The Emerging Assassination Culture: A Christian Perspective

The notion of an "assassination culture" has emerged as a provocative topic, with claims that some on the American left are embracing violent rhetoric, particularly against political figures like President Trump. This post, written as of June 9, 2025, explores the origins, targets, and implications of this alleged trend, grounding the discussion in a Christian viewpoint. Christianity emphasizes a literal interpretation of the Bible and adherence to its timeless truths. Through this lens, we’ll consider what Scripture says about violence, authority, and how Christians should respond to such a culture.

The Claims and Biblical Foundations

In April 2025, the Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI) published a study titled "Assassination Culture: How Burning Teslas and Killing Billionaires Became a Meme Aesthetic for Political Violence." Based on a survey of over 1,200 U.S. adults, it found that 55% of self-identified left-of-center respondents believed assassinating President Trump would be at least somewhat justified. The study ties this sentiment to the December 2024 assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, pointing to a subsequent rise in violent rhetoric on social media. Critics, however, including scholars like Jack Bratich and Matthew Lyons, argue the study may exaggerate left-wing threats and lack objectivity.

From a fundamental Christian perspective, any trend toward violence or "assassination culture" is deeply concerning. The Bible is clear: God created all people in His image (Genesis 1:27), and human life is sacred. Jesus commands us to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44), a teaching that directly opposes calls for harm. Furthermore, Romans 13:1-7 instructs believers to "be subject to the governing authorities," for they are established by God. Normalizing violence against leaders, even those we oppose, contradicts this biblical mandate. Yet, Scripture also warns against "bearing false witness" (Exodus 20:16), urging Christians to approach such claims with discernment and avoid hasty judgment.

Exploring the Trend: What Does the Evidence Show?

Let’s examine the key aspects of this alleged "assassination culture" and reflect on them through Scripture:

Origins of the Rhetoric

The NCRI study pinpoints December 2024 as the starting point, linked to Brian Thompson’s assassination and the online praise that followed. By April 2025, social media posts—like one showing protesters demanding Trump’s beheading—reinforced this timeline. Biblically, this shift is troubling. Romans 12:18 urges us, "If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all." The rapid spread of violent rhetoric online signals a rejection of peace, a value Christians are called to uphold.

Targets of the Rhetoric

President Trump is the primary focus, with occasional mentions of figures like JD Vance and Elon Musk. Evidence of broader targeting within his administration remains limited. Scripture calls Christians to pray for all leaders, not just those we favor: "I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions" (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Targeting any individual with violence defies this call and dishonors God’s command to value all life.

Debating the Evidence

Critics of the NCRI study highlight potential bias, noting that broader research—like Reuters and University of Maryland studies—shows right-wing actors have historically committed more violent acts. Proverbs 18:17 cautions, "The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him." Christians must seek truth impartially, condemning all violence—left or right—as contrary to God’s will (Galatians 5:19-21).

The Role of Social Media

Posts on platforms like X, including explicit calls for Trump’s death, reveal how unmoderated spaces amplify extreme voices. James 3:5-6 likens the tongue to a fire that can spark destruction, a warning that applies to digital words today. While these posts are disturbing, they often reflect individual rants rather than organized efforts. Christians are called to counter such speech with words that "give grace to those who hear" (Ephesians 4:29).

A Biblical Analysis: Violence and Christian Duty

The idea of an "assassination culture" raises serious concerns, but a fundamental Christian response requires both truth and grace. The NCRI’s finding that 55% of left-leaning respondents justify violence against Trump is alarming if accurate—yet its critics urge caution, and broader data shows violence spans the political spectrum. Scripture offers no exceptions: "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13) applies universally, and Jesus’ call to love enemies (Matthew 5:44) leaves no room for justifying harm.

This isn’t a one-sided issue. Right-wing extremism has a documented history of violence, and the Bible condemns all hatred and division as "works of the flesh" (Galatians 5:19-21). Christians must reject partisan blind spots and address any threat to peace with consistency. Social media, meanwhile, accelerates this problem, turning reckless words into potential wildfires (James 3:5). In response, believers must model restraint and wisdom, being "slow to speak, slow to anger" (James 1:19).

A Call to Faith and Peacemaking

Since December 2024, evidence suggests a troubling rise in violent rhetoric from some left-leaning voices, particularly targeting President Trump. The NCRI study underscores this shift, though its conclusions remain contested amid broader patterns of political violence. From a fundamental Christian standpoint, any hint of an "assassination culture" is incompatible with Scripture. We are called to honor authority (Romans 13:1-7), love our neighbors (Mark 12:31), and pursue peace (Matthew 5:9).

As followers of Christ, our response must reflect His heart. We pray for our leaders—Trump included—seeking their wisdom and well-being (1 Timothy 2:1-2). We speak truth with grace (Colossians 4:6), rejecting violence and fostering dialogue. In a divided world, Christians are to be "ambassadors for Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:20), building bridges rather than fueling conflict. Let’s commit to this biblical calling, trusting God to guide us through these turbulent times.

DMMc 6-9-2025