The Seven Deadly Sins and the 47th POTUS: Donald J. Trump

Introduction: A Historical Review of Leadership and Morality

Donald J. Trump, the 47th President of the United States, has significantly influenced American politics, particularly among Christian conservatives. His leadership, policies, and public persona have been subjects of extensive analysis and debate.

This article examines how President Trump's actions and behaviors align with the Seven Deadly Sins—Pride, Greed, Wrath, Envy, Lust, Gluttony, and Sloth—based on documented events and statements. It also explores perspectives from his Christian leadership supporters, who often defend or reinterpret these behaviors within a faith-based context. Given the rapid developments in his administration, this analysis reflects information up to February 27, 2025.

For a deeper understanding of the origins, meaning, and biblical truth behind the Seven Deadly Sins, refer to our foundational article: Seven Deadly Sins: Origins, Meaning & Biblical Truth

Note: Political landscapes evolve quickly; readers are encouraged to consult current sources for the latest information.

1. Pride (Superbia) – Excessive Self-Regard

Definition:
Pride is an excessive belief in one’s own abilities, a disproportionate sense of self-worth, and a refusal to acknowledge limitations or mistakes.

Biblical Warnings:
Proverbs 16:18 – "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."
James 4:6 – "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble."

Trump’s Public Record & Pride:
Trump is renowned for his self-promotion, frequently referring to himself as the best or most knowledgeable on a range of topics. His public statements, speeches, and social media posts often demonstrate excessive confidence, dismissing criticism and seldom acknowledging errors.

Christian Supporters' Perspective:
Supporters frame Trump’s pride as confidence necessary for strong leadership, citing a willingness to "fight back" as an essential trait in a challenging political landscape. Some interpret his boldness as divine empowerment.

2. Greed (Avaritia) – Excessive Pursuit of Wealth

Definition:
Greed is an insatiable desire for wealth, possessions, and material gain, often at the expense of others.

Biblical Warnings:
1 Timothy 6:10 – "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil."
Luke 12:15 – "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed."

Trump’s Public Record & Greed:
Trump’s career has been marked by relentless pursuit of wealth, evident in numerous business ventures and his focus on financial success as a primary measure of achievement. Allegations of unethical practices, financial fraud, and aggressive pursuit of profit at the expense of smaller businesses have often accompanied his business dealings.

Christian Supporters' Perspective:
Supporters argue Trump’s wealth and success exemplify prosperity theology, viewing material blessings as evidence of divine favor and personal achievement, rather than greed.

3. Wrath (Ira) – Anger and Vengeance

Definition:
Wrath is intense anger, fury, and the desire for revenge.

Biblical Warnings:
James 1:20 – "Human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires."
Ephesians 4:31 – "Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger."

Trump’s Public Record & Wrath:
Trump frequently displays public anger and vengeance, notably via Twitter, targeting opponents, media figures, and former allies with harsh criticism and insults.

Christian Supporters' Perspective:
Supporters often interpret Trump’s anger as justified indignation against perceived injustices or threats to American values, viewing his combative approach as strength rather than sin.

4. Envy (Invidia) – Resentment of Others' Achievements

Definition:
Envy is a feeling of discontented or resentful longing aroused by another's possessions, qualities, or luck.

Biblical Warnings:
Proverbs 14:30 – "A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones."
James 3:16 – "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder."

Trump’s Public Record & Envy:
Trump often expresses envy through criticisms of predecessors or contemporaries who achieve public acclaim or successes he desires, evidenced by consistent comparisons to President Obama and attacks on rivals.

Christian Supporters' Perspective:
Many supporters deny envy, portraying Trump’s criticism as justified critiques of past administrations or rivals who failed to serve American interests effectively.

5. Lust (Luxuria) – Uncontrolled Desire

Definition:
Lust refers to intense sexual desire, often without moral restraint.

Biblical Warnings:
Matthew 5:28 – "Anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery."

Trump’s Public Record & Lust:
Trump has faced numerous accusations of sexual misconduct, infidelity, and inappropriate behavior, including public remarks about women.

Christian Supporters' Perspective:
Supporters often dismiss allegations as politically motivated or highlight Trump’s actions on conservative social policies, believing policy outcomes outweigh personal failings.

(Gluttony & Sloth sections previously provided.)

 

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6. Gluttony (Gula) – Excess & Overindulgence

Definition:

Gluttony is the overindulgence or overconsumption of food, drink, or material excess to the point of waste. In a broader sense, it can also refer to the pursuit of luxury and extravagance without moderation.

Biblical Warnings:

• Proverbs 23:20-21 – "Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags."
• Philippians 3:19 – "Their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their minds are set on earthly things."

Trump’s Public Record & Gluttony:

• Diet & Lifestyle Choices: Trump is known for his preference for fast food, red meat, and sodas, reportedly consuming large quantities of McDonald's, KFC, and Diet Coke. His fondness for unhealthy eating habits has been widely documented, including a daily routine that often includes multiple fast-food meals.
• Lavish Spending & Material Excess: Trump has long been associated with an extravagant lifestyle, from his gold-plated penthouse in Trump Tower to his luxurious Mar-a-Lago resort. His properties and businesses cater to the ultra-wealthy, reflecting an indulgence in opulence that contrasts with the financial struggles of many of his supporters.

Christian Supporters' Perspective:

Trump’s supporters do not typically view his lifestyle as gluttonous. Many argue that his success and wealth enable him to enjoy the finer things in life, and some see his luxurious lifestyle as a symbol of the "American Dream." They often cite prosperity theology, a belief among some Christian groups that financial blessings and wealth are signs of God's favor. This perspective rationalizes his indulgence as a reward for his hard work and business acumen.

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7. Sloth (Acedia) – Avoidance of Responsibility

Definition:

Sloth is not just laziness but also spiritual apathy and neglect of one's duties. It can manifest as avoiding work, lacking motivation, or failing to take responsibility for one's actions.

Biblical Warnings:

• Proverbs 6:6-9 – "Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep?"
• 2 Thessalonians 3:10 – "For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: ‘The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.’"

Trump’s Public Record & Sloth:

• Skipping Briefings & Avoiding Governance: Reports from former White House officials indicate that Trump frequently skipped intelligence briefings or showed little interest in their content, preferring to watch television or golf instead. According to reports from his administration, staffers often condensed briefings to bullet points and images because he refused to read long reports.
• Frequent Golfing During Crises: While every president takes time off, Trump was frequently criticized for spending hundreds of days on the golf course, even during national crises. Despite criticizing Barack Obama for golfing, Trump played more golf during his presidency than any modern president.
• Failure to Take Responsibility: Trump has often refused to accept responsibility for mistakes, frequently shifting blame onto staff members, the media, or political opponents. Whether it was the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, policy failures, or election losses, he has consistently attributed problems to external forces rather than his own decisions.

Christian Supporters' Perspective:

Many of Trump's Christian supporters reject the idea that he is lazy. They argue that he is a "tireless fighter" who works long hours to defend American values. Supporters often highlight his high-energy rallies, relentless campaigning, and ability to command media attention as evidence that he is far from slothful. Others view his delegation of responsibilities as part of an executive leadership style, rather than a sign of neglecting his duties.

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Why Christians Support Trump Despite His Flaws

Many evangelical Christians support Donald J. Trump not because they view him as a model Christian, but because they believe he serves as an instrument of God's will, akin to biblical figures like King Cyrus. King Cyrus, a Persian ruler, was used by God to deliver the Israelites despite not being a follower of the God of Israel. This analogy allows supporters to reconcile Trump's personal conduct with their faith, viewing his leadership as a means to achieve divine purposes.

Additionally, many Christians prioritize policy outcomes over personal piety. They commend Trump's administration for advancing conservative agendas, such as appointing judges who oppose abortion and implementing policies that restrict LGBTQ+ rights. These actions align with their moral and religious convictions, leading them to support Trump despite reservations about his personal behavior.

This perspective is further reinforced by the belief that God can use imperfect leaders to fulfill His plans, as evidenced by various biblical narratives. Thus, for many evangelical Christians, the alignment of Trump's policies with their values justifies their support, viewing his leadership as a vessel for promoting their vision of a moral and righteous society.

For further exploration into this perspective, read our dedicated article: Trump as King Cyrus? The Christian Case for Imperfect Leadership

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Conclusion: A Christian Reflection on Leadership and Morality

This analysis does not seek to pass judgment on Trump's spiritual state but to evaluate his public actions through the lens of the Seven Deadly Sins. While his critics argue that his behaviors align with many of these sins, his supporters often interpret these same behaviors in a different light—either as strategic, necessary, or even divinely guided.

Regardless of where one stands, the discussion surrounding Trump and Christian leadership is likely to shape faith-based political movements for years to come.

💬 What do you think? Do Trump’s actions reflect the Seven Deadly Sins, or are they misunderstood within a political and religious context? Comment below and join the discussion! 🚀