This Is the Work of God’: Pastor Greg Laurie Reflects on Trump’s Victory

California Pastor Greg Laurie: “God Has Placed Trump in Power for Such a Time as This”

November 15, 2024

Prominent California pastor Greg Laurie, of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, has made headlines by declaring his belief that President-elect Donald Trump’s election victory was divinely orchestrated for “such a time as this.” Laurie shared his thoughts in a video posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, drawing parallels between Trump’s leadership and the biblical story of Queen Esther.

“Americans are tired of this crazy, woke agenda we’ve been dealing with for the last four years,” Laurie stated, referencing policies he described as harmful, such as late-term abortions, gender-affirming surgeries for minors, and issues surrounding transgender participation in women’s sports and bathrooms.

Laurie likened Trump’s victory to the story of Esther, who was appointed as queen of Persia to save the Jewish people from genocide. “I believe God has placed President Trump in this position for this moment in American history,” Laurie said, noting that Trump has faced significant challenges, including two assassination attempts, and has publicly acknowledged a belief in divine intervention.

Historical Parallels and God’s Role in Governance

Laurie also drew comparisons to former President Ronald Reagan, who survived an assassination attempt in 1981 and later played a key role in ending the Cold War. “Just as Reagan credited God’s protection during his presidency, I believe Trump has been similarly spared for a purpose,” Laurie explained.

While acknowledging the importance of government, Laurie stressed that ultimate spiritual awakening cannot come from politics. “Politics and politicians will never bring a spiritual awakening to America. That is the work of God,” he said.

Concerns Over Church Freedom and First Amendment Rights

Laurie voiced concerns about potential political pressure on churches had the Democratic Party won the presidential election, particularly with Vice President Kamala Harris as president. “If the other party had won, I fear we would be facing a bleak scenario, with some of their anger directed toward Christians and the Church in particular,” Laurie stated.

He expressed gratitude for what he called a “reprieve” under a Trump presidency, emphasizing the importance of protecting First Amendment rights and ensuring churches have the freedom to teach scripture and fulfill the Great Commission.

Balancing Faith and Politics

Laurie also addressed the role of Christians in politics, highlighting the importance of prayer and accountability for elected leaders. He underscored his primary role as a pastor to represent Jesus Christ and pointed out that his participation in Trump’s recent rally in Coachella, California, was rooted in a desire to glorify God. Laurie stated that he would have prayed at a Harris rally if invited, emphasizing that his goal transcends political affiliations.

“My job as a follower of Jesus, and specifically as a pastor, is to represent Christ,” Laurie said, adding that his focus in any political setting is to point people to Jesus.

The Church and State Debate

Laurie refuted the idea that the U.S. Constitution mandates a strict separation between church and state, calling it a misinterpretation of history. “The phrase originates from a personal letter written by Thomas Jefferson, not from any founding documents,” Laurie explained. “Jefferson’s intent was to keep the government out of the Church, not to keep the Church out of government.”

A Call for Revival

Laurie concluded by calling on Christians to pray for a spiritual awakening across the nation. “Now that the election is over, as Christians, we should be praying for a mighty spiritual awakening to sweep our land,” he urged.

As the nation prepares for President-elect Trump’s inauguration in January, Laurie’s comments reflect a larger conversation about the intersection of faith and politics in shaping the country’s future.