---
title: Taiwan President Cites Biblical Metaphors in National Day Speech
url: https://www.faithfulnews.com/en/taiwan-president-cites-biblical-metaphors-in-national-day-speech
published: 2026-10-13T20:49:24+00:00
language: en
section: World Church
source: https://www.kirishin.com/2026/10/11/93278/
organizations: Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, Democratic Progressive Party, Jinan Church, Taiwan, United States, Pope Francis
publisher: FaithfulNews
---

# Taiwan President Cites Biblical Metaphors in National Day Speech

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te invoked biblical language in his October 10 National Day address, quoting Matthew 5:13-16 to frame Taiwan as a city upon a hill, salt of the earth, and light of the world. The speech, delivered at the Double Ten Festival celebration, linked these metaphors to Taiwan's democratic values, security, and innovation. Lai emphasized building a strong foundation for citizens' lives, using salt to preserve democracy and justice, and light to inspire global sharing of innovation. He concluded by pledging practical governance, defense of peace, and illumination through progress. The address drew attention due to Lai's non-Christian identity but close ties to the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, a denomination historically linked to the ruling Democratic Progressive Party.

Vice President Lai's father-in-law was a Presbyterian pastor and principal of Tainan Theological College. The speech was interpreted as an effort to align Taiwan's democratic identity with U.S. values and strengthen ties with its key ally. Presbyterian Church leaders, including Rev. Hwang Chun-sheng of the Jinan Church, publicly endorsed the vision of democracy and justice while cautioning that national glory lies in advancing freedom and justice, not in subjugating others. Hwang stressed that the Kingdom of God challenges all earthly powers and that government legitimacy must be continually verified through justice, mercy, and human rights. He rejected the notion that national greatness depends on military strength or economic figures, instead emphasizing protection for the vulnerable and equitable prosperity.

The speech sparked discussion amid complex historical context surrounding Taiwan's National Day, which commemorates the 1911 Xinhai Revolution but occurred during Japanese rule over Taiwan until 1945. Some independence advocates boycotted the ceremony, arguing the date lacks direct historical connection to Taiwan and urging the public to determine the true meaning of the holiday. The event occurred alongside unrelated religious news about Pope Francis' health and a Baptist military training exercise in Myanmar.