History Repeating: Constantine, Trump, and the Rise of Religious Power
As the Roman Empire teetered on the edge of collapse, a leader emerged who used religion to restore unity and centralize power. That leader was Constantine. Today, many believe the United States is facing a similar turning point — fragmented, polarized, and in search of cohesion. And once again, religion appears to be the tool of choice.
Is Donald Trump playing the role of a modern-day Constantine? When you compare the trajectory of Rome under Constantine with the United States under Trump and the rise of Christian nationalism, the parallels are hard to ignore.
I. Empire in Decline
Rome: Before Constantine rose to power, the Roman Empire was splintering under internal strife, economic instability, and waning religious authority. Paganism was no longer unifying, and Christianity — though still persecuted — was gaining momentum.
America: Today, the U.S. faces deep political polarization, cultural fragmentation, and an erosion of trust in public institutions. At the same time, there’s a resurgence of evangelical Christianity and Christian nationalism that seeks to restore "traditional values."
II. The Strongman Emerges
Constantine: After civil wars and chaos, Constantine emerged as the sole ruler. His supposed conversion to Christianity, symbolized by his vision before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge ("By this sign, conquer"), marked a turning point.
Trump: Amid chaos and division, Trump rose to power with strong support from religious conservatives. Bible photo-ops and public prayers signaled alignment with Christian identity. To many, he was a protector of a crumbling moral order.
III. Religion as a Tool of Power
Constantine:
Legalized Christianity (Edict of Milan)
Declared Sunday a day of rest
Elevated the role of the bishop of Rome
Used Christianity to unify the empire
Trump / Project 2025:
Plans for a “Sabbath rest” initiative reflect similar motivations
Advocates a fusion of government and conservative Christian values
Sunday laws are seen as cultural glue
Uses faith-based identity to frame national restoration
IV. The Rise of Religious Authority
Rome: Post-Constantine, the Bishop of Rome gained significant influence. The Church mirrored imperial structures and began exerting control over secular leaders.
America: Christian leaders now hold increasing sway in politics, influencing education, law, and public policy. Faith-based legislation is on the rise. Religious voices are elevated as the conscience of the nation.
V. Fusion of Church and State
Rome:
Paganism outlawed
Christianity became the official state religion
The church's authority grew, surpassing even emperors
America (Projected):
Christianity positioned as the nation's moral foundation
Competing worldviews marginalized
Policies increasingly reflect one religious perspective
VI. Global Implications
Rome: The Papacy grew into a global religious force, crowning kings, influencing wars, and shaping nations.
America: The U.S. is already the most influential nation globally. If Christian nationalism becomes state-endorsed, it may be exported via diplomacy, media, and economics.
VII. Final Stage: The Apostate Power
Rome: The papacy transitioned from a spiritual institution to a political empire. It became a prophetic symbol of apostasy for many reformers.
America (Prophetic View):
Christian nationalism fuses with global governance
The U.S. is clearly seen as the “beast with lamb-like horns” (Revelation 13)
Sunday sacredness and religious tests become global issues
A modern-day empire driven by religion, repeating the Roman blueprint
Conclusion
What happened with Constantine and the Roman Empire may not be just a story of the past — it could be a shadow of what's unfolding today. The merging of religious fervor with political power has happened before, and if history teaches us anything, it's that such mergers can change the course of nations — and even empires.