At a recent conference in Franklin, Tennessee, organized by a Nevada‑based publisher and linked to Idaho pastor Doug Wilson, attendees were handed a book that argues local officials—described as “chosen by God”—could legally authorize the killing of doctors who perform abortions. A second volume, also distributed at similar events, defends a notorious anti‑abortion terrorist and claims that Christian‑motivated violence is both justified and commanded.
Extremist rhetoric under fire
Reverend Katey Zeh, an ordained Baptist minister and chief executive officer of the non‑profit Religious Community for Reproductive Choice, called the material “extremely disturbing.” She warned that framing murder as a divine mandate threatens both public safety and the moral witness of the Christian faith.
The books, which have been circulating through networks that promote Christian nationalism, present a theological justification for what they term “righteous violence” against providers of abortions. They suggest that officials who enforce anti‑abortion laws are acting on a higher authority and can therefore sanction lethal force.
Background on the conferences
The Franklin gathering was sponsored in part by a Nevada publishing company that has previously produced literature for Christian nationalist audiences. The event featured speakers aligned with Pastor Doug Wilson, who serves as a spiritual adviser to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. While the conference promoted traditional family values and religious liberty, the inclusion of these extremist publications has drawn sharp criticism from both religious leaders and civil‑rights advocates.
Critics of the books include a coalition of faith‑based organizations that argue such rhetoric misrepresents Christian teachings. They emphasize that the Bible calls for love, compassion, and the sanctity of all human life, and that any call to violence contradicts core Christian principles.
Legal and public‑policy implications
Legal experts note that advocating for the murder of abortion providers could run afoul of federal and state laws against incitement to violence. While the First Amendment protects free speech, it does not shield calls for illegal action. Law‑enforcement agencies are monitoring the distribution of these materials, and some have indicated that they will investigate any threats that arise from such publications.
State officials in Tennessee have not yet commented on the specific books, but the governor’s office reiterated its commitment to protecting all citizens, including medical professionals, from threats and intimidation.
Community response
Local churches and community groups in the Franklin area have organized forums to discuss the dangers of extremist ideology masquerading as faith‑based activism. Organizers stress the importance of distinguishing between legitimate pro‑life advocacy—focused on protecting the unborn child through lawful means—and violent extremism that endangers lives and undermines the rule of law.
For more information, readers can visit ConfrontTheHate.com, which hosts firsthand accounts and resources for confronting hate‑filled rhetoric within religious communities.
Original reporting: NewsChannel 5 WTVF (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
