What is Zionism? What is Christian Zionism?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Zionism connects directly to God's covenantal promises to Abraham regarding the land of Israel. While political Zionism emerged as a movement supporting Jewish return to their ancestral homeland, Christian Zionism views this movement through the lens of biblical prophecy and divine promises. Scripture contains both God's original land covenant with Abraham (Genesis 15:18–21) and later prophetic promises about Israel's restoration to their land (Ezekiel 36:24–28). These biblical themes inform how many Christians understand modern Israel's establishment and continuing right to exist, while recognizing the complex political and social challenges involved.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Genesis 15:18–21: "On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, 'To your offspring I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates.'" This passage establishes God's original land promise to Abraham and his descendants.
• Jeremiah 32:37–38: "Behold, I will gather them from all the countries to which I drove them in my anger... And they shall be my people, and I will be their God." Jeremiah prophesies Israel's future return from exile to their land.
• Ezekiel 36:24: "I will take you from the nations and gather you from all the countries and bring you into your own land." This passage predicts a future regathering of Jewish people to their ancestral homeland.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• Romans 11:1–2: "Has God rejected his people? By no means!... God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew." The New Testament affirms God's continuing relationship with Israel.
• Luke 21:24: "Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled." Jesus speaks of Jerusalem's future, suggesting an eventual restoration.
• Acts 1:6–7 shows early Christian interest in Israel's restoration while emphasizing God's sovereignty in timing.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

While Christians can support Israel's right to exist based on biblical promises, this support should be balanced with concern for justice and peace for all peoples in the region. The establishment of modern Israel in 1948 represents, for many Christians, a partial fulfillment of biblical prophecy, yet we must approach the ongoing conflicts with wisdom, compassion, and recognition of the legitimate needs and rights of all involved parties. This view can help Christians maintain biblical fidelity while engaging thoughtfully with contemporary Middle East issues.

UNDERSTAND

• Zionism advocates for the Jewish return to their ancestral homeland in Israel.
• Christian Zionism interprets the Jewish return as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy and emphasizes Israel's role in God’s plan.
• Both Zionist movements are rooted in God's covenant with Abraham and prophetic promises of restoration.

REFLECT

• What shapes your view of Israel today?
• How can you actively promote peace and justice for both Israelis and Palestinians while holding to biblical truths regarding Israel’s right to the land?
• How does understanding the historical and biblical context of Zionism influence your perspective on modern-day geopolitical issues in the Middle East?

ENGAGE

• Zionism itself is not inherently good or bad; it is a political movement supporting the Jewish return to Israel. However, the complexities of the political situation in Israel and Palestine also necessitate a balanced approach that upholds justice, peace, and human dignity.
• How can Christians engage in conversations about Zionism and Christian Zionism in a way that fosters understanding and compassion among differing viewpoints?
• How might the concept of Christian Zionism challenge or reinforce your understanding of God’s covenant with His people, both Jew and Gentile?