Rethinking Support for Israel: A Biblical Approach Beyond Politics

By Scott Mitchell

What does it truly mean to support Israel as a Christian? In a time where political and theological lines often blur, this question demands more than a surface-level response. Scripture—not nationalism, ideology, or emotion—must shape our perspective. The modern Christian response to Israel often hinges on political movements like Zionism, but is that consistent with what the Bible teaches?

This study explores 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.

Anti-Zionism and Anti-Semitism: Not One and the Same

There’s increasing confusion surrounding criticism of Zionism and accusations of anti-Semitism. While Zionism refers to a political movement advocating for a Jewish homeland, anti-Semitism is rooted in hostility toward Jews as a people. The distinction is vital. It is entirely possible—and biblically consistent—to critique policies or ideologies associated with modern Israel without harboring prejudice against Jewish individuals.

Throughout history and even today, many faithful Jewish voices—particularly among Torah-observant communities—oppose Zionism on theological grounds. Dissenting from political agendas is not an attack on a people group, and Scripture offers clarity for navigating this tension.

Who Is Israel? Scripture Defines the True Identity

Romans 9 lays the foundation for understanding Jewish identity not by ethnicity, but by promise and faith. Paul makes it clear that "they are not all Israel, which are of Israel" (Romans 9:6). This echoes a consistent theme throughout Scripture: spiritual lineage through faith takes precedence over genetic descent.

Jesus Himself confronted Jewish leaders who leaned on their Abrahamic heritage while neglecting the weightier matters of spiritual truth. His rebukes were not rooted in bigotry, but in exposing a misplaced trust in the flesh rather than in God.

Abraham’s Faith, Not His Bloodline

Abraham is called the father of many nations not because of his genetic lineage, but because of his faith. Romans 4 reminds believers that it was Abraham's belief that was “counted unto him for righteousness.” This principle transcends ethnicity—it is the foundation of salvation for both Jew and Gentile.

Biblically, belonging to Israel means walking in the footsteps of Abraham’s faith, not merely tracing his bloodline. This framework reshapes how Christians are to view Israel—not simply as a nation on a map, but as a people defined by faith in the Messiah.

Israel, the Church, and God’s Promises

Some theological traditions have advanced “replacement theology,” the idea that the Church has permanently replaced Israel in God’s plan. This view fails to account for key prophetic promises and dismisses the future national restoration of Israel.

Scripture points to a distinct role for national Israel in end-time prophecy. Romans 11 anticipates a future when “all Israel shall be saved.” This doesn’t mean every descendant of Abraham will believe, but that God’s covenant with national Israel remains intact and will be fulfilled according to His timeline.

The Church and Israel serve different roles in God’s plan—but both find their fulfillment through faith in Jesus Christ.

Critiquing a Nation Isn’t Hating a People

In today's climate, criticizing any government—whether it be America, Russia, or China—is commonplace. Yet, when one critiques Israel's political actions, accusations of anti-Semitism often follow. The key is discerning motive and message. Condemning unjust policies or calling out human rights violations isn’t hatred—it can be a call to justice.

Faithful Christians must be wise, recognizing the difference between legitimate political critique and rhetoric that veers into anti-Semitic tropes. As always, Scripture remains the standard.

Faith in Christ: The Cornerstone of True Restoration

True spiritual identity—whether for Jew or Gentile—is found in Christ alone. The law, lineage, and national heritage all point to the Messiah, who is the fulfillment of every promise made to the patriarchs. Support for Israel should never be divorced from this gospel truth.

To love the Jewish people is to desire their reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ. It is not a matter of geopolitical allegiance, but of eternal salvation. And while the modern state of Israel plays a role in unfolding prophecy, its greatest need is not global recognition, but redemption through faith.

Final Thoughts

Christian support for Israel must move beyond slogans and political alliances. The Bible calls for a deeper, more faithful perspective—one that honors God's promises without conflating them with the policies of any earthly government.

Standing with Israel means standing with God's plan, recognizing the unique role of the Jewish people in redemptive history, and praying for the day when national Israel, too, will look upon the One they pierced and believe.

Watch to the Bible Study: Supporting Israel – Part 1 now available on Rumble.