Why Evangelicals and Protestants Are So Supportive of Israel
The historical and theological roots behind the significant support that Evangelicals and Protestants have for Israel are multi-faceted and deeply entrenched in both religious beliefs and political considerations. This article delves into the reasons behind this unwavering support.
Theological Foundations
Salvation through Jesus and the Israelite Heritage
Among Evangelicals and Protestants, the belief that God's chosen people are the Jews, through Jesus, is a fundamental aspect of their faith. Many Christians, including those who do not consider themselves Jewish, support the Jews because they view themselves as grafted into the vine (Galatians 3:26-29).
Seeking to support Israel is seen as an act of loving and blessing God's chosen people. This is rooted in biblical passages such as Jeremiah 31:35-37, which prophesies that God's love and protection for His chosen people, the Jews, will endure. For many, opposing Israel is likened to sticking a finger in God's eye, which is an offensive act.
The second coming of Jesus is linked to the returning of the Jews to Israel, as prophesied in scriptures like Romans 11:25-26.
Pastoral and Political Influences
Protestant History and Education
The support for Jews among Protestants has historical roots. The creation of Protestantism in 12th-century Spain by Jews dramatically influenced their outlook on Judaism and the Jewish community. This historical background has led to a deep appreciation and respect for Jewish culture and faith.
Protestants, including Evangelicals, cherish a sense of fellow-feeling with Jews due to shared historical persecution by the Catholic Church, such as the revocation of the Edict of Nantes and the Massacre of Saint Bartholomew's Eve. This experience taught Protestants to value education and literacy, which in turn led to greater understanding and respect for Jewish heritage and the Bible.
The emphasis on the study of the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament in Protestant houses of worship has reinforced the belief that Jews are God's chosen people. This respect for their unique status is a fundamental aspect of Protestant theology and practice.
Political Realities and Strategic Alliances
Political considerations also play a significant role in the support for Israel among Evangelicals and Protestants. Israel is often seen as the only true democracy in a region dominated by authoritarian and theocratic regimes. This political alliance aligns with American interests in the Middle East, where many Evangelicals and Protestants consider Israel as a key ally.
The support for Israel is further influenced by the desire to counter the influence of militant groups like Hamas and other anti-Semitic organizations. The American Evangelical community, while diverse, typically shares a strong disdain for these groups, seeing them as threats to both regional stability and religious freedoms.
A Personal Perspective from a South African Boer
Mark Dreyer, a South African Boer (Dutch-African) himself, offers a deeply personal account of this support. His family's history of persecution by the Catholic Church in 16th and 17th-century Europe fostered a deep respect and empathy for other non-Catholic religious communities, including Jews. This respect was further reinforced by their humble beginnings and the pursuit of education free from religious indoctrination.
Historically, Dreyer's family and their Jewish counterparts shared a common struggle for self-determination and religious freedom. The respect and camaraderie between these communities have endured to the present day, evidenced by the positive support and integration of Jewish immigrants into South African society.
From personal experience, Dreyer recalls the positive interactions and camaraderie between Jewish settlers and Afrikaners, particularly noting the skills and contributions of Jewish merchants and traders. This mutual respect and cooperation have laid the foundation for ongoing support for Israel among various religious communities.
While religious and historical reasons explain much of the support, it is also important to note that many Evangelicals and Protestants do not see this support as a matter of apocalyptic speculation but rather as a reflection of existing positive impressions and the shared goal of promoting peace and justice in the region.
Support for Israel, therefore, is a complex blend of religious belief, historical affinity, and strategic alliances, all reinforcing a deep commitment to the Jewish people and their state.