Pastor Rob Bray | 3-22-2026
The relationship between Jewish people and Gentiles has been a source of confusion and division throughout church history. Paul calls this relationship a “mystery” – something that was hidden for generations but has now been revealed through Christ. Today, this mystery continues to create tension, especially as we witness conflicts in the Middle East and debates among Christians about Israel.
What is the Mystery Paul Reveals?
In Ephesians 3, Paul explains that he was called to reveal a mystery that had been concealed for many generations. This mystery is simple yet profound: “the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body and partakers of the precious promise in Christ Jesus.”
For centuries, God’s covenant relationship was primarily with the Jewish people. Through Jesus, the door was opened for all nations to become part of God’s family. This wasn’t replacing the Jewish people – it was expanding God’s family to include everyone who believes.
Why Does This Create Spiritual Warfare?
Paul mentions that this mystery is to be made known “to the rulers and authorities in heavenly places.” There’s a spiritual battle raging over this truth. Satan doesn’t want us to understand our inheritance as Gentiles grafted into the Jewish faith, nor does he want us to honor the Jewish people properly.
The enemy works to create division in two ways:
- Making Gentiles proud and anti-Semitic, causing them to reject their Jewish heritage in faith
- Leading people into idolatry of Judaism, causing them to return to legalistic practices rather than resting in Christ’s finished work
What Does Romans 11 Teach About Israel’s Future?
Romans 11 provides crucial insight into God’s ongoing plan for the Jewish people. Paul asks, “Has God rejected his people?” His answer is emphatic: “By no means!”
The Remnant Principle
Throughout history, God has always preserved a remnant of faithful Jewish people. Today, this includes Messianic Jews who have accepted Jesus as their Messiah, as well as God-fearing Jews who are seeking the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Temporary Hardening
Paul explains that “a partial hardening has come upon Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.” This hardening is not permanent. God has a plan to soften Jewish hearts and reveal Jesus to them in greater measure.
The Olive Tree Illustration
Paul uses the metaphor of an olive tree to explain the relationship between Jews and Gentiles. Gentiles are “wild olive shoots” grafted into the cultivated olive tree of Israel. We don’t support the root – the root supports us. This should create humility, not pride.
Are Jewish People Enemies or Beloved?
Paul presents what seems like a contradiction: “As regards to the Gospel, they are enemies for your sake. But as regards to election, they are beloved for the sake of their forefathers.”
This tension explains much of the current debate among Christians. Jewish people who haven’t accepted Jesus are “enemies” in the sense that they oppose the Gospel message. Yet they remain “beloved” because of God’s covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
The key insight is that “the gifts and callings of God are irrevocable.” God doesn’t abandon His promises, even when people fail to live up to them.
How Do Different Christians View Israel Today?
There are three main theological positions regarding Israel:
Replacement Theology
This view teaches that the Church has completely replaced Israel in God’s plan. All Old Testament promises are now fulfilled spiritually in the Church, with no future role for ethnic Israel.
Fulfillment Theology
This position sees Jesus as the true Israel, with the Church participating in Israel’s promises. There’s debate within this view about whether some prophecies will still be fulfilled literally in Israel.
Dispensational Theology
This perspective maintains that Israel and the Church are distinct in God’s plan, with specific end-times prophecies yet to be fulfilled for ethnic Israel and the nation of Israel.
What Can Christians Agree On?
Despite theological differences, most evangelical Christians agree on several key points:
- God has not rejected the Jewish people
- Jewish people must be saved through Jesus, just like everyone else
- Romans 11 points to a future turning of many Jewish people to Christ
- Israel still holds significance in God’s redemptive story
How Should This Affect Our Politics?
While Christians may agree on biblical principles, this doesn’t automatically translate to uniform political positions regarding modern Israel. Some Christians support the modern nation of Israel based on respect for Jewish people and belief in their biblical significance. Others emphasize the New Testament’s focus on God’s kingdom in Christ, leading them to support peace and justice for all people in the region.
The key is maintaining unity on biblical truth while allowing for respectful disagreement on political applications.
What About Anti-Semitism?
Throughout history, the Jewish people have faced repeated attempts at destruction – from ancient Assyrians and Babylonians to modern threats from groups like Hamas and Iran. This pattern suggests a spiritual dimension to anti-Semitism that goes beyond mere political disagreement.
Christians must be careful not to be influenced by demonic spirits that would lead to prejudice against Jewish people. Having political critiques or disagreements about specific policies is different from harboring hatred or supporting genocide.
The Call to Pray for Jerusalem
Psalm 122:6 commands us to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” This isn’t just about politics – it’s about God’s heart for His people and His holy city. We can pray for:
- An end to violence and war
- Safety for all people in the region
- Spiritual awakening among Jewish people
- Justice and righteousness to prevail
- God’s will to be accomplished
Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to examine your heart regarding the Jewish people and Israel. Are you influenced more by news media and political pundits, or by Scripture? Consider supporting Jewish evangelistic efforts, Messianic Jewish congregations, or humanitarian aid to Israel. Most importantly, pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for God to reveal Jesus to His chosen people.
Ask yourself these questions:
- Do I harbor any prejudice against Jewish people that might be spiritually motivated?
- Am I grateful for my spiritual heritage that comes through the Jewish people?
- How can I honor the Jewish people while still sharing the Gospel with them?
- Am I allowing political disagreements to create division with fellow believers?
- What practical steps can I take to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem”?
Remember, this is a mystery that requires humility, wisdom, and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Our goal should be unity in Christ while we work together to make this mystery known to a watching world.