Heroes of Lawlessness: Why the Left Celebrates Men Like Luigi Mangione
The dangerous shift from justice to ideology — and how we can stand against it.
In every generation, society faces a troubling reality — when lawlessness is not only tolerated but celebrated. Today, we see a growing trend where those who break the law are lifted up as icons by certain political and ideological factions. The case of Luigi Mangione is a striking example of this disturbing phenomenon.
Mangione, a man with a history of brazen defiance of the law, has recently been lauded by segments of the political left. His actions, which by any objective standard should be condemned, are being reframed as acts of courage, resistance, or "speaking truth to power." This trend is not new — history is filled with moments when entire cultures exchanged morality for ideology, calling evil good and good evil.
The Bible provides clear warning about this inversion of truth. Isaiah 5:20 says:
"Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!"
Mangione's elevation as a hero is not merely a political event; it is a spiritual crisis.
When lawless men become symbols of virtue, it signals a deep erosion of moral clarity.
It tells us that the foundation of justice is no longer rooted in absolute truth, but in the shifting sands of ideology and emotion.
The Pattern of Lawlessness
The rise of Mangione fits a recognizable pattern throughout history:
Defiance of Authority – Lawless individuals challenge legitimate authority, often cloaking their rebellion as a noble cause.
Media Amplification – Complicit or biased media platforms frame their defiance as heroism, creating a false narrative that resonates emotionally with the masses.
Cultural Embrace – Political groups and public figures begin to openly celebrate and protect the lawbreaker, making them untouchable.
Institutional Breakdown – Law enforcement, courts, and government agencies bend to political pressure, further eroding societal trust.
This is precisely what Paul warned about in 2 Thessalonians 2:7:
"For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only he who now restrains it will do so until he is out of the way."
When lawlessness is celebrated, it does not stay isolated — it spreads. It emboldens others to follow suit, destabilizing the very structures that uphold peace and justice.
Why the Left Embraces the Lawless
The political left, in many modern contexts, thrives on narratives of victimhood and revolution. Figures like Mangione become useful symbols:
They represent resistance to "the system," even if that resistance involves crime or violence.
They allow politicians and activists to rally support by framing the lawless as martyrs for a greater cause.
They serve as tools to delegitimize opposing voices, creating an "us versus them" dynamic that is emotionally powerful and politically effective.
But in embracing such figures, the left undermines its own credibility and tears at the moral fabric of society.
A culture that rewards lawlessness inevitably breeds chaos.
A Biblical Response
As Christians, we must resist the temptation to respond with equal hatred or to simply retreat in despair. Scripture calls us to a higher standard. Our response must include:
Speaking Truth Boldly
We cannot remain silent when evil is called good. Just as John the Baptist confronted Herod (Luke 3:19-20), we must confront lies with truth — even when it's unpopular or dangerous.
This does not mean engaging in fruitless online arguments or shouting matches, but articulating clear, principled, biblical truth in our families, churches, workplaces, and communities.
Refusing to Glorify Violence
It is tempting to fight fire with fire. But Paul reminds us in Romans 12:21:
"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
Christians are not to glorify lawlessness on either side. We are to be people of justice and righteousness, rejecting the extremes of political violence and mob mentality.
Calling for Repentance and Accountability
Mangione and others like him need accountability — not adoration. The church’s role is to call individuals and institutions back to repentance. Proverbs 28:13 says:
"Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy."
True justice is not about excusing wrongdoing because it fits a political narrative. It is about confronting sin and offering the hope of redemption through Christ.
Anchoring Our Hope in Christ
When society celebrates lawlessness, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. But our ultimate hope is not in political outcomes or cultural trends. Jesus warned us in John 16:33:
"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Our calling is to remain faithful, even as the world grows darker. Christ is still sovereign, and His justice will ultimately prevail.
Conclusion
The celebration of Luigi Mangione by the political left is a symptom of a much deeper spiritual sickness. It reflects a society that has rejected God’s law and embraced rebellion as virtue. History shows that such a path always ends in destruction.
As Christians, we must not be swept up in the chaos. We are called to be salt and light — to preserve truth, expose darkness, and point to the only true source of hope: Jesus Christ.
The world may cheer for the lawless today, but one day, every knee will bow before the righteous Judge. Until then, let us stand firm, speak truth, and live as ambassadors of a Kingdom that cannot be shaken.