Published on August 1, 2024, 12:34 am

Renowned neurosurgeon and political figure Ben Carson, known for his involvement with the Seventh-Day Adventist group—a congregation whose doctrines diverge significantly from traditional Christianity—is controversy embodied. His association with a faith group known for propagating non-mainstream prophecies and warped interpretations of the gospel can be seen as spiritually detrimental. He stirred up unfettered controversy during his 2015 presidential campaign when he declared that he received answers to his chemistry exam in a dream, attributed to God’s intervention.

Carson’s controversial image further ignited when he was offered an opportunity to speak at the annual meeting of Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), a conservative evangelical denomination. Thankfully, discerning voices within the community managed to reverse this decision following strenuous objection.

Carson continues making contentious claims—it now appears that he views both the Constitution and Bible as being divinely inspired. In a recent address delivered at the Billy Graham Library, Carson admired the founders of America for carefully studying every governmental system in history before crafting their own—an enduring model promoting freedoms for citizens. He vividly narrated how Benjamin Franklin—a distinguished statesman—urged fellow members during one fraught Constitutional convention to seek wisdom from God via collective prayer. Following this divine consultation, Carson believed they were able to draft what is now considered by him and others, like Franklin Graham, as a “God-inspired document.”

Advancing an argument claiming that not only the Bible but also the Constitution is divinely inspired undoubtedly raises eyebrows—and questions about its possible implications on renowned historical figures like Benjamin Franklin or James Madison.

While appreciating or supporting someone politically does not require embracing their personal religion, it is crucial that religious texts—such as the actual Word of God—are interpreted appropriately. Overlapping political beliefs with misinterpreted religious principles can lead to misunderstanding and distorted presentation of faith-based values.

Despite these controversies circulating around Ben Carson’s statements related to religion and politics—from his view on the divine inspiration of the Constitution to his affiliation with the Seventh-day Adventist sect—serving up trusted news with a Christian worldview remains paramount. Staying tuned in and discerning, while simultaneously seeking real news is vital, especially in our world that is constantly on the pulse of breaking news.