The ongoing conflict, marked by the horrific attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7, 2023, has placed Israel in a dire situation where they must defend themselves against an existential threat. It is essential to acknowledge that while many in Gaza may not be active members of Hamas, their actions and sentiments often complicate the situation. For years, there have been widespread celebrations in Gaza with chants of "Death to Israel; Death to America," reflecting a deep-seated hostility. This hatred makes it difficult for Israel to differentiate between combatants and non-combatants. Furthermore, many civilians in Gaza have refused to provide information to the Israeli military about the whereabouts of Hamas operatives, which further endangers innocent lives and complicates Israel's efforts to defend itself. Despite these complexities, the global narrative has increasingly turned against Israel, echoing the prophecies of the Bible.
As Christians, our faith is inherently connected to Israel. Our Lord Jesus Christ was born a Jew, lived and walked among His Jewish people, and is the King of the Jews. Soon, He will reign from the Throne of David in Jerusalem, Israel. This is not merely a historical or cultural connection but a profound spiritual truth that shapes our identity and understanding of God's plan for humanity.
Given this deep connection, standing against Israel equates to standing against God Himself—the Lord Jesus Christ. The Bible is unequivocal about the importance of Israel and the Jewish people. Historically, they have constituted a minuscule minority that Satan has vehemently opposed throughout millennia. They are that resilient few whom kingdoms, tribes, and nations have sought to eradicate from the face of the earth. Yet, they remain! Why? Because they are the people with whom God established a covenant through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, designating Israel as His chosen nation. The Lord God granted them their land through the covenant detailed in Genesis chapters 15 and 17, despite the world's refusal to recognize this divine land grant. Instead, the world has persistently attempted to diminish their territory through so-called treaties.
Throughout the Scriptures, God promises to protect Israel and calls upon His followers to do the same. Genesis 12:3 states, "I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed." This verse emphasizes the reciprocal relationship between blessing and cursing in relation to Israel, highlighting the importance of how nations treat God's chosen people. Similarly, Psalm 122:6 exhorts us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem, emphasizing the interconnectedness of Jerusalem's well-being with the security and welfare of those who hold it dear. These verses are poignant reminders of our responsibility to support Israel and actively seek its peace and security.
The recent events in Gaza are undeniably tragic, but it's essential to consider the broader context. Israel's response is a matter of self-defense against a populace committed to its destruction. The attack on October 7, 2023, was a direct assault on innocent lives, leaving Israel with no recourse but to protect its people. This right to self-defense is not just a political stance but a moral imperative supported by Biblical principles.
The rising tide of protests against Israel, particularly among individuals who identify as Christians, is deeply troubling. It reflects a stark disconnect from the heart of Christ, historical evidence, Biblical teachings, and a misunderstanding of the true nature of the conflict. These protests often ignore the aggression faced by Israel and, instead, unjustly condemn a nation striving to protect its citizens.
As Christians, our mandate is clear: We are called to uphold the truth and support justice. To stand against Israel is to contradict the teachings of Christ and the Scriptures. It's imperative that we educate ourselves and others about ancient and modern history and the Biblical mandate to support Israel. This doesn't mean ignoring the plight of the innocent on all sides of the conflict. Rather, it involves recognizing that Israel's right to exist and defend itself is fundamental and must be upheld.
In conclusion, our Holy Bible and faith demand that we stand in solidarity with Israel. Our Lord, Jesus Christ, was a Jew, and His eternal throne will be established in Jerusalem. To oppose Israel is to oppose God and His plan and to misunderstand the essence of our Christ. Let us fervently pray for peace, actively support Israel, and unwaveringly stand firm in our Biblical convictions.
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