Israel’s Prophetic Journey: Trials, Restoration, and the Hope to Come
- unlockthebiblenow
- Apr 12
- 3 min read
By Scott Mitchell
In Rethinking Support for Israel: A Biblical Approach Beyond Politics, we explored why Christian support for Israel must be grounded in Scripture rather than political ideology. We also examined the difference between biblical support for God’s people and political alignment with the modern state of Israel, while addressing misconceptions about anti-Zionism, anti-Semitism, and the future of Israel in God's redemptive plan.
Now, in Part 2, we shift our focus from theology to prophecy. What does the Bible reveal about Israel’s future? What trials must the nation face, and what promises remain on the horizon? We walk through Paul’s teaching in Romans 11, examine the olive tree metaphor, and challenge the error of replacement theology.
This continuation also delves into the prophetic writings of Zechariah, Hosea, Joel, and Jeremiah to trace God’s timeline for Israel—and what it means for believers today.
Whether you’re continuing from Part 1 or starting here, this study builds on that foundation and looks ahead to what lies beyond.
Understanding God’s Plan Through Paul’s Letters
In Romans chapters 10 and 11, Paul outlines a mystery that many believers have missed. He explains Israel’s national rejection of Christ and the opening of salvation to the Gentiles. Paul writes that Israel has been temporarily blinded “until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in” (Romans 11:25). That’s where we are today—living in the Church Age, when both Jew and Gentile are offered salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
But Paul is clear: God has not cast away His people. The everlasting covenant with Abraham still stands. Restoration will come—not by human hands, but by God’s perfect design and timing.
The Olive Tree: A Picture of Spiritual Inheritance
Romans 11 gives us one of the most profound metaphors in Scripture: the olive tree. Israel, as the natural branches, were broken off because of unbelief. Gentiles, likened to wild branches, were grafted in by grace.
It’s a vivid picture of humility. As Gentile believers, we now share in Israel’s spiritual blessings—not by replacing them, but by God’s mercy. Paul warns the Church not to boast or think itself superior. The root of that tree supports us all.
This directly counters the notion of replacement theology, the false teaching that the Church has permanently taken Israel’s place. That belief distorts Paul’s message and ignores the prophetic witness of the Old Testament.
Prophetic Promises and Israel’s Future Redemption
The prophets speak in unison about Israel’s eventual restoration. Hosea foretells a time when Israel, after a period of divine withdrawal, will return and seek the Lord (Hosea 5:15). Joel envisions a future outpouring of God’s Spirit and national renewal. Jeremiah and Ezekiel describe a rebirth—a new heart and a new spirit placed within the nation.
These are not poetic dreams. They are certain promises rooted in God’s unchanging faithfulness. But before this restoration unfolds, Israel must pass through tribulation. Zechariah tells us that two-thirds will perish, but a purified remnant—one-third—will believe (Zechariah 13:8–9).
Jeremiah calls it “the time of Jacob’s trouble” (Jeremiah 30:7)—a season of immense trial that ultimately leads to redemption.
Modern Israel: Prophetic or Political?
It’s important to clarify: I believe with all conviction that God is not finished with Israel. But we must also be careful not to confuse the modern nation-state with the complete fulfillment of prophecy.
Yes, the 1948 re-establishment of Israel is significant. But the full prophetic picture won’t be realized until the nation as a whole turns to God and recognizes Jesus as Messiah.
What we see today is largely a secular government formed by political decree—not a spiritual restoration. The promises of God remain intact, but the true fulfillment is still ahead.
A Call to the Church: Pray, Preach, Prepare
As believers in this present age, our call is not to idolize Israel, nor to ignore her. Instead, we align with God’s heart. That means praying for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6), preaching the gospel to all—especially the Jew—and preparing ourselves for what’s to come.
We look ahead to the rapture of the Church, which will mark the resumption of God’s prophetic plan for Israel. Until then, we proclaim Christ crucified—to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile (Romans 1:16).
Final Thoughts
God’s plan for Israel hasn’t been canceled—it’s been paused. And when that pause ends, Israel will return, not through politics, but through trial and repentance. A believing remnant will rise, and the nation will be restored.
Let’s not build our theology on news cycles or national alliances. Let’s build it on the Word of God. Support for Israel must begin with the gospel, not a flag. When we anchor our convictions in Scripture, we find clarity, peace, and purpose.