A Christian open letter against Trump urges believers to speak out because signers see a crisis in democracy. Organizers published “A Call to Christians in a Crisis of Faith and Democracy” on Ash Wednesday, and it quickly drew hundreds of names. The statement warns of a “cruel and oppressive government,” and it says rights and freedoms are eroding. It also alleges that citizens and immigrants face demonization, disappearance, and even death. Signers argue that leaders are pushing the nation toward authoritarian and imperial rule, so Christians must respond publicly.
Letter frames white Christian nationalism as heresy
The letter denounces white Christian nationalism and calls it a heresy corrupting the church. It says the church often fails to equip members to model Jesus’ teachings. It also urges Christians to act as humanitarian and moral compasses for society. The statement emphasizes religious pluralism, but it calls Christian communities to a bolder witness in public life.
Scripture themes drive the call to action
Signers ground their appeal in God’s sovereignty over rulers and nations, and they point to Jesus as the definitive Word of God. They highlight care for the disenfranchised and oppressed, and they cited the Spirit’s call to justice and truth. The letter invokes Micah 6:8 and Joshua 24:15, and also presents Matthew 25:31–46 as Jesus’ “final test of discipleship,” saying that faith shows in how people treat the hungry, the sick, strangers, and prisoners.
Leaders, scholars, and denominations join in
The letter includes signers affiliated with groups such as the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), the Moravians, Mennonite Church USA, and the United Church of Christ. Rev. Jim Wallis, linked to Georgetown’s Center for Faith and Justice, told USA Today this moment tests discipleship and civic responsibility. Visiting scholar Matthew Taylor, seen in a promotional for CNN’s “The Rise of Christian Nationalism,” also appears in the wider debate. Historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez, featured in Rob Reiner’s 2024 film “God & Country,” said the statement helps ordinary Christians step up.
Flashpoints include immigration and protest rhetoric
Matthew 25 also fuels disagreement over government roles, and House Speaker Mike Johnson claims the passage guides individuals rather than civil authorities enforcing immigration law. Activist Shane Claiborne promoted the letter and compared an anti-ICE protest at Cities Church to Jesus cleansing the temple. Supporters see the letter as a Christian open letter against Trump that defends vulnerable neighbors and confronts distorted faith. Detractors may argue it politicizes scripture, misreads civil authority, and inflames tensions around immigration enforcement and protest.
Liberal Christian leaders condemn ‘cruel and oppressive’ US gov’t; warn of ‘white Christian nationalism’
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