I recently read a document published by the Department of Homeland Security titled: Rightwing Extremism: Current Economic and Political Climate Fueling Resurgence in Radicalization and Recruitment. The document details the current "threat" in America of the resurgence of right wing extremist groups in the continental U.S.A. A right wing extremist group is usually a well armed, small group of individuals who propagate an ideology centered in nationalism or racism. Neo-nazi's, skinheads, etc.. fall into this category. The report warns that, because of the election of the first African American President and the down turn in the economy, these groups are seeking new recruits in the form of returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan who are disenheartened by the current state of the union. However, when one reads the document it is apparent that the current definition of "extremist" covers a wide variety of the U.S. population.
For example, the document indicates that the increase in the purchase of firearms and the "stockpiling" of ammunition may be indicative of the rise of right wing extremism. The increase in the purchase of firearms and ammunition can be directly linked to bills and policies that have been introduced or are about to be introduced by the current administration.
These bills such as the labeling of every bullet appear to me to be more Government infringement on our right to bear arms. Yet the Department of Homeland Security labels the rise in the sale of firearms and ammunition as a red flag indicator of the rise in right wing extremism. Therefore, according to DHS (Dept. of Homeland Security) if I buy more bullets I could easily fall under the umbrella of right wing extremism.
On pg. 4 of the document under the heading, "Economic Hardship and Extremism" you can read the following statement.
"Anti government conspiracy theories and "end times" prophecies could motivate extremist individuals and groups to stockpile food, ammunition, and weapons. The teachings also have been linked with the radicalization of domestic extremist individuals and groups in the past, such as violent Christian identity organizations and extremist members of the militia movement."
I'm not really sure what the DHS is trying to say with the reference to "end times" prophecies. I am currently teaching the book of Revelation at our church. The book has much to say on the "end times" of the current dispensation. Perhaps I'm being paranoid but it is not a far fetch for me to be labeled a right wing extremist because I am teaching what the Bible has to say about the "end times".
As a part of good planning for unexpected natural disasters such as earthquakes or hurricanes, a person will normally "stockpile" food and other items such as ammunition for hunting game etc. This to me and everyone I know is common sense.
So now, If I stockpile food and ammunition and teach the book of Revelation what am I; a man of common sense following the leadership of the Holy Spirit or a radical right wing extremist who is a member of a "violent Christian identity" organization.
Finally, the report closes with the assessment that "lone wolves and small terrorist cells" embracing violent right wing ideology are the most dangerous domestic terrorism threat in the U.S. Oh, OK, I guess all those violent Mexican drug gangs and members of Al-Queda crossing our southern border are not that big of a deal.
To read the document itself go here and click on "DHS Rightwing Extremism Report" on the center of the page.
I am a follower of Jesus Christ. He and He alone holds the destiny of this country and this world in His Awesome and Capable Hands. I have no idea how long Jesus will delay before He raptures His church Home. But I do know that the pressure on His Church will increase "as the day approaches". I do not put my trust in any government or man made institution. I put my trust in my Savior and King, Jesus Christ. And you know what...that brings me great Peace.
So cheer up, smile, and enjoy the ride.
