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Baptist Message

"Helping Louisiana Baptists Impact the World For Christ"

Historic evangelical vote rebuffs #Never Trump leaders

By Will Hall ALEXANDRIA – In a stunning repudiation of a corps of anti-Trump evangelical leaders, evangelical voters overwhelmingly supported Donald Trump in the 2016 presidential election, with 81 percent of white evangelicals voting for him and only 16 percent pulling the lever for Hillary Clinton. But Trump also won 58 percent of all Protestant voters and 52 percent of all Catholics. Even conservative women backed Trump, with 78 percent voting for him and only 18 percent backing Clinton. Now, a recently released study by the Family Research Council, a Christian public policy ministry based in Washington, D.C., indicates the abortion issue and concern about the political leanings of the courts were key factors in why evangelicals voted for Trump, thus rejecting #NeverTrump evangelical leaders. OUT OF TOUCH Leading up to Nov. 8, the mainstream media had used the #NeverTrump effort by a segment of the religious establishment to suggest it revealed a deep division among the evangelical faithful. The New York Times ran a headline Oct. 17, only three weeks out from the election, claiming “Donald Trump Reveals Evangelical Rifts That Could Shape Politics For Years.” In the article the flagship of the mainstream … [Read more...]

MARTHA BAILEY: Are you openhanded or tightfisted?

By Martha Bailey I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and enjoyed lots of quality time with your family and friends. While many people will have a “holly jolly Christmas,” the holidays for many are something to be dreaded. They are hurting and lonely and can’t wait for January 2 when things return to normal–whatever that is. Waylon and I had a very quiet day Thursday because it worked out best for our family to celebrate Thanksgiving on Friday. Our parents made us miserable on holidays because of their unrealistic expectations so I vowed not to do that to my children.  So, Thursday was a football day and an extra prep day. (What woman can’t use an extra day to get ready, right?) All throughout the day a friend kept popping into my mind. Finally, around 9 Thursday evening I decided to email her.  (I’ve learned through the years to recognize that repetitive thoughts like these are Holy Spirit-driven.  Far too many times I have dismissed these thoughts, but this time I didn’t).  This is what I sent: Shea, You have come to my mind at least four times today. Each time I thought about how tough the holidays are for you. Just wanted you to know I’ve prayed for you. The next day I received this reply: Thank you … [Read more...]