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June 25, 2025 (6 months to Christmas)
When Israel is in the crosshairs of the world’s attention, I am often asked, “How should we think about Israel?” In many cases, people ask me this in relation to our foreign policy as a country and how should believers think about this?
“As regards the gospel, they are enemies of God for your sake. But as regards election, they are beloved for the sake of their forefathers.” Romans 11:28
There are more people who live in Michigan than live in Israel. So, why is the little country of Israel the ongoing focal point of the world and why is it so controversial and so hated? Simply put; the doctrine of election. God chose Israel to be a show-n-tell lesson to the world of God’s plan for the nations. Sadly, Israel responded to their election with obstinate arrogance and the world has often responded with hatred. (think of how Joseph’s brothers treated him)
Today, Israel is both an ethnicity and a nation. The people are usually called Jews because the Southern Kingdom was called Judah and this was the last vestige of the nation before it was wiped out by the Romans in the 1st century. There are some Jews who are followers of Christ. They are a remnant and a minority. The Jewish people as a whole are enemies of the gospel. They do not believe in God as Trinity. They do not believe in the deity of Christ. They do not believe in his virgin birth, sinless life, atoning death, bodily resurrection, ascension and promised return. They do not believe in the Bible. Many Jews are not religious at all. Tel Aviv is the home of the largest pride celebration in the middle east. Judaism and Islam is similar in they both embrace a one-person god, and believe in one’s efforts and sacrifices to achieve forgiveness and eternal life. They are also similar in the fact that there are elements of both religions that are more conservative, some zealots, and many cultural followers.
On the one hand, Israel is a pagan nation who hates Christ and Christianity, but is grateful for the financial and military assistance of our nation. On the other hand, Israel is a pagan nation that has a part in the ultimate plan of God. So, how should we think about Israel? When her policies and practices align themselves with God’s Word, we rejoice. When her policies and practices are contrary to God’s Word, we do not agree. Think of the prophet Jeremiah. Did he love his nation? Of course! Did he support her? If you mean, did he attend the military pep rallies to hype up the troops to resist the Babylonian invasion? No. If you mean, did he faithfully tell them God’s Word so that they would repent, follow God and be spared? Yes. He was accused of being disloyal to Israel only because Israel was disloyal to God.
We should never be loyal to Israel, the U.S. or any nation, if that means that we would be disloyal to God. God’s place of Israel in his plan does not mean that we support Israel, no matter what. It does mean that no one can ever destroy this nation. Even when the entire world turns on her (which I believe will be the case someday), God will keep his promise and rescue her for the sake of his name. Never take your eye off Israel. It is a fascinating and comforting reminder that our God keeps his Word and is carrying out his plan.
Grace and peace,
Bob
Sunday’s Text: Luke 12:32-34
P.S. I have also been asked if I would consider leading a trip to Israel someday. My response has been, “when things settle down.” I’ve been saying that for many, many years and am not sure if I will ever go. However, I have been asked to help lead a trip next year to some of the sites of the early churches in Greece. That appears to be a bit safer. Here is a link if you want more information.
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