Preacher Argues 'Sometimes Violence Is Necessary' While Slamming DOGE for 'Attempting to Take Over This Nation' in Viral Sermon

A Tennessee preacher is gaining traction online after declaring that "sometimes violence is necessary" while condemning Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for what he called an attempt to "take over this nation," a statement that even drew a direct response from Musk himself.

Dr. Steve Caudle of Greater Second Missionary Baptist Church in Chattanooga was videotaped warning his congregation about what he believes is a looming conflict.

"And in this nation, I'm worried that we are on the verge of bloodshed," Caudle said. "This is an attempt to take us back to a day that we do not want to go and we will not go, therefore there will be conflict. I pray that the peace of God will win out and overcome the madness that is attempting to take over this nation."

The sermon, which quickly went viral, referenced DOGE's increasingly controversial actions under Musk's leadership, including attempts to access sensitive government data.

"No one likes violence, but sometimes violence is necessary," Caudle said. "When Elon Musk forces his way into the United States Treasury and threatens to steal your personal information and your Social Security check, there is a possibility of violence."

Musk responded Monday by retweeting a clip of the sermon.

"This tells me that he is trying to hide MASSIVE fraud," Musk said.

DOGE has been under fire in recent weeks following judicial rulings that have blocked its access to various federal departments. A federal judge recently ruled against DOGE's attempt to access Treasury payment systems, and student-led lawsuits have challenged its control over Education Department financial data. Meanwhile, security teams have reportedly locked Democratic lawmakers out of federal agencies under DOGE's oversight. Additionally, labor unions filed lawsuits to prevent DOGE from accessing sensitive Labor Department data.

"Jesus said in this key verse, didn't he? The kingdom of heaven suffers. What? Violence. And the who? The violent take it by force. The kingdom of God is a war zone. It is a battlefield. You did know this right?" Caudle preached.

"I saw this same message was being made in a lot of churches across the country yesterday. Who will investigate the bank accounts of each of them to find the common denominator???" One X user said.

"This is inciting violence. This is not inciting violence: 'I know that everyone here will soon be marching over to the Capitol building to peacefully and patriotically make your voices heard,'" another added in reference to the January 6 Capitol riot.