Why Do So Many Jews Choose to Live Under an Evangelical Christian Nationalist Theocracy?

Because they are listening to the noise and not the facts!

Written by Jerry Elman, July 30, 2024

With the US presidential election less than 100 days away and Kamala Harris replacing Joe Biden on the Democratic ticket, the Jewish community finds itself embroiled in deep, often vitriol-driven debates over the presidential candidates.

Significant misinformation clouds discussions. Many Jews support the MAGA movement and the right because they perceive stronger support for Israel, often overlooking the broader implications for both America and Israel. This narrow focus on individual policies rather than the overall ideological shifts can obscure the real threat posed by the Evangelical Christian Nationalist Movement.

This movement is independent of Donald Trump; he is merely an enabler. It predates him and will continue long after him. Jews must understand what’s at stake: the end of assimilation and acceptance of Jews and their rights in America. The land our great-grandparents, grandparents, and parents cherished as a safe haven for Jews will no longer exist.

Trump built the MAGA movement as a new term to replace having to say Evangelical Christian Nationalist Theocracy. Every aspect of the MAGA movement embraces this movement.

In addition, MAGA and Conservative are not the same. Mainstream conservatives are equally ignoring the details and remain focused on the rhetoric. The MAGA movement and the Republican Party have purged all mainstream conservatives.

Historical Context and Concerns

Jewish history is replete with experiences of persecution and marginalization under various religious regimes. From the Spanish Inquisition to the pogroms of Eastern Europe, Jews have often faced discrimination and violence under theocratic rule. This historical backdrop naturally influences contemporary Jewish perspectives on any form of government that intertwines religion with state power.

Comparisons to the Nazi Rise to Power and Evangelical Christian Nationalism

Historical Context and Strategies

The Nazi Rise to Power

• Economic and Political Instability: The Nazis capitalized on the economic despair and political chaos of the Weimar Republic. The Great Depression exacerbated these issues, leading to widespread unemployment and poverty.
• Propaganda and Messaging: The Nazis used propaganda to manipulate public opinion, portraying themselves as the saviors of Germany. They employed modern media to spread their ideology and demonize their opponents.
• Exploitation of Nationalism and Identity: The Nazis promoted nationalism and racial purity, appealing to traditional German values and the desire for national rejuvenation.
• Scapegoating and Persecution: The Nazis scapegoated Jews, communists, and other minorities for Germany’s problems, using anti-Semitic and anti-communist rhetoric to unite their base and justify their actions.
• Gradual Erosion of Democracy: The Nazis gradually dismantled democratic institutions, consolidating power through legal means like the Enabling Act, which gave Hitler dictatorial powers.

Evangelical Christian Nationalist Rise to Power in America: How It Started and Where It Is Today

• Exploitation of Social and Cultural Divides: Evangelical Christian nationalists capitalize on social and cultural divides in the United States, emphasizing issues like abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and religious freedom to mobilize their base.
• Propaganda and Messaging: Similar to the Nazis, they use modern media, including social media platforms and conservative news outlets, to spread their message and shape public opinion.
• Nationalism and Religious Identity: They promote a fusion of American nationalism and Christian identity, framing their cause as a battle to preserve “American values” and religious heritage.
• Scapegoating and Persecution: Evangelical Christian nationalists often scapegoat immigrants, Jews, Muslims, Women, the LGBTQ+ community, and others portraying them as threats to the nation’s moral fabric and security.
• Gradual Erosion of Democracy: There is a push to erode democratic principles by promoting laws that favor evangelical Christian nationalist beliefs, such declaring the United States a Evangelical Christian Theocracy where the Constitution is overruled by their interpretation of the bible. This is the equivalent of nations ruled by Muslim Sharia Law, like Afghanistan and Iran, only under Christian biblical law.

Origins and Key Figures of the Evangelical Christian Nationalist Movement

The Evangelical Christian nationalist movement in the United States doesn’t have a single founder or specific starting point, as it emerged gradually over several decades through the efforts of various leaders and organizations. Its roots can be traced back to the early 20th century, with significant developments occurring in the latter half of the century. Here are some key figures and milestones:

Early 20th Century Foundations:

Fundamentalist Movement: In the early 1900s, the fundamentalist movement arose in response to modernist theology and social changes. Leaders like William Jennings Bryan and organizations such as the World Christian Fundamentals Association played significant roles in promoting a literal interpretation of the Bible and opposing modernist theology.

Post-World War II Growth:

Billy Graham: One of the most influential evangelists of the 20th century, Billy Graham helped shape modern evangelicalism. His revival meetings and media presence brought evangelical Christianity into mainstream American culture. Graham’s views on Judaism were complex; while he had a cordial relationship with many Jewish leaders, private conversations revealed that he believed in the need for Jews to convert to Christianity and was recorded making antisemitic remarks in a conversation with President Nixon, where he expressed concerns about Jewish influence in the media.

Rise of the Religious Right in the 1970s and 1980s:

• Jerry Falwell: In 1979, Jerry Falwell founded the Moral Majority, a political organization that aimed to mobilize conservative Christians to influence American politics. This marked a significant moment in the formalization of the evangelical Christian nationalist movement. Falwell was known for his controversial statements, including ones that blamed Jews and other groups for various societal problems. He also promoted Christian Zionism, which was often based on a theological framework that viewed Jews primarily through the lens of Christian eschatology, which ultimately required their conversion.
• Pat Robertson: Founder of the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) and the Christian Coalition, Robertson was instrumental in using media to spread evangelical messages and mobilize political action. Robertson has made numerous antisemitic remarks over the years, including suggestions that Jews were involved in sinister conspiracies to undermine American society and control the world economy.
• James Dobson: Founder of Focus on the Family, Dobson’s work emphasized family values and conservative social policies, furthering the political engagement of evangelicals. While not as overtly antisemitic as some of his contemporaries, Dobson’s rhetoric often included references to America as a “Christian nation” in ways that implicitly marginalized Jewish and other non-Christian identities.
• Franklin Graham: The son of Billy Graham, Franklin Graham has continued his father’s evangelical legacy but with a more overt political stance. He has made various controversial statements, including ones that have been criticized as antisemitic. For instance, he has suggested that Jewish influence is part of a broader liberal agenda undermining Christian values. His public statements often reflect a belief in the need for Jews to accept Christianity to be saved, aligning with evangelical eschatology that sees the conversion of Jews as part of the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.

Evangelical Christian Nationalists’ Use of Labels to Normalize Extremism

Evangelical Christian nationalists employ strategic labeling to shift public perception and normalize previously extreme views. This involves several tactics:

Rebranding Language

• Positive Framing: Terms like “pro-life” instead of “anti-abortion” or “religious freedom” instead of “discrimination.” Their definition of religious freedom is allowing them to legally discriminate against any group not following their rules and beliefs.
• Appealing to Patriotism: Using labels such as “American values,” “traditional family,” or “heritage” aligns their views with patriotism and American identity, fostering acceptance and legitimacy.

Demonizing Opponents

• Negative Labeling: Opponents are labeled as “anti-American,” “socialist,” “godless,” or “radical left,” creating a binary of good versus evil and positioning evangelical views as the moral high ground.
• Fear Tactics: Terms like “war on Christmas,” “threat to religious freedom,” “globalist elite,” and “cultural Marxism” evoke fear and urgency, suggesting that opposing views are a direct threat to their way of life. Additionally, phrases like “Jews will not replace us” and “New World Order” (Jewish global domination) leverage deep-seated antisemitic tropes to galvanize their base.

Anti-Jewish Labels and Tactics

• Scapegoating: Blaming Jews for societal and economic problems, often using coded language that refers to “globalist elites” or “cosmopolitans.” This tactic shifts blame away from systemic issues and directs it toward Jewish individuals and communities.
• Conspiracy Theories: Promoting the idea that Jews are part of a secretive, malevolent global cabal aiming to control world governments and economies. Terms like “Zionist Occupied Government” (ZOG) perpetuate these beliefs, presenting Jews as the hidden force behind various societal problems.
• Cultural Attack: Accusing Jews of undermining Christian values and traditions, often suggesting that Jewish influence is responsible for moral decay in society. This can manifest in claims that Jewish individuals or organizations are eroding American cultural norms and promoting liberal agendas that conflict with evangelical Christian values.
• Demonization in Media: Utilizing media platforms to spread antisemitic narratives, portraying Jews as inherently untrustworthy or as threats to national integrity. This includes amplifying antisemitic rhetoric and conspiracy theories through popular media channels, increasing their reach and influence.

Trump’s Commitment to the Evangelical Agenda

Former President Donald Trump effectively caters to evangelical Christian nationalists through a combination of rhetoric, policy decisions, and symbolic gestures, leveraging several key strategies. Trump knows exactly what he is doing, orchestrating his actions with the precision of a reality TV show producer to maximize impact and maintain control over the narrative.

Adopting Evangelical Language and Themes

• Religious Rhetoric and Christian Imagery: Trump frequently uses language that resonates with evangelical Christians. In his speeches, he references God, prayer, and biblical themes. He invokes Christian symbols and narratives, portraying himself as a defender of Christian values and religious freedom.
• Policy Alignments: Trump’s administration has implemented policies that align with evangelical priorities, such as appointing conservative judges, supporting anti-abortion legislation, and promoting religious exemptions for businesses and individuals.

Aligning with Evangelical Leaders

• Public Endorsements and Advisory Councils: Trump actively seeks and receives endorsements from prominent evangelical leaders, integrating them into his political base. He establishes evangelical advisory councils and frequently consults with these leaders on policy matters, reinforcing his commitment to their agenda.

Leveraging Media and Symbolism

• Media Strategies: Trump uses media platforms to amplify evangelical messages, often framing his policies and actions in a way that appeals to conservative Christian values. His public appearances and statements frequently incorporate religious rhetoric to resonate with his evangelical base.
• Symbolic Gestures: Trump’s symbolic gestures, such as visiting churches, participating in prayer breakfasts, and making public declarations of faith, reinforce his alignment with evangelical Christian nationalism and strengthen his appeal to this constituency.

By leveraging these strategies, Trump has effectively navigated the complex landscape of American evangelical Christian nationalism, ensuring that a second Trump administration remains aligned with the goals and values of this movement.

Project 2025 and the Threat to Secular America and Jews

Project 2025, spearheaded by conservative organizations and individuals, aims to reshape American governance to align with evangelical Christian nationalist ideals. This initiative poses a significant threat to secular America and to Jewish communities:

• Erosion of Secular Principles: Project 2025 promotes the integration of religious beliefs into governmental policies, threatening the separation of church and state. This undermines the constitutional principle of religious neutrality and opens the door to policies that favor evangelical Christian values over secular and pluralistic principles.
• Threats to Secular Governance: The initiative seeks to implement policies that embed religious doctrines into public life, potentially marginalizing non-Christian perspectives and altering the nature of American democracy. This could lead to the erosion of rights and freedoms that protect secular and minority viewpoints.
• Impact on Jewish Communities: As Project 2025 advances evangelical Christian nationalist agendas, Jewish communities may face increased marginalization and discrimination. The movement’s theological underpinnings, which include antisemitic beliefs and a view of Jews as obstacles to their religious goals, exacerbate these risks. Jews may find themselves increasingly isolated in a political climate that prioritizes evangelical Christian values over religious pluralism and tolerance.

In conclusion, the rise of evangelical Christian nationalism, propelled in recent years by figures like Donald Trump and initiatives such as Project 2025, represents a profound challenge to the secular values and democratic principles that have historically protected minority communities, including Jews in America.

Understanding these dynamics is crucial for assessing the future of Jewish life and rights in America. Jews must dig into the details and facts of the media labels, terms, and attacks made on others. The term “radical left” is an attack label. Democrats and liberals today are no different from those during the days of Franklin Roosevelt. Mainstream conservatives are relatively consistent as well. It is the extreme evangelical Christian nationalist movement that is deliberately tearing Americans apart and creating a nation of vitriol and hate.

The United States became the wealthiest and most powerful free nation on earth through compromise between both the left and right throughout its history. What will destroy America is the lack of compromise and the adoption of a theocracy, which remains hidden to most but is now rising above the water line in full view.