The Role of Jesus in the End Times: Beliefs and Predestination

The question of whether Jesus, during the end times, would only take Israeli Jews and not Christians as refuge is a complex and often misunderstood concept. This article aims to explore the theological and biblical foundations behind the belief that Jesus would indeed prioritize Christians, despite the misconception that He rejected the New Testament.

Revisiting the Biblical Context

The basis of this concept is found in the Bible, particularly during the Passover feast when Jesus stated, 'For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.' (Matthew 26:28, Mark 14:24, Luke 22:20, KJV). Here, Jesus is affirming the New Testament as a new covenant, just as the Old Testament was confirmed with the blood of the covenant (Exodus 24:8).

Hebrews 8:6 further supports this by highlighting that the new covenant is better, implying an evolution in divine service. This points towards the New Testament as a fulfillment and advancement of the Old.

Arguments Against the Premise

Others argue that it’s impossible for Jesus to treat Christians and Jews differently, given His Jewish roots and the expectation that He would bring salvation to all. Here are key counterpoints:

Jesus’s Mission and Purpose

The earthly ministry of Jesus included preaching and collecting followers because He was preparing a new Church to lead people to salvation. His mission was to spread His message and establish a new way of living—a new covenant. The choice of who to save would be a consequence of the acceptance of His teachings, not a pre-arranged preference.

Implications for Atheists

While this question often attracts atheist trolls, it’s important to clarify that such views do not constitute definitive proof of Jesus's divinity or the truth of Christianity. The assertion that Jesus returns as the Messiah and saves based on predestination is a presupposition that must be addressed.

Hope and Mercy

It’s not claimed that Jesus is the Son of God or that He preached everything the Bible says. However, the question itself assumes that Jesus will return and choose the saved over the unsaved. This presupposition suggests that Jesus was the Messiah in the First Century. While emphasizing the importance of faith and acceptance of His teachings, there’s no denying that many, if not all, Jews will be saved by God’s mercy.

Conclusion

The belief that Jesus prioritizes Christians in the end times is rooted in the new covenant of the New Testament. However, it’s also important to consider the mission and purpose of Jesus’s earthly ministry, as well as the implication of His mission for those who reject His teachings. Ultimately, the hope for salvation extends to all, whether or not they consciously convert to Christianity, as long as they are blessed by God's mercy.