In the aftermath of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, many Believers are grappling with the role of faith and politics, particularly as it pertains to the figure of Donald Trump. For some, Trump has come to embody qualities of a modern-day Cyrus, the Persian king who, according to the biblical narrative, was used by God to fulfill divine purposes, including the restoration of Israel. However, I’d like to bring this comparison, not to lead to an overestimation of Trump’s role or an unhealthy dependence on political figures as a spiritual barometer. Instead, we are called to be vigilant in the practice of our faith, engaging in both standing for Biblical values and evangelism, using religious freedom to further the Gospel of the Kingdom. Let’s explore the scriptural parallels between Cyrus and Trump, the call to faithfulness in the political sphere, and how Believers should remain active in evangelism regardless of political or economic circumstances.
Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Achaemenid Empire, is a prominent figure in biblical history. While not a believer in the God of Israel, he played a crucial role in the fulfillment of God’s plan for the Jewish people. In the book of Isaiah, God prophesied that He would raise Cyrus to deliver the Israelites from Babylonian captivity:
“Thus says the Lord to His anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have held—To subdue nations before him and loose the armor of kings, to open before him the double doors, so that the gates will not be shut: ‘I will go before you and make the crooked places straight; I will break in pieces the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron.'” (Isaiah 45:1-2)
Despite being a Gentile ruler, Cyrus was divinely appointed to help fulfill God’s plan for Israel. His decree allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple, a major step in God’s restoration of His people. God’s sovereignty is evident in His ability to use any leader, regardless of their faith, to accomplish His purposes. This offers a key lesson for us today: God can use secular leaders and political movements to bring about His will, even if those leaders do not fully recognize or acknowledge His authority.
Despite being a pagan king, Isaiah 45:1 refers to him as God’s “anointed” to accomplish His purposes:
Cyrus allowed the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem:
“The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and He has charged me to build Him a house at Jerusalem” (Ezra 1:2).
Cyrus was not a believer in Yahweh in the covenantal sense, yet God used him to fulfill His promises. This example underscores a critical truth: God can use anyone—believer or not—for His purposes… Let’s remember that.
Many Believers have drawn comparisons between Donald Trump and Cyrus, particularly because of his outspoken support for Israel and his actions that seemed to favor religious freedoms. Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and his relocation of the U.S. Embassy to the city resonated deeply with many who saw it as fulfilling a divine prophecy.
However, we must resist the temptation to elevate any political figure to the status of a spiritual icon. While God used Cyrus to fulfill His purposes for Israel, Cyrus himself was not Israel’s redeemer. Similarly, Trump, though playing a significant role in religious freedom during his time in office, is not the ultimate savior of Americans; unfortunately – many do act as if this is true.
The prophet Daniel declares something interesting in Chapter 2:20-22 – “May the name of God be blessed forever and ever, For wisdom and power belong to Him. It is He who changes the times and the periods; He removes kings and appoints kings; He gives wisdom to wise men,
And knowledge to people of understanding. It is He who reveals the profound and hidden things. He knows what is in the darkness…”
While Trump’s leadership in certain areas was seen as beneficial to Christian values, the real responsibility lies with those who call upon the Name of Yeshua/Jesus to maintain moral vigilance. We are urged to be the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-16), influencing society with godly values regardless of the political landscape.
The apostle Paul provides guidance on this in his letters. In Romans 13:1-7, Paul emphasizes the importance of the submission to governing authorities. He acknowledges the role of government in maintaining order but also reminds us that God’s ultimate authority transcends earthly rulers. Paul urges Believers to “render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor” (Romans 13:7). This passage highlights the role of always acting with integrity and responsibility in all areas of life, including politics.
Furthermore, we are called to be proactive in shaping society by standing for justice, mercy, and truth. In Micah 6:8, the prophet declares what the Lord requires of His people: “He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” This verse outlines the moral framework that should guide Christian engagement in the world, including in the political realm.
While political involvement is important, none of us should ever lose sight of the primary mission: the proclamation of the Gospel. Jesus’ Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 calls believers to make disciples of all nations. In an era of increasing religious freedom, particularly in the aftermath of Trump’s presidency, we are presented with a unique opportunity to share the Gospel. Religious freedom is a gift that should not be taken for granted, and we all need to prioritize and use it to evangelize and advance the Kingdom of God.
In Acts 1:8, He promised the Holy Spirit would empower His followers to be His witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” we are called to spread the message of salvation, regardless of the political climate. It is a temptation to become complacent when political winds seem favorable, but it is imperative to remain focused on the Great Commission. Whether in times of political stability or turbulence, the need for evangelism remains the same. As Paul writes in 2 Timothy 4:2, “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.”
Even when economic or political situations seem uncertain, we must not allow these factors to hinder our faithfulness to the Gospel. The Church has always flourished in both times of prosperity and persecution, and God can use any circumstance for His glory. In Philippians 4:11-13, Paul speaks of being content in all situations, whether in abundance or need. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This passage underscores the importance of relying on God’s strength and not on external circumstances.
Throughout history, the Church has been faced with political turmoil, economic hardship, and social upheaval. In many instances, the most significant advances in the Kingdom of God have occurred during times of adversity. The early Christian church, for example, grew rapidly during periods of Roman persecution, when believers were forced to meet in secret and endure hardship. Despite these challenges, the Gospel spread to all corners of the Roman Empire. This growth was not dependent on political leaders but on the faithful obedience of followers.
The danger for Believers is becoming complacent, mistaking political victories for spiritual revival. Scripture warns against putting trust in human leaders. Psalm 146:3 reminds us: “Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation.”
While God may use leaders to accomplish His will, salvation comes only through Jesus Christ. Believers must resist the temptation to equate political outcomes with the ultimate fulfillment of God’s kingdom. The Gospel’s power is not tied to economic prosperity, favorable policies, or national security. Let’s remember the early church thrived under Roman persecution, not political favor. Paul’s letters to the Philippians and Thessalonians often emphasize joy and faithfulness in the face of adversity (Philippians 1:12-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). The growth of those who came to faith in the Messiah in these challenging conditions serves as a reminder that political freedom is not a prerequisite for evangelism.
In more recent history, the church in Eastern Europe faced intense persecution under Soviet rule. Believers in countries like Russia, Poland, and Hungary remained steadfast in their faith despite being heavily restricted by government authorities. They continued to evangelize, plant churches, and stand for moral truth, even when it meant facing imprisonment or worse. The fall of communism in the late 20th century and the subsequent religious revival in these countries was not the result of political leaders but of the faithful perseverance of those who chose to answer the call – and who did not let their circumstances dictate their commitment to Christ.
We all should take a measured and thoughtful approach to political engagement, understanding that while political leaders like Donald Trump may play a significant role in promoting religious freedom, they are not the source of salvation. Trump, like Cyrus, was a leader whom God used to advance His purposes, but ultimate hope and redemption are found only in our relationship with our Savior. With a Biblical illiteracy rate rising amongst Christians, (only 3-4% of us reading our Bibles regularly) we are more and more trusting the pulpits alone – and in the wake of the turmoil in the American church – we are returning to a de facto papal system of spoon-feeding congregants instead of the family gathering of Believers being the culmination of the enrichment of what is happening in the home, and our daily outward boldness and demonstration of the Gospel in every area of life. The Bible reminds us that our citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20), and our primary allegiance is to God’s Kingdom… so can we all please place in perspective that November 5th – was an outpouring of God’s lovingkindness and mercy, another chance to repent – turn around – and let’s return thanks to Him not by words alone, but by fulfilling His last commandment on earth to occupy and be His voice and light to the world? Can we learn from William Wilberforce who stood strong in Great Britain to end slavery and Dietrich Bonhoeffer stood against the moral compromise of the church and called for a return to biblical truth, even at the cost of his life?
As we navigate these times, let us heed the example of the early Church and Believers throughout history who remained faithful to their mission despite political challenges. Let us be diligent in sharing the Gospel and making disciples, always remembering that God is sovereign over all things. Whether the political climate is favorable or hostile, we are called to live out our faith boldly, proclaiming the hope found only in Yeshua/Jesus our Messiah.
“But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20).
