Trump’s Divine Rhetoric: Chosen by God or Playing the Faith Card?

President Donald Trump’s recent rhetoric has taken a divine turn, raising eyebrows and sparking debate about whether he sees himself as more than just a man on a mission. Following the July 13, 2024, assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, Trump has leaned heavily into spiritual language, claiming in his November victory speech at Mar-a-Lago that "God spared my life for a reason" and doubling down during his January inauguration, stating he "was saved by God to make America great again." This shift from his earlier, more cavalier tone to one of messianic purpose has left observers wondering: does Trump believe he’s divinely anointed, or is this a calculated move to galvanize his base?

Some religious leaders and supporters have long framed Trump as a "chosen one" or even a "savior" for their causes, particularly after his political victories. Now, Trump seems to embrace this narrative himself, posting memes like one on TruthSocial depicting him striding down a dark street with the caption, "He’s on a mission from God, nothing can stop what is coming." He even shared an AI-generated image of himself as pope, a playful jab that nonetheless fuels speculation about his self-perception. Is this a man who believes he’s God-like, or is he simply wielding the ultimate trump card—a divine mandate—to justify his agenda?

Experts are divided. Some, like a former Trump consultant, suggest he genuinely believes he was spared by a higher power, not just lucky. Others, like a prominent religion and politics scholar, argue Trump’s rhetoric aligns with a "messiah complex" rooted in his hunger for power. A historian notes this isn’t a new Trump but a fuller expression of his long-standing patterns. White House communications director Steven Cheung sidestepped the question of Trump’s beliefs, saying, "As people of faith, we are all on missions from God," while emphasizing Trump’s mission to "Make America Great Again."

Whether driven by faith, opportunism, or both, Trump’s divine rhetoric is a bold move. It’s a narrative that resonates with his base, amplifies his larger-than-life persona, and keeps the world guessing about the man who claims he’s on a mission from above.