On this week's episode of The Greg Laurie Show, Jeremiah J Johnston, PhD and Greg Laurie discussed why Christians should support Israel. There are three key points for all believers to know. They are as follows.
1. God's Eternal Purpose
From the very beginning, God's master plan included blessing the entire world through Israel. This divine purpose hasn't changed throughout history. As Jesus himself reminded the Samaritan woman at the well: "Salvation is from the Jews" (John 4:22).
The prophets clearly foresaw how Israel's destiny would have global impact. Isaiah 27:6 beautifully describes this: "In days to come Jacob will take root, Israel will bud and blossom and fill all the world with fruit."
Dr. Johnston emphasized that even during Israel's periods of unfaithfulness, God's covenant love and purpose remained steadfast. As Paul writes in Romans 11:1-2, God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew.
2. The Jewish Savior
Our Redeemer, Jesus Christ, came through the line of Israel. The Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7:8-29) promised a descendant of David who would reign forever—a promise fulfilled in Jesus.
Scripture consistently reaffirms this covenant throughout biblical history:
• 1 Chronicles 17:11-14 – God declares David's throne will be established forever
• 2 Chronicles 6:16 – The covenant was reemphasized during the dedication of Solomon's Temple
At Jesus' birth, the angel Gabriel confirmed this eternal promise: "The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob's descendants forever; his kingdom will never end" (Luke 1:32-33).
3. The Future of Israel in God's Plan
During the interview, Johnston highlighted Paul's warning to Gentile believers not to become arrogant toward Israel, reminding them: "You do not support the root, but the root supports you" (Romans 11:18).
While Israel's temporary rejection of the Messiah opened salvation's door to all nations, Paul reveals that their future acceptance will bring nothing less than "life from the dead" (Romans 11:15).
A central theme throughout the discussion was the irrevocable nature of God's love for Israel: "For God's gifts and his call are irrevocable" (Romans 11:29).
The biblical vision isn't Israel diminished or replaced, but Israel restored—bearing fruit that will ultimately fill the whole earth (Isaiah 27:6; Zechariah 8:23).
Key Takeaway
God's covenant with Israel isn't temporary or replaceable—it is eternal. Through Israel came the Messiah, and through Israel will come the full blessing of God's kingdom on earth. This theological understanding forms the foundation for Christian support of Israel today.
This episode offers valuable insights for believers seeking to understand Israel's place in biblical prophecy and God's ongoing redemptive plan for all nations.
