Anything I would have to say about this would only pale in comparison to this posting from a year and a half ago:

http://takingsteps.blogspot.com/2007/01/seam-of-skin-and-scales.html

Not to take away anything from your point, I just wanted to note that the 'first major waves of immigrants' weren't required to have 'a recognizable other to blame for the nation's problems.' Before that, the natives already here made a very handy scapegoat. They were very often portrayed in public discourse as 'brutal savages' who were taking up valuable land, water, and other resources that enlightened Christians could put to better use.

Mr. Vandenburg overlooks the fact that the patriots of the Revolutionary War did not impose their views on the mother country (England); they left it. Perhaps he (and the people who share his dangerous views) should follow their example by crossing a very large ocean and founding their own country someplace else.

Freeport Illinois, that gateway to Eleroy, West Junction, Browns Mill and Woodruff Corners... Hmmm

Rockford is the nearest city of any size and this entire region of Illinois has been in economic decline for years. It borders Wisconsin, but not even a good part of that state. Believe me, I know, this was a no go zone for 25 years that I road traveled. No money, no development, nice scenery.

I am imagining that this is filler in a weekly newspaper that is primarily coupons for the local farm co op and grocery store. It is talking to people who barely have a concept of evolution or history and are grateful for the local "Dollar Store" because they do not have to get dressed up "fancy" like when they go into Rockford to the Walmart.

Hmmmmmm, the radical mono-theist Patrick Vandenburgh call to arms. No surprise there, he probably gets answers to his prayers from a Magic 8-Ball! Will these people ever learn how to embrace life and quit trying to destroy it? Good post Alex.

It's pretty disturbing that these people are openly calling for violent revolution in this country and actually getting such ideas published. I've thought for years that the religious right was an extremely dangerous political movement with a strong potential to turn to violence, comparable to European fascists in the 1930s. I hate to see myself proven right. It was nice to see this guy demolished in almost all of the comments left on his article, but a lot of people in Middle America will probably be nodding their heads as they read this.

Well, spiritual warfare..... he's only calling for prayer. The trouble some of these pastors create is tying it too close to actual warfare. Some of their flock sometimes don't even get the difference.