(OPINION) In a recent sermon that raised eyebrows and sparked controversy, Dr. Steve Caudle, a Baptist pastor, appeared to endorse the use of violence as a means to counteract what he perceives as harmful actions by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, particularly in relation to the Department of Government Efficiency.
This alarming statement was made during a sermon at the Greater Second Missionary Baptist Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee, last Sunday.
While standing before a modest congregation, Dr. Caudle urged his audience to confront the challenges facing the nation with an alarming perspective.
He proclaimed, “Sometimes the devil will act so ugly that you have no other choice but to get violent and fight.”
This declaration seemed to resonate with the sentiments of fear and frustration prevalent among his congregants regarding social welfare programs.
Expressing his deep concerns about the state of the nation, Caudle warned, “I am worried that we are on the verge of bloodshed.
This is an attempt to take us back to a day that we do not want to go, and we will not go.”
His remarks suggested an impending conflict, fueled by a perceived threat to essential social services, including Social Security benefits.
The pastor specifically noted that Musk’s actions could provoke the public’s wrath, asserting, “Therefore, there will be conflict.”
He referenced the billionaire’s influence, claiming that if Musk attempted to undermine Social Security or invade the sanctity of personal information, it might lead to violent responses from the people.
“I pray that the peace of God will prevail and overcome the madness that is attempting to take over this nation,” Caudle continued, expressing a desire for divine intervention amid the chaos he described.
Yet, he emphasized, “No one likes violence, but sometimes violence is necessary.”
During his sermon, Dr. Caudle explicitly linked Musk’s actions to a potential uprising, stating, “When Elon Musk forces his way into the United States Treasury and threatens to steal your personal information and your Social Security check, there is a possibility of violence.”
His use of religious rhetoric combined with calls for unrest has drawn considerable attention.
The sermon was captured on video and rapidly spread across social media platforms, attracting both support and condemnation.
Further footage from the service revealed varying camera angles of the event, showing an audience of approximately two dozen individuals present at the church, listening intently as the pastor articulated his controversial views.
