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May 2, 2024

Evangelical support for Zionism

Evangelical support for Zionism

Evangelical support for Zionism
Article by Butch Leake
Copyright 2024

Introduction

Evangelical support for Zionism is a topic that has garnered significant attention in recent decades, with many questioning the motivations behind this alliance between a powerful religious group and the Jewish state of Israel. In this article, we will explore the historical, political, and religious reasons behind Evangelical backing of Zionism and analyze the theological connections between Evangelical Christianity and the state of Israel. We will also examine the impact this support has had on geopolitical relations in the Middle East and the broader implications of this alliance.

Historical Roots of Evangelical Support for Zionism

The roots of Evangelical support for Zionism can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when a wave of Christian Zionism began to gain momentum in the United States and Europe. This movement was fueled by a combination of religious fervor, political interests, and a deep-seated belief in the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.

One of the key figures in the early Christian Zionist movement was British politician and evangelical Christian William Ewart Gladstone, who advocated for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine as a means of fulfilling biblical prophecy and preparing for the Second Coming of Christ. This idea resonated with many Evangelicals who saw the return of the Jewish people to their ancestral homeland as a sign of the imminent return of Jesus.

In the United States, Evangelical support for Zionism was further bolstered by the influential Scofield Reference Bible, first published in 1909 by preacher Cyrus Ingerson Scofield. This study Bible included extensive footnotes that promoted a pro-Zionist interpretation of biblical prophecy, further fueling the evangelical belief in the importance of a Jewish state in Israel.

Political Motivations Behind Evangelical Support for Zionism

In addition to religious convictions, Evangelical support for Zionism has also been influenced by political considerations, particularly in the context of US foreign policy in the Middle East. Many Evangelical leaders and organizations see Israel as a key ally in a volatile region and view the Jewish state as a bastion of democracy and Western values in a sea of authoritarian regimes.

Prominent Evangelical leaders, such as the Rev. Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson, have been vocal advocates for US support of Israel, citing biblical mandates to "bless" the Jewish people and the theological significance of Jerusalem as the "eternal capital" of Israel. This close alignment between Evangelical interests and Israeli government policies has helped shape US foreign policy in the region, with Evangelical Christians exerting significant influence on US politicians and policymakers.

Furthermore, Evangelical support for Israel is often rooted in a belief in the inherent right of the Jewish people to a homeland in the land of Israel, based on biblical promises and historical ties to the region. This conviction has led many Evangelicals to view any criticism of Israel as an affront to God's chosen people and as an obstacle to the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.

Theological Connections Between Evangelical Christianity and Zionism

At the heart of Evangelical support for Zionism lies a theological belief in the importance of Israel in God's divine plan for history. This belief is rooted in a literal interpretation of biblical prophecy, particularly passages from the Old Testament that speak of the restoration of Israel and the coming of the Messiah.

Prominent Evangelical scholar and theologian Dr. John Hagee, founder of Christians United for Israel (CUFI), has been a leading voice in promoting the theological connections between Evangelical Christianity and Zionism. Hagee argues that support for Israel is not merely a political stance, but a spiritual mandate rooted in the biblical promise of blessing those who bless Israel.

Many Evangelicals see the establishment of the modern state of Israel in 1948 as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy, particularly passages from the Book of Isaiah and the Book of Ezekiel that speak of the restoration of the Jewish people to their land. This belief in the divine hand at work in the history of Israel has led many Evangelicals to actively support the Jewish state through advocacy, financial support, and pilgrimage.

Impact of Evangelical Support for Zionism on Geopolitical Relations

The close alliance between Evangelical Christians and the state of Israel has had significant implications for geopolitics in the Middle East and beyond. The unwavering support of Evangelical leaders and organizations for Israel has helped shape US foreign policy in the region, leading to increased military aid, diplomatic support, and political backing for the Jewish state.

This support has also had a ripple effect on other countries, with Evangelical communities in Europe and Latin America also rallying behind Israel and advocating for a pro-Zionist stance in their respective governments. The influence of Evangelical beliefs on international relations has created a complex web of alliances and tensions, as governments navigate the competing interests of religious groups, political factions, and security concerns.

Furthermore, Evangelical support for Israel has been a source of controversy and conflict, particularly in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Many Evangelicals view the establishment of a Palestinian state as a threat to Israel's security and a hindrance to the fulfillment of biblical prophecy, leading to vocal opposition to peace initiatives and negotiations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Evangelical support for Zionism is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is rooted in historical, political, and religious motivations. The alliance between Evangelical Christians and the state of Israel has shaped US foreign policy in the Middle East, influenced international relations, and had a profound impact on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

While the theological connections between Evangelical Christianity and Zionism are deeply held beliefs for many, it is important to consider the broader implications of this alliance and the consequences of uncritical support for one side of a complex geopolitical conflict. By examining the historical roots, political motivations, and theological foundations of Evangelical support for Zionism, we can gain a better understanding of the complexities of this relationship and its impact on global affairs.