David Domke and Kevin Coe have written an important essay on The Revealer web site comparing theological statements made by George W. Bush and other presidents.
Presidents since Franklin Roosevelt have spoken as petitioners of God, seeking blessing and guidance; this president positions himself as a prophet, issuing declarations of divine desires for the nation and world. Most fundamentally, Bush’s language suggests that he speaks not only of God and to God, but also for God. Among modern presidents, only Ronald Reagan has spoken in a similar manner -- and he did so far less frequently than has Bush.
Bush has twisted the message of the Bible into a partisan political cause where the wealthy are lifted above the poor, where war is fought to build empire, and where God’s creation is simply a resource to be plundered for the cause of amassing wealth. He has turned the teachings of Jesus around and perverted them.
Make sure you read this story.
And if you’re in the mood for more but would like it to be a little more humorous take a look at The Gospel of George Bush by Denise Giardina. Funny stuff.
