Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and a self-proclaimed born-again Christian, has left behind a legacy of political, humanitarian, and religious contributions. Yet, his beliefs and actions have sparked a significant debate among evangelicals about the authenticity of his Christian faith. This article explores Carter’s faith claims and evaluates them against biblical teachings.
The First “Born-Again” President
Jimmy Carter was the first U.S. president to identify as a born-again Christian publicly. Upon his passing at the end of 2024, tributes poured in from across the political and religious spectrum. Many praised him for his humanitarian work and his devotion to faith. For example, former Vice President Mike Pence described Carter as someone who “lived out his Christian faith and values with integrity and devotion.”
However, some of Carter’s beliefs and actions raised questions about his adherence to core Christian doctrines. A closer examination reveals discrepancies between his self-proclaimed faith and biblical principles.
Carter’s Views on Marriage and Sexuality
Carter was a vocal supporter of same-sex marriage, stating that Jesus would approve of “any sort of love affair if it was honest and sincere.” This position, however, directly contradicts biblical teachings. Jesus affirmed in Matthew 19:4-6 that marriage is a union between one man and one woman. Additionally, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 explicitly states that homosexuals will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Carter’s advocacy for same-sex marriage went beyond rhetoric. He was the first U.S. president to welcome homosexual activists to the White House, placing him at the forefront of this controversial issue. Such actions led many to question how someone who claimed to follow Christ could so openly oppose biblical teachings on marriage.
Abortion and Life Issues
While Carter personally expressed disapproval of abortion, he was unwilling to advocate for overturning Roe v. Wade. His nuanced stance—personally opposing abortion but not acting against its legality—parallels saying, “I’m personally against slavery, but I wouldn’t stop others from owning slaves.”
Biblically, abortion is the taking of innocent life, a clear violation of God’s commandment against murder (Exodus 20:13). Carter’s unwillingness to fully oppose abortion undermines the claim that he upheld Christian principles.
Denial of Biblical Authority
Carter’s interpretation of Genesis and other foundational biblical accounts also drew criticism. He denied the literal creation account and the historicity of events such as Noah’s Ark. Such skepticism toward Scripture’s inerrancy raises questions about his understanding of and commitment to biblical truth.
Ken Ham, founder of Answers in Genesis, recounted a personal conversation with Carter in which the former president expressed disbelief in a literal understanding of Genesis. This departure from foundational Christian doctrine further complicates Carter’s claim to a biblical faith.
The Exclusivity of Christ
One of the most significant theological issues was Carter’s denial of Christ’s exclusivity for salvation. In interviews, Carter suggested that people who don’t know Christ could still achieve salvation, a stance directly contradicted by John 14:6, where Jesus states, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
This rejection of the gospel’s exclusivity is not a minor theological error. It strikes at the heart of Christianity and undermines the necessity of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
Carter’s Favorite Song: “Imagine”
Another revealing aspect of Carter’s beliefs was his admiration for John Lennon’s song, Imagine. The lyrics—which envision a world without heaven, hell, or religion—are antithetical to Christian doctrine. Carter’s public endorsement of this song, even requesting it to be performed at his funeral, further demonstrated a troubling disconnect between his faith claims and biblical truth.
Evangelical Responses
Despite these significant theological discrepancies, some evangelical leaders hoped for Carter’s salvation. Al Mohler, a prominent theological conservative, cautiously remarked, “I have to hope and pray.” Similarly, Bart Barber, a Southern Baptist pastor, acknowledged Carter’s errors but expressed optimism about his sincerity.
Yet, this leniency has led to a broader dilution of what it means to be a Christian. If one can reject the core doctrines of the faith and still be considered a Christian, the term itself loses its meaning.
Biblical Criteria for Authentic Faith
Scripture provides clear guidance for discerning genuine faith. Jesus warns in Matthew 7:21-23 that not everyone who professes His name will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of His Father. Furthermore, 1 John 2:3-4 states, “By this we know that we have come to know Him if we keep His commandments. The one who says, ‘I have come to know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.”
Based on these criteria, Carter’s actions and beliefs suggest a departure from the gospel of Jesus Christ. His advocacy for positions contrary to Scripture and his denial of foundational truths raise serious doubts about the authenticity of his professed faith.
Conclusion: A Sobering Reflection
Jimmy Carter’s legacy is one of complexity—a man celebrated for his humanitarian efforts yet criticized for theological compromises. While it is not for us to judge the state of his soul, it is vital to uphold the standards of biblical truth and call for discernment in assessing faith claims.
Carter’s story serves as a reminder that genuine Christianity involves more than professing faith; it requires alignment with God’s Word. As Jesus said in Luke 9:26, “For whoever is ashamed of me and my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory.”
Let us strive to live lives that reflect a steadfast and unwavering commitment to Christ, standing firm on the authority of Scripture and the exclusivity of the gospel.