Episode 108 - Should Christians Support Israel? (featuring Dr. Jeff Myers)
Helping Christians make sense of their roots. Helping the Jewish community make sense of Jesus. Together, we are restoring the Jewishness of the gospel.
Summary
Why do so many Christians misunderstand the conflict in Israel, and what should we do about it? In our latest episode, we dive into this pressing issue with Dr. Jeff Myers, President of Summit Ministries. Dr. Myers shares his insights from a recent trip to Israel and explores why the rising generation has so many misconceptions about this critical region.
We discuss the complex layers of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, breaking down the difference between geopolitical and theopolitical issues and why understanding the religious motivations behind the conflict is essential. Dr. Myers also sheds light on how current events in Israel relate to biblical prophecies and the multiple war fronts Israel is facing today.
Together, we unpack the history of Israel, its ongoing conflict with Hamas, and the broader geopolitical implications. We explore the concept of a just war and why it’s crucial for Christians to support Israel. This conversation isn't just about taking sides—it's about engaging in informed, meaningful discussions that matter. Join us as we navigate this complex and vital topic.
Takeaways
Dr. Jeff Myers wrote a book inspired by his trip to Israel in January and the need to address the rising generation's misconceptions about Israel.
There is a difference between geopolitical and theopolitical conflicts, with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict being theopolitical due to varying understandings of religious truth.
Biblical prophecies have been fulfilled in the existence of the current nation of Israel, but there are still prophecies yet to be fulfilled.
Israel is facing multiple war fronts, including conflicts with Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, and the West Bank. The situation in Israel is complex and constantly evolving, with the potential for conflict at any time.
Understanding the history and geopolitical implications of the conflict is crucial for informed discussions.
The concept of a just war is important in evaluating Israel's actions and defending its right to self-defense.
Young adults, including Christians, are increasingly influenced by anti-Israel propaganda and need to be presented with the facts.
Supporting Israel is not the same as agreeing with every Israeli policy, but it is important for Christians to stand with Israel in the face of rising anti-Israel sentiment.
Sound Bites
"51% of young Americans sided with Hamas in the battle between Hamas and Israel."
"Young adults' views on Israel can be changed with the presentation of facts."
"Iran believes they cannot achieve their desired apocalyptic aims as long as Israel exists."
"Israel's policing of the West Bank. So any of these situations could break into a war at any time."
"Does Israel have a legitimate right to exist? And is it ever going to be possible to manage the peace in the region as long as Hamas exists as a military governing force?"
"A just peace is one in which righteousness prevails when right is done. An unjust peace or a shameful peace is a peace in which evil is allowed to prevail."
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
04:23 - Inspiration for the Book and Trip to Israel
08:41 - The Difference Between Geopolitical and Theopolitical Conflicts
13:16 - The Impact of Facts on Young Adults' Views on Israel
19:34 - The Religious Motivations Behind the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
21:31 - Biblical Prophecies and the Existence of Israel
23:26 - Israel's Multiple War Fronts
26:16 - The Theopolitical Nature of the Conflict
28:59 - The Concept of a Just War
36:09 - Why Christians Should Support Israel
Many thanks to our friend, Joshua Aaron, for permission to use his song, “Every Tribe” as our Season 6 bumper music intro. You can listen to more of his music at joshuaaaron.tv.
And thank you to Joshua Royal, for writing our closer song now running six seasons straight. Listen to him at Joshua Royal Music.