Peace in the Middle East - III

A History Lesson, Part III

Why are many Western nations (including the U.S.) supporting Israel?

Some are sympathetic for the orphaned nation (Israel). Their existence and right to live in the land under their own form a government – one cannot deny. Anti-Semitism over the centuries cries out for mercy and justice. Western nations, including the U.S., generally respond to the needs of the oppressed.

The problem lies in identifying the oppressed and the oppressor. Who was there first? Who fired first? Who deserves retribution? How much retribution is warranted? What about the protection of innocent civilians on both sides? To whom should we be more sympathetic?

Guilt plays a part of the equation as well. The Holocaust and the guilt over other periods of mistreatment of the Jewish people (sometimes at the hand of Christians) have sparked a kind of Zionism. We feel somewhat responsible for the difficult plight of the Jews and so take interest in the state of Israel.

Some support the Israelis because they have a strong personal disdain for Muslims. They see Muslims (75% of Palestinians) as the enemy, and have an "any enemy of the Muslims is a friend of mine" attitude.

It's important to note that the most recent fighting in Gaza was provoked by Hamas, the ousted political party/terrorist group whose charter calls for the defeat of Israel. One can barely fault Israel for wanting to defend themselves. In fact, many Western nations support Israel today as part of the global fight against terrorism.

Now, fuel each of those reasons to support Israel (and there are several more) with a dose of biblical prophecy. Christians, particularly those who hold to a Pre-millennium Dispensationalist view of end-times, place great emphasis on the restoration of Israel and the re-establishment of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Does the Bible predict a restored Israel and Temple? Or has the Jews "chosen" status as the people of God ended?

Jesus is the Answer

There are many questions, but really just one answer – Jesus Christ. I know that some, particularly in the political world, would call that naïve, but it's the truth. Only through the power of the cross and Christ can the two be completely reconciled (Ephesians 2:11-22).

Let us pray for peace in the Middle East, but more importantly, let us pray that they (Jews and Gentiles) would come to know Christ as Lord and Savior.