With war in the Middle East dominating headlines, Diana asks a timely question: should American Christians feel obligated to support the modern state of Israel? Pastors Brian and Luke dig into the theology behind this issue — specifically the relationship between Israel and the Church, the meaning of covenant, and how to interpret key passages like Genesis 12:3, Romans 9-11, and Galatians 3. This is one of those issues where mature Christians can disagree, but Brian and Luke share their perspective with humility and point to the broader church tradition.

Episode Timestamps

• [00:00] Introduction — Brian Fills In for Steve

• [00:52] Diana's Question: Should Christians Support Israel?

• [02:22] This Is an Issue Christians Can Disagree On

• [03:28] Non-Negotiables: Anti-Semitism, Anti-Arab Prejudice, and Loving Enemies

• [04:45] The Theological Heart of the Issue: Covenant

• [06:02] Genesis 12 — God's Covenant with Abraham

• [07:04] The New Testament and the New Covenant in Jesus

• [07:34] The Key Question: Are the Old Covenants Still Binding?

• [08:25] This Issue Goes Back to Acts 15 and the Apostolic Church

• [09:47] Romans 9-11 — What Does "All Israel Will Be Saved" Mean?

• [12:42] Genesis 12:3 — "I Will Bless Those Who Bless You"

• [13:32] Galatians 3 — The Church as Children of Abraham

• [14:46] One Covenant People or Two?

• [17:17] Consult the Broader Church Tradition

• [19:05] Bringing It Home: How Should Christians View Israel Today?

• [19:39] Millard Erickson on Israel and the Church

• [21:18] Closing & How to Submit Questions

People's Questions Answered

From Diana: "With Israel's government turning ever more secular, how should the Christian view of supporting the nation of Israel balance with the Bible's teachings, specifically from an American Christian perspective?"

Key Scripture References

· Genesis 12:2-3

· Genesis 32:28 (Jacob renamed Israel)

· Romans 9:6

· Romans 11:26

· Galatians 3:7-9, 26-29

· Ephesians 2

· Acts 15 (Jerusalem Council)

· Jeremiah 31 (New Covenant)

Connect With Us

Submit your questions at cherryhillsfamily.org/podcast, text "podcast" to 217-546-4818, or use the link in the show notes.

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