In this thought-provoking theological dialogue, Gabi and Pastor Eric explore the biblical and spiritual legacy of Ishmael, tracing how Abraham’s struggle to trust God’s promise led to Ishmael’s birth and how, despite not being the child of the covenant, Ishmael still received divine blessings. The conversation expands to examine how these blessings extended to Esau and their descendants, complicating the narrative of inheritance and identity in the Middle East. Pastor Eric discusses Islam’s reinterpretation of biblical history—especially its elevation of Ishmael—and how this shift, along with Islamic theology of land ownership, fuels enduring spiritual and territorial conflicts. The discussion highlights how Arab identity has been shaped by a shared sense of spiritual orphanhood and loss, and how Islam appeals to that wound while resisting the message of Christ. Ultimately, the dialogue emphasizes the gospel’s power to reconcile Jews and Arabs into one spiritual family through faith in Jesus, the true heir of Abraham’s promise, and considers how the awakening of Arab believers may one day provoke Israel to rediscover its Messiah.
Israel: An Accident of History, or God’s Miracle in the Middle East? - Part 1 |S6:E1|
In this new season of the House of David podcast, Pastor Eric and his sister Gabi, discuss the deep confusion and division among Christians regarding Israel, the Jewish people, and the modern state of Israel, particularly in light of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. They recount the horrific events of that day, the global response, and the rising wave of antisemitism that followed. The conversation explores the spiritual and historical significance of Zion, addressing misconceptions about Israel’s right to the land and the nature of anti-Zionism. They challenge theological claims that Israel has forfeited its divine covenant and emphasize the biblical foundation of God’s promises to the Jewish people. Throughout, they highlight the broader spiritual battle at play, pointing to prophecy and scripture to frame the ongoing conflict and its implications for Christians and the world.