by Mark Dreistadt
As evangelical Christians, we stand with Israel because we believe the Jewish people hold a unique and enduring place in the redemptive plan of God. Through Israel came the covenants, the prophets, the Scriptures, and ultimately our Messiah, Jesus Christ (Romans 9:4–5).
Our support for Israel is not rooted in politics, sentiment, or current events, but in biblical conviction, historical awareness, moral responsibility, and spiritual gratitude.
When we speak of Israel, we recognize three related but distinct realities: Israel as the Jewish people, Israel as the land of promise, and Israel as the modern State.
- We affirm the Jewish peopleas the chosen covenant people through whom God has worked to bring forth the Messiah, the promised seed of Abraham, the one through whom all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:1–3, 17:8; Deuteronomy 7:6–8).
- We recognize the land of Israelas biblically significant, tied to God’s promise to Abraham and his descendants and the unfolding story of redemption (Genesis 15:18; Ezekiel 36:24).
- We support the modern State of Israelas the national homeland of the Jewish people and affirm its right to exist in security, defend its citizens, and live in peace among the nations (Jeremiah 31:35-37).
The rebirth of Israel in 1948, its survival against overwhelming odds, and its remarkable victories in 1967 and 1973 have led many evangelicals to see the hand of divine providence in modern history. While believers may express this conviction in different ways, many of us believe Israel’s restoration and preservation are evidence that God has not abandoned His covenant purposes for the Jewish people (Jeremiah 31:35–37; Romans 11:1–2, 28–29).
Biblical love is not blind loyalty. Standing with Israel does not mean claiming that every action of the Israeli government is automatically right. The prophets loved Israel deeply and still called Israel to righteousness, justice, and repentance (Isaiah 1:17; Micah 6:8; Amos 5:24). In the same spirit, we affirm Israel’s right to defend itself while also affirming that every nation remains morally accountable before God.
The October 7, 2023, Hamas attack was an act of terror and barbarity marked by murder, hostage-taking, rape, brutality, and the deliberate targeting of civilians. Israel had not only the right but the responsibility to respond against Hamas, protect its citizens, recover hostages, and prevent future atrocities. Scripture teaches that governing authorities bear the responsibility to restrain evil and protect the innocent (Romans 13:1–4). While Christians may legitimately question particular policies or actions, Israel’s right to defend its people should not be in question.
We also recognize the tragic suffering of Palestinian civilians. Palestinian life is not expendable. Palestinians are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), and their dignity, safety, and future matter. We can reject Palestinian terrorism and still care about Palestinian suffering. The Lord calls His people to seek justice, love mercy, and care for the vulnerable (Micah 6:8; Proverbs 31:8–9).
Christians may differ regarding the political and diplomatic means by which peace should be pursued, but any proposed solution must be evaluated in light of biblical truth, Israel’s historic and covenantal connection to the land, and the practical consequences for those who live there. We should not support an arrangement that rewards terrorism, empowers those committed to Israel’s destruction, divides the land in disregard of its biblical significance, or places Israel’s people in greater danger.
We pray for a genuine peace—one rooted in truth, righteousness, security, and mutual recognition—not a political formula that creates the appearance of peace while endangering Israel’s future (Psalm 122:6; Jeremiah 6:14).
To stand with Israel is to:
- Reject antisemitism(Genesis 12:3; Romans 11:17–21)
- Comfort the Jewish people(Isaiah 40:1–2)
- Pray for the peace of Jerusalem(Psalm 122:6–9)
- Affirm God’s enduring purposes for the land and people of Israel(Jeremiah 31:35–37; Romans 11:1–2, 25–29)
- Remain grounded in biblical truth(John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16–17)
- Seek righteousness for all who live in the land(Micah 6:8; Zechariah 7:9–10)
We stand with Israel not because Israel is perfect, but because God is faithful and has chosen Israel for Himself. We seek to align ourselves with God’s covenant purposes and reflect His enduring love and faithfulness toward the Jewish people.
Mark Dreistadt, President, Chief Executive Officer at Infinity Concepts
Mark casts the vision for Infinity Concepts and keeps everyone focused on the big picture.
