Part 4 of The Church and the Restoration of Israel explores God's covenantal relationship with Israel and its theological and eschatological implications for the church. Central to this doctrine is the belief that Israel, as God's "firstborn son" (Amos 3:2), plays a unique and enduring role in God’s Kingdom plan. While the church and Israel have distinct roles, they are intertwined in God's redemptive narrative. The doctrine challenges Replacement Theology, affirming that Israel retains its prophetic destiny and is not replaced by the church. Historical milestones, such as the Zionist movement, the Balfour Declaration, and the reestablishment of Israel in 1948, are seen as fulfillments of biblical prophecy. Theologically, the church is called to provoke Israel to salvation (Romans 11:11) and partner in its physical and spiritual restoration (Isaiah 61:4-5). The final restoration of Israel includes the gathering of Jewish exiles from all nations (Isaiah 11:11-12) and the establishment of Christ’s Kingdom in Jerusalem (Micah 5:3). Ultimately, God’s covenant with Israel remains irrevocable, and the church is called to recognize and support His ongoing plan for Israel’s restoration and the unification of believing Jews and Gentiles in His eternal Kingdom.
10-Days and the One New Man Prayer for Israel and the Church
God’s redemptive plan for humanity is a profound and intricate story of unity and salvation, bringing together both Jews and Gentiles through Jesus Christ, the Messiah. Rooted in the covenant made with Israel, God’s promise to bless all nations is fulfilled through the inclusion of Gentiles in His divine family. The New Testament concept of the “one new man” reflects the breaking down of divisions between Jews and Gentiles, reconciling them both to God and to each other. This unity is central to God’s plan, where the Church, made up of believers from all nations, shares in the blessings given to Israel, and works together to proclaim the gospel and fulfill God’s redemptive purposes. The Church’s role is not to replace Israel, but to stand alongside her, as both await the full restoration of Israel and the ultimate realization of God’s kingdom.
The Trump-Cyrus Allusion
In January 2017, my son and I attended the inauguration of President Donald John Trump. A friend had offered two of his silver zone tickets. How could we refuse this generous offer? After all, I did vote for Trump.
The rain held back, and the temperatures were unseasonably warm for January. A gentle mist fell precisely at the time of Trump’s swearing in—a blessing of sorts. The opening prayers were powerful, and hearing the name of Jesus proclaimed over our nation lifted my spirit.
One New Man
The year was 2002 and I was a new believer in Jesus, yet I still had many questions about Christianity. I knew that Jesus (in Hebrew Yeshua or Yehoshua) was a Jewish man, but for some unknown reason none of the churches we had attended resembled the Jewish culture and religion I had grown up with. Was Christianity a completely new religion, or was it an offshoot from biblical Judaism? If so, then how did the church become so disconnected from its spiritual foundation?
A Letter to the Church
It is with great urgency that we write you about a mandate that our ministry has received from the Lord to partner with others and mobilize the American Church to pray for Israel. The Lord has been revealing for some time now that a very difficult season is falling upon them.