What does the Bible say about supporting Israel or Palestine?

The question of supporting Israel or Palestine is a complex and multifaceted issue that touches on theology, ethics, history, and contemporary geopolitics. The Bible, as the sacred text of Christianity, offers various perspectives that can inform a Christian's understanding of this issue. However, it is important to approach this topic with humility, recognizing the diversity of opinions within the Christian community and the sensitivity of the subject matter.

From a biblical perspective, the land of Israel holds significant theological importance. The Old Testament, particularly the Torah, recounts God's covenant with Abraham, promising him and his descendants the land of Canaan (Genesis 12:1-3, 15:18-21). This covenant is reiterated to Isaac and Jacob, establishing a divine connection between the Jewish people and the land of Israel. The narrative of the exodus from Egypt and the conquest of Canaan under Joshua further solidifies this connection (Exodus 3:8, Joshua 1:2-6).

The prophets also speak of the restoration of Israel. For instance, the book of Ezekiel contains visions of the return of the Jewish people to their land and the rebuilding of the temple (Ezekiel 37:21-28). These prophecies have been interpreted by some Christians as having contemporary relevance, particularly in light of the establishment of the modern state of Israel in 1948.

In the New Testament, Jesus' ministry takes place within the historical land of Israel, and he identifies himself as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies (Matthew 5:17-18). However, Jesus also redefines the concept of the kingdom of God, emphasizing a spiritual rather than a territorial kingdom (Luke 17:20-21, John 18:36). The apostle Paul further expands this idea, teaching that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Gentile, but all are one (Galatians 3:28). This theological shift suggests that the focus of the Christian faith is not on a specific piece of land but on the spiritual community of believers.

Given these biblical foundations, how should a Christian approach the modern political conflict between Israel and Palestine? It is essential to recognize that the Bible does not provide explicit instructions for contemporary political situations. Instead, it offers principles that can guide our thinking and actions.

First, the Bible calls for justice and peace. The prophet Micah famously declares, "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God" (Micah 6:8). Similarly, Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount emphasize peacemaking and reconciliation (Matthew 5:9, 5:23-24). These principles suggest that Christians should seek solutions that promote justice and peace for all people involved in the conflict.

Second, the Bible emphasizes love for one's neighbor. When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus replies, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:37-39). In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus illustrates that our neighbor includes those who are different from us, even those we might consider enemies (Luke 10:25-37). This teaching challenges Christians to show compassion and empathy for both Israelis and Palestinians, recognizing their shared humanity and the suffering experienced by both sides.

Third, the Bible calls for prayer and intercession. The apostle Paul urges believers to pray for all people, including those in positions of authority, so that we may live peaceful and quiet lives (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Praying for peace in the Middle East, for wisdom for leaders, and for the well-being of all individuals affected by the conflict is a way Christians can actively participate in seeking a resolution.

In addition to these biblical principles, it is valuable to consider insights from Christian literature and thought. For instance, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian and pastor, wrote extensively on the ethics of peace and justice. In his book "The Cost of Discipleship," Bonhoeffer emphasizes the importance of living out the teachings of Jesus, even in difficult and complex situations. His life and writings remind us that following Christ often requires courage and a commitment to justice, even when it is costly.

Furthermore, the concept of "Just War" theory, developed by early Christian thinkers like Augustine and later by Thomas Aquinas, provides a framework for evaluating the morality of conflict. While this theory primarily addresses the ethics of war, its principles—such as the necessity of a just cause, proportionality, and the protection of non-combatants—can also inform our approach to supporting or opposing political actions and policies.

Ultimately, the question of supporting Israel or Palestine is not one that can be answered definitively by a single biblical passage or theological principle. It requires careful consideration of the historical context, the current realities on the ground, and the ethical implications of various courses of action. Christians are called to engage with this issue thoughtfully, prayerfully, and with a commitment to justice and peace.

In practical terms, this might mean advocating for policies that promote a two-state solution, supporting humanitarian efforts that aid both Israelis and Palestinians, and engaging in dialogue with individuals and communities on both sides of the conflict. It also means being willing to listen and learn from those who are directly affected by the situation, recognizing that our understanding is always limited and that true peace requires the participation and cooperation of all parties involved.

In conclusion, while the Bible provides a foundation for understanding the theological significance of the land of Israel and offers principles for pursuing justice and peace, it does not prescribe a specific political stance on the modern conflict between Israel and Palestine. Christians are called to navigate this complex issue with a commitment to love, justice, and peacemaking, seeking solutions that honor the dignity and rights of all people involved.