What defines populism and a populist?

Definition and Scope

Populism, in its most basic sense, is a political or social approach that seeks to represent the interests, aspirations, and values of the common people—often positioning them in contrast to an elite or establishment. A “populist” is typically a leader, movement, or ideology that claims to speak on behalf of the populace at large, rallying them around grievances or goals the leader identifies as common to the majority.

In contemporary settings, populism can manifest across the political spectrum. It is not a monolith but is marked by a unifying theme of appealing to “ordinary” individuals who feel their voices or concerns have been overlooked. From a scripturally informed viewpoint, concepts of crowd influence, shared identity, and leadership are essential to understanding how believers might discern or respond to populist claims.

Biblical Insights on Crowds and Leaders

Throughout Scripture, there are varied examples of popular movements or leaders gaining favor with the masses. Sometimes, the crowd’s favor aligns with righteousness, and other times it does not.

1. Moments of Unanimous Affirmation: In the Old Testament, we see instances when the people recognized the hand of God in choosing a leader. For example, when David was anointed king, “All the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron... and they anointed David king over Israel” (2 Samuel 5:3). The people’s support here aligned with God’s choice.

2. Moments of Fluctuating Opinion: Crowds can be fickle. In the New Testament, many who shouted “Hosanna!” to welcome Jesus into Jerusalem later cried “Crucify Him!” (Matthew 21:9; 27:22–23). This jarring shift highlights that popular opinion can turn quickly and is not necessarily an indicator of truth or righteousness.

3. Divine versus Popular Will: Scripture repeatedly cautions against uncritically following the crowd. In Exodus 23:2, the instruction is: “You shall not follow the crowd in wrongdoing.” This warning signals the need for discernment, because the consensus of a majority does not always align with the will of God.

Characteristics of Populism

Populism can take many forms. In broad terms, leaders or movements that exhibit the following traits often fall under the populist umbrella:

1. Appeal to the “Common Person”

They actively frame themselves as champions of ordinary people, highlighting a perceived moral or social divide between “the people” and an elite group.

2. Polarization between “Us” and “Them”

Populist rhetoric can amplify societal divisions, portraying complex social, economic, or moral issues as a direct conflict between the average citizen and an out-of-touch establishment.

3. Strong Personal Leadership

Although populist movements emphasize grassroots support, a single dynamic figure often takes center stage. Charismatic speech and rhetorical strategies galvanize widespread action.

4. Promise of Restoration or Rescue

Many populists highlight the need to return to an idealized past or to recover “lost” values, using language that resonates strongly with collective memory or identity.

A Biblical Perspective on Popular Movement

From a biblical standpoint, neither popularity nor unpopularity inherently guarantees moral correctness. Ideas or leaders beloved by the majority could be just or unjust. For example:

1. The Dangers of Manipulated Crowds

In Acts 19:23–34, a riot stirred up by silversmiths in Ephesus incited huge crowds against the apostle Paul. Their fervor was fueled by economic fears and misunderstanding rather than conviction of truth. This showcases how swiftly a crowd can be swayed.

2. Godly Leadership and Humility

Repeatedly, Scripture values the humble and the servant-hearted. True leadership involves self-sacrifice and a willingness to serve (cf. Matthew 20:25–28). Leaders who appeal to the crowds must guard against pride and manipulative methods, ensuring they act in integrity before God and people.

3. Discernment and Wisdom

Believers are called to be discerning (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:21) and to weigh popular claims against immutable truth. Popular sentiment should be evaluated alongside scriptural principles of justice, compassion, and godliness.

Potential Positive Aspects

1. Addressing Legitimate Grievances

Throughout history, certain populist movements have drawn attention to injustices ignored by the ruling class. Advocates for righteous causes, such as the defense of the oppressed, can find echoes in biblical teachings where God’s heart is for the vulnerable (cf. Psalm 82:3–4).

2. Reform and Correction

Grassroots calls for genuine reform can be aligned with biblical calls to repentance and turning away from corruption. Nehemiah, for instance, listened to the people’s outcry regarding economic oppression (Nehemiah 5:1–13) and swiftly instituted reform, demonstrating a responsiveness to legitimate majority concerns.

Potential Negative Aspects

1. Mob Mentality

The example of Pilate giving in to the crowd (Luke 23:23–24) underscores how the loudest public pressure may lead authorities or communities into grievous error. A purely populist stance that lacks moral grounding can quickly become oppressive or dangerous.

2. Oversimplification of Complex Issues

Populist rhetoric can reduce multifaceted problems to simplistic slogans or scapegoating. Yet biblical wisdom commends measured, humble reflection, recognizing that “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge” (Proverbs 18:15).

Balance between People’s Voice and God’s Truth

Scripture shows that God values each person, and many biblical narratives emphasize communal accountability and justice. However, it also upholds Divine authority as supreme. The voice of the people, while important, must be measured against scriptural truth:

1. Christ-Centered Evaluation

In evaluating any movement or leader, believers look to whether it aligns with the character and commands of Christ. Love of neighbor, pursuit of justice and mercy, and unwavering adherence to truth are key filters (cf. Micah 6:8).

2. Humility before the Ultimate Ruler

Where populism exalts human desires above all, Scripture reminds us that God’s counsel stands above human authority (Proverbs 19:21). Being shaped by divine truth offers a safeguard against errant popular opinion.

Practical Reflection and Application

1. Community Engagement

Voices within a church or community may reflect genuine concerns. Wise discernment asks: “Are these concerns rooted in biblical justice and truth, or do they stem from fear, pride, or reactionary impulses?”

2. Prayerful Discernment

James 1:5 exhorts believers: “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.” Before endorsing or rejecting populist movements, prayerful consultation of Scripture and godly counsel is crucial.

3. Maintaining Unity in Diversity

Genuine unity in the body of believers does not require uniform agreement on political ideology. Rather, it requires common submission to God and love for one another (Ephesians 4:1–3). Championing the concerns of everyday people can be admirable, but it must not divide the body of Christ over earthly power plays.

Conclusion

Populism centers on appealing to and mobilizing public sentiment, frequently setting “the people” against the elite. A populist, therefore, is anyone or any movement that captures this sentiment and claims to fight on behalf of the majority’s values and interests.

Within a biblical framework, popularity alone does not confirm righteousness. Scripture consistently affirms that God’s revelations remain the ultimate standard by which leaders, movements, and ideas are tested. While legitimate concerns may be raised by popular movements—particularly regarding justice or the protection of the needy—believers are reminded to measure any such call against the enduring counsel of God’s Word. This approach ensures that the truth and principles reflected in Scripture maintain primacy over ever-shifting public opinion.