The phrase “drain the swamp” is often used in social discourse to imply removing corruption or undesirable elements from society. While the intention behind it may be to bring reform, the term itself carries a tone of division, exclusion, and destruction, which runs contrary to the teachings of Christ. Below is some food for thought. Review it, line it up with the Word, and see where the Lord leads you.
1. Christ Calls for Transformation, Not Elimination
Jesus never approached corruption or sin by wiping out people—He sought to redeem and transform them. Instead of calling for the removal of tax collectors and sinners, He ate with them, taught them, and led them to repentance (Luke 19:10). His mission was to save, not to discard.
2. Love, Not Contempt, is the Christian Way
The rhetoric behind “draining the swamp” often demonizes and dehumanizes people. But Jesus commanded us to love our enemies and pray for those who oppose us (Matthew 5:44). The Christian response to wrongdoing is not hatred or destruction but love, correction, and restoration (Galatians 6:1).
3. The Kingdom of God is Built on Grace, Not Purges
God’s way of dealing with sin is grace and sanctification, not eradication. Paul reminds us that we all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23). If God simply “drained the swamp,” none of us would stand. Instead, He offers mercy and transformation through Christ.
A Better Alternative: Cultivating the Garden
Instead of seeking to drain the swamp, a more Christlike approach is to cultivate the garden—to nurture righteousness, foster understanding, and help people grow in truth. Rather than rooting people out, we should root them in God’s love.
If Jesus were speaking today, He may not call for “draining the swamp” but for revival, renewal, and redemption. That is the way of the Kingdom.