Biblical Prophecy

The Return of Christ and The Restoration of Israel

The Return of Christ and The Restoration of Israel

It is an undisputed tenet of Christianity that Jesus will return, and when He does, He will fully usher in the Kingdom of God. The prophet Zechariah declared: “Therefore thus says the LORD: I am returning to Jerusalem with mercy; My house shall be built in it, says the LORD of hosts, And a surveyor’s line shall be stretched out over Jerusalem” (Zechariah 1:16). At the end of His earthly ministry, Jesus ascended to Heaven from the Mount of Olives. Two angels who stood there spoke to the disciples, saying, “This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11). Jesus is returning to Jerusalem in the clouds with power and great glory. Every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him.

Israel—God’s Covenant Nation

Israel—God’s Covenant Nation

There is a growing theological shift, especially amongst younger Evangelical Christians, that has led to the belief that the church is the fulfillment of the covenant promises given to Israel and, in a sense, has become a “new” Israel. The verses most often quoted are from Paul’s writings to the Galatians, where he closes with these words: “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God” (Galatians 6:15-16). Looking at the broader context, Paul is speaking to a mixed, but likely predominantly Gentile audience, who are being persuaded to follow the Law of Moses. The Jewish congregants were likewise being persuaded to return to the Mosaic Law. Rightfully so, Paul was correct to tell the Galatians not to return to the Old Covenant, but rather to hold steadfastly to the New Covenant, which has made us a new creation in Christ.