The pastor of a a New Jersey-based megachurch is drawing comparisons between Pontius Pilate, the Roman linked to the trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and modern-day presidential politicians, saying they're guilty of engaging in "Pilate politics" when they cater to special interests first.
"Pontius Pilate really is the perfect politician to represent this moment in American history," said
Tim Lucas, the lead pastor at Liquid Church, in his Easter message, "The Politics of Pilate." "He is cynical, he is calculating and he is under pressure from a bloodthirsty base."
Lucas says that the ancient political figure is a prime example for failed leadership, and that the long-ago Roman governor's "political compromises" forever altered history.
The Sanhedrin, which served as ancient Israel's supreme council, advocated for Christ's crucifixion, Lucas said, and Pilate knew the group wanted him dead because he mocked its rituals and undermined its authority.
The Christian Post says the minister was making a comparison between Pilate and GOP front-runner Donald Trump when he railed against politicans who cater to voters looking for someone "to blame for their diminished power, and is desperate for a strong man to restore our nation to its former power and influence and glory," but Lucas refers to no specific candidates in his address.
Lucas also blames Washington in his address for pandering to special interest groups, such as with the gun lobby or Wall Street, pointing out that a candidate, without referring to Hillary Clinton by name, was paid $675,000 for three speeches.
"How can you say you're not going to be influenced by people who are paying you that kind of money?" Lucas said.
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