The question “Where in the Bible does it say to support
Israel?” is significant for many believers seeking biblical guidance on
contemporary geopolitics. Israel, both as a people and a land, holds a central
place in biblical history and prophecy, and the scriptures contain numerous
references that encourage believers to recognize and uphold God's covenant with
Israel.
God’s Covenant with Israel: The Foundation of Support
One of the most fundamental reasons to support Israel
biblically stems from God’s covenant with Abraham and his descendants. In
Genesis 12:1-3, God promises Abraham that through his seed all nations of the
earth would be blessed:
“I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
(Genesis
12:3, NIV)
This Abrahamic Covenant establishes Israel as a chosen
people with a divinely ordained role in history. The promise encompasses both a
land and a people, affirming Israel’s unique status. Supporting Israel is,
thus, viewed as sharing in God’s blessing and aligning with His eternal
promises.
Israel as God’s Chosen People and the Root of Redemption
The Bible refers to the Israelites as God’s “chosen people”
(Deuteronomy 7:6-8). Jesus Himself stated in the New Testament, “Salvation is
from the Jews” (John 4:22), highlighting that the Jewish people are the source
of the Messiah and the foundation of God’s redemptive plan through Jesus
Christ.
Paul’s epistles, especially Romans chapters 9-11, elaborate
on the theological significance of Israel. Paul calls Jews the “root” and
Gentiles the “branches,” emphasizing a spiritual connection that requires
Gentile believers not to be arrogant but to honor this heritage (Romans
11:16-21). The eventual salvation of “all Israel” (Romans 11:26) reflects the
enduring covenant and prophetic future for the nation.
Scriptural Calls to Bless and Protect Israel
The Bible contains numerous passages urging believers to
bless and protect Israel:
- Genesis
27:29: “May those who curse you be cursed and those who bless you be
blessed.”
- Psalm
122:6: “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May those who love you be
secure.’”
- Isaiah
62:6-7: God commands to keep watch over Jerusalem and not to be silent
until its righteousness shines.
These verses underpin spiritual and practical encouragement
for supporting Israel through prayer, advocacy, and standing with the nation in
times of conflict.
The Land of Israel: God’s Promised Territory
God explicitly states the land of Israel as “His land” and
makes prophetic commitments about it in multiple scriptures:
- Joel
2:18 and 3:2 describe Israel as the Lord’s unique possession.
- Ezekiel
37 portrays the restoration and national revival of Israel.
- Deuteronomy
32:43 calls for rejoicing with Israel and God’s atonement for the land.
The land itself is central to God’s covenant promises,
—supporting Israel also means affirming God’s sovereign plan for this
territory.
Biblical Perspective on Conflict and Peace
While the Bible predicts ongoing conflict involving Israel,
it also calls for justice, peace, and compassion:
- The
struggle between descendants of Isaac (Israel) and Ishmael (Arab nations)
is prophesied (Genesis 16, 17) and implies ongoing geopolitical tension.
- Christians
are called to love their neighbors (Matthew 22:39), which includes Arabs
and Palestinians, and to seek peace.
- Standing
with Israel does not necessitate opposition to Arabs or Palestinians but a
commitment to biblical truth and justice.
The complex relationship invites believers to approach
supporting Israel with a spirit of love, prayer, and reconciliation.
Contemporary Relevance and the Church’s Role
In current times marked by increased hostility against
Israel and rising antisemitism, many Christians view support for Israel as a
biblical mandate and a moral commitment. This includes:
- Advocacy
for Israel’s right to security and sovereignty.
- Combating
antisemitism and misinformation.
- Praying
and interceding for peace and prosperity in Israel.
Prominent Christian leaders emphasize that standing with
Israel is not merely political but grounded in Scripture and aligns with God’s
overarching plan for humanity.
The Bible contains clear and repeated
instructions to support Israel through divine covenants, prophetic
promises, and spiritual solidarity. From Abrahamic blessings to New Testament
affirmations of Israel’s central role in salvation history, Scripture invites
believers to stand with Israel as a fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
Contemporary Christians are called to engage in this support through prayer,
advocacy, and understanding the biblical foundations that underline Israel’s
unique place in God’s plan.