Allegiance

One of the statements I hear often is this:

“As Christians, we must always stand with Israel.”

Before we repeat that, we should ask an important question:

Which Israel does the Bible mean?

I am not writing this because I oppose the modern nation of Israel. Like every nation, Israel has a right to defend its citizens, and like every nation, its government makes political and military decisions based on its own national interests. America does the same.

But Christians should be careful about giving unconditional allegiance to any earthly nation as though God has commanded it.

The recent conflict with Iran has highlighted something important. Many Americans speak as though our loyalty to Israel should be absolute, yet nations ultimately act in what they perceive to be their own best interests. That is the nature of governments.

Our loyalty, however, belongs first and foremost to King Jesus.

The greater issue is theological.

Many people assume that opposing a policy of the modern State of Israel is equivalent to opposing God’s chosen people. The New Testament simply does not make that equation.

Paul writes,

“Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham.” (Galatians 3:7)

And again,

“If you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” (Galatians 3:29)

In Christ, believing Jews and believing Gentiles are brought together into one people.

Ephesians 2 tells us that Christ has broken down the dividing wall and made the two into one new man.

Peter then speaks to the Church—made up of Jews and Gentiles alike—and says,

“You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation…” (1 Peter 2:9).

God’s covenant people are not defined by nationality but by faith in Jesus Christ.

This does not mean Jewish people are less valuable than anyone else. It does not mean Christians should hate or oppose the nation of Israel. We should pray for the peace of Jerusalem. We should desire justice, peace, and the spread of the Gospel among Jews, Palestinians, Iranians, Americans, and every other people.

But we must not confuse a modern political state with the redeemed people of God.

My support for any nation rises or falls on whether it pursues justice and righteousness—not because it bears a particular name.

My allegiance is not ultimately to America.

My allegiance is not ultimately to Israel.

“For our citizenship is in heaven…” (Philippians 3:20).

The Church is God’s people, purchased by the blood of Christ, gathered from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation.

So when I’m asked whose side I’m on, my answer is simple:

I want to be on God’s side.

His Kingdom is the only Kingdom that will never pass away.