Israel has been making news lately. After being attacked by the internationally recognized terrorist group, Hamas, they have retaliated with force and a determination to break the will of this organization by eliminating their commanders and neutralizing their ability to commit these violent acts of mass destruction. While as of this writing a ceasefire has been called, this conflict between the Palestinians and Israel has always been a polarizing issue within our own political system. Because of Israel’s massive show of force and complete domination of the Hamas infrastructure, many more Palestinian than Israeli people have died. Some have even called these operations of the Israeli Defense Force “human rights violations” because of the massive desolation and the innocents that have been unintentionally killed. Others have put out their support of Israel only to take a shellacking in the court of public opinion on social media. What position should the Christian take in this matter?

The traditional position by conservative Christianity has always been to stand with Israel. Our country has long held Israel as an ally and has supported their military endeavors in various ways. This thinking is all based on a promise made by God to Abraham over 3000 years ago: “And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed” (Genesis 12:3). It is part of what theologians call the Abrahamic Covenant. Abraham was called a friend of God (James 2:23) and while he did nothing to deserve being chosen by God for this covenant, this promise has eternally given both he and his descendants a special place of status with God.

Part of this covenant has already been fulfilled by Jesus Christ. Did you know that both the gospel of Matthew and Luke trace the lineage of Jesus back to Abraham? This is because He is the fulfillment of the phrase “in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed”. Jesus Christ died for the sins of the WHOLE world (1 John 2:2) – not just the Jewish people. He offers redemption and salvation to ALL who believe (John 3:15-16). In this great offer of hope to have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ, truly all the world has been blessed because of the fulfillment of this promise made to Abraham by God.

Yet, as long as the descendants of Abraham are preserved as a unique people, they continue to benefit from the blessings of God. Have you ever considered how much material, scientific, cultural, and other forms of wealth are centered in Israel? For a country that is surrounded by hostile nations, is under the constant scrutiny of international media, and has been victimized by anti-semitic sentiment, they not only continue to survive – but they thrive! They are a nation that is benefitting from the blessing and protection of God. This doesn’t mean that they do everything right or that they are more “righteous” in some way. These people are still human beings who are affected by their sin from within as well as the sin that is around. Acknowledging God’s blessing on them does not condone every action they commit or every belief that they hold. It simply recognizes the fact that despite their human condition, they continue to hold a special place in God’s plan for the world.

So, how do we as Christians need to view Israel? First, as the Bible tells us, pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6) but remember that true peace will only come when the Prince of Peace returns and not from a ceasefire or some political summit. Second, remember that God has given these people a special status because of His promise to Abraham. While they may not deserve this elevated position, it would behoove us to stand with them as a nation and reap the side-benefits of God’s blessing on ourselves. Finally, keep in mind that God has a future plan for Israel. Romans 11:26 reminds us that “all Israel shall be saved.” Jesus Christ will establish His future kingdom in Jerusalem during His millennial reign. The Jewish people will one day acknowledge Jesus Christ as Savior and be a key part of this kingdom. The good news is that you will take part in this future blessing as well if you have trusted in Jesus Christ as Savior. So turn to Him, repent of your sins, and trust in this covenant that Jesus Christ has offered to you!