The Commonwealth of Israel
Understanding Our Inheritance in the Jewish People
In our study of Ephesians, the phrase "I am who you say I am" has revealed so much about our identity in Christ. This week, we're focusing on Ephesians 2:11-13, which tells us something profound about who we are now that we have been brought near to God through Jesus. Let’s look at this passage:
Ephesians 2:11-13:
“Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called ‘the uncircumcision’ by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands—remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.”
This scripture speaks to the profound spiritual truth that we, once separated from God and alienated from His people, have now been brought near—not only to God Himself, which is true, but to the commonwealth of Israel and the covenants of promise.
So, what does that mean for us today? It means we are not only included in the spiritual family of God but also grafted into the rich history, promises, and blessings that God gave to the Jewish people through His covenant with Abraham. Far from being a reason to distance ourselves from Israel and Jewish heritage, this should encourage us to see our nearness to them as something good—something Jesus Himself purchased with His blood.
The Growing Divide
In the world today, there is a growing divide where many see alignment with Israel as problematic or controversial. But this couldn’t be further from the truth of Scripture. The Bible is clear that being brought near to the Commonwealth of Israel is a good thing. We are no longer strangers and outsiders but now have a place in the family of Abraham (Romans 11:17-24). We are recipients of the covenants God made with Israel, and the history of the Jewish people becomes our history. Their story of deliverance, covenantal promises, and redemption is now part of our identity. To reject this closeness is to reject a part of the redemption Jesus died to give us.
Let’s not be deceived by the modern spirit of anti-Semitism that suggests we should distance ourselves from the Jewish people. Instead, let us embrace our nearness to them, seeing it as part of our inheritance in Christ. This is not a political stance—it is a spiritual truth. We are united with Israel through the blood of Jesus, and it’s essential to understand and celebrate that.
10 Reasons We Support Israel:
Biblical Covenant with Abraham:
God’s promise to bless those who bless Israel (Genesis 12:1-3) is eternal. Supporting Israel means aligning ourselves with God's covenant and His purposes for the Jewish people.Fulfillment of Prophecy:
The creation of the state of Israel in 1948 is a fulfillment of prophecy foretold in Isaiah 66:8 and Ezekiel 37:21-22, where God promised to bring His people back to their land. This stands as a testament to God's faithfulness.God’s Chosen People:
Deuteronomy 7:6-8 reminds us that Israel was chosen to be a blessing to the world. God’s covenant with them is not canceled but still in effect, and we honor this by standing with His chosen people (Romans 11:1-2).Support for Democracy and Freedom:
Israel is one of the few democracies in the Middle East, standing as a beacon of freedom and human rights. Our support for Israel is also a stand for the values of liberty and justice.Protection of People and Holy Sites:
Israel safeguards sites significant to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, ensuring they are accessible and protected. We value Israel’s stewardship of these sacred places and the protection it provides to its diverse population.Shared Moral and Ethical Values:
Israel’s governance is rooted in the Judeo-Christian ethics of justice, human dignity, and freedom. Our support for Israel is a reflection of shared values and a commitment to upholding them.Strategic Global and Military Alliance:
Israel is a crucial ally in the global fight against terrorism, standing alongside the U.S. and other Western nations in defense of freedom and security. Supporting Israel strengthens this global alliance and contributes to international stability.Humanitarian Aid and Technological Advancements:
Israel is known for its humanitarian outreach and technological innovations that benefit the entire world, including life-saving medical technologies and agricultural advancements. Their commitment to helping others reflects biblical values.Defense Against Radical Terrorism:
Israel faces constant threats from groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, who seek to destroy it. Supporting Israel’s right to defend itself is part of standing for righteousness and justice.Connection to God’s Redemptive Plan:
Israel plays a central role in God’s ultimate plan of redemption. As Christians, we recognize that the return of Jesus is connected to the land of Israel, and standing with Israel aligns us with God’s unfolding purposes (Zechariah 14:1-4).
10 Misconceptions About Israel and the Palestinians:
Media Bias and Misinformation:
Many are misled by media outlets that disproportionately portray Israel as the aggressor while ignoring the real daily threats Israel faces. The complex history and reality are often distorted to fit a certain narrative.Selective Focus on Israeli Responses:
News coverage often focuses on Israel's defensive military responses while downplaying the terrorist acts that provoke these responses. This selective reporting fosters a one-sided view that leads many to see Israel as oppressors rather than defenders.Influence of Radical Ideologies:
Some social justice movements, influenced by Marxist or anti-Semitic ideologies, paint Israel as a colonial power. This ignores the legitimate biblical and historical claims that the Jewish people have to the land.Palestinian Leadership’s Narrative:
The Palestinian leadership often uses a victim narrative to deflect from their own governance failures and violence. The corruption and terrorism within their ranks often go ignored by the international community, leading to misperceptions about Israel’s role.Underestimating Terrorist Groups:
Groups like Hamas use civilians as shields and operate from within civilian areas, making it difficult for Israel to respond without collateral damage. This tactic is designed to garner international sympathy and demonize Israel.Overlooking Palestinian Autonomy:
Many believe Israel controls all aspects of Palestinian life. In reality, the Palestinians have autonomy in Gaza and parts of the West Bank, and Israel often works with Palestinian authorities to promote peace and economic growth.Distorted Perception of Justice:
Our world has a skewed understanding of justice, often labeling Israel’s actions as unjust while failing to hold terrorist organizations accountable. This misunderstanding clouds the truth of the conflict.Demonic Spirit of Antisemitism:
Antisemitism is not a new phenomenon—it is a demonic force that has existed throughout history to destroy the Jewish people. This spirit still deceives many into believing lies about Israel and the Jewish people.Spiritual Battle Over Truth:
The conflict over Israel is not just political; it’s spiritual. Satan has always sought to destroy what God has established. By turning people against Israel, he sows division and confusion to keep them from seeing God's redemptive purposes.Disconnection from the God of Israel:
The ultimate goal of the enemy is to sever our connection to the God of Israel. By fostering division between Christians and the Jewish people, Satan aims to prevent us from fully participating in God’s redemptive story. Supporting Israel keeps us aligned with God’s promises.
Embracing God’s People
As believers, we must recognize that our relationship with Israel is not just historical but spiritual. Jesus' death on the cross not only reconciled us to God but also brought us into the family of Abraham. We have been brought near to the Commonwealth of Israel and the Covenants of Promise, and this is something to be celebrated—not shunned.
In a world increasingly hostile toward Israel, we must remember our biblical mandate. Standing with Israel is part of standing with God’s plan for redemption. Let’s embrace the fullness of our identity in Christ, grafted into the rich history and future of God’s chosen people, the Jewish people. And as we do, we remember that this is not just a political stance, but a spiritual truth that keeps us aligned with the purposes of God.
