth Social, accompanied by musician Lee Greenwood, whose patriotic anthem often resonates at Trump’s rallies.
This unique Bible amalgamates the King James Version with significant American documents like the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence, and even includes the handwritten chorus of Greenwood’s iconic song. While some conservative voices, like Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council, view Trump’s endorsement as a positive encouragement for Bible reading, others, like Andrew T. Walker from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, condemn it as an inappropriate fusion of religious and civic identity.
Progressive Christian leaders have been particularly critical, denouncing the Bible’s inclusion of political documents as a breach of the separation of church and state. Jemar Tisby, a historian and theologian, sees this blending as undermining the sanctity of the Bible and the principles of American democracy. Rev. Al Sharpton goes further, labeling Trump’s endorsement as blasphemous and offensive to genuine believers.
However, amidst the controversy, supporters like conservative commentator Todd Starnes defend Trump’s promotion, dismissing opposition from what he dubs “wokevangelicals.” They argue that promoting faith and patriotism together is commendable and essential for preserving American values. Carol M. Swain, a retired professor, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the educational value of combining biblical teachings with foundational documents.
Regarding the financial aspect, the Trump campaign clarifies that they are not profiting from the Bible’s sales, distancing themselves from any monetary gains. Additionally, Lee Greenwood emphasizes that Trump’s endorsement doesn’t imply a business partnership, asserting that both he and Trump independently collaborate with the Bible’s producer.
This controversy unfolds against the backdrop of Trump’s ongoing political endeavors, where he positions himself as a defender of Christian values amidst perceived hostility towards religion. His recent statements at the National Religious Broadcasters Convention underscore this narrative, portraying internal threats to Christianity as more concerning than external adversaries.
Ultimately, Trump’s promotion of the “God Bless the USA” Bible elicits varied responses, highlighting deep-seated divisions regarding the relationship between faith, politics, and national identity in contemporary America.
The only way our Republic can survive, is through our people being a moral people. This was the view of one of our Forefathers. When Believers back down in the public square, and think they are “righteous” in staying behind Church walls, some Other Spiritual entity rises up, and when given an inch, demands a mile, then five miles, then …grows more and more exponentially! Anyone who cannot see how this Country has degenerated to a sickening and perverse level just in the past 60 years, is Willfully ignorant! I Praise GOD for President Trump speaking out, leading us to come back to Consider GOD; OUR REDEEMER, JESUS THE ANOINTED; THE HOLY SPIRIT; AND THE Holy Scriptures as our Truth, Hope, and guide! REPENT, ye Sinners, pray for Spiritual eyes to See, and Spiritual ears to Hear.
YES! HIT NAIL ON THE HEAD!
We, the real Christian community are fighting against the very Devil himself!
Yes, we are – thank you Trump for you steadfastness!
God Bless Donald Trump.