Christian Support for Israel and America
On June 15th, Christian author Owen Strachan tweeted, “As an evangelical Christian, I stand with Israel without embarrassment or apologies.” This tweet expresses his alignment with the Israeli people amidst the ongoing conflict with Iran. Strachan appears to link support for Israel to a broader evangelical identity, hinting at a theological relationship, although he doesn’t delve into the specifics in that tweet.
In response, I shared my own thoughts on Twitter, stating, “As an American Christian, I stand with America.”
It’s important for Christians to hope (and pray) for the welfare of all nations, especially their own.
While I aimed to clarify that my statement was not about endorsing Israeli policies, it doesn’t imply a disregard for Iran either. My point is that I wish for our communities to avoid unnecessary foreign interventions, especially at the cost of American lives.
As a Presbyterian pastor, I adhere to a principle known as church spirituality, which emphasizes that the church’s mission should remain primarily spiritual. Therefore, political statements from the church ought to be made only when requested by civil authorities or during extraordinary circumstances.
We generally shy away from bringing politics into sermons unless it pertains directly to Christian duties regarding civic responsibilities. Although I am a pastor in the Presbyterian Church in America, my views on this matter are expressed as a citizen, rather than in my pastoral capacity.
Still, my theological insights shape my opinions on these issues, and I hope they can provide guidance to fellow Christians.
Israel and Christianity
Two key theological questions arise regarding support for the Israeli state. The first concerns the connection between Israel and the Bible.
From a reformed theological standpoint, I view the church as the “Israel of God” (Galatians 6:16). This doesn’t mean the church replaces Israel; rather, it signifies that believers in Christ are the true spiritual offspring of Abraham.
As the Apostle Paul stated, “If you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise” (Galatians 3:29). Thus, Christians inherit the Old Testament promises made to Abraham.
Those Jews who rejected Christ have been separated from their covenant with God, while Gentiles (non-Jews) who accept Christ are grafted into God’s covenant, described as His “olive tree” (Romans 11:17). There’s ongoing debate within reformed circles regarding the future of the Jewish people (Romans 11:25-26).
Ultimately, I believe that the modern nation of Israel will acknowledge King Jesus, becoming part of His inheritance over all nations (Psalm 2:8).
Reformed theology contrasts sharply with the widely held “dispensationalist” view, which posits two distinct peoples of God and holds that Old Testament promises apply solely to the Jewish people. This perspective often leads to substantial support for modern Israel.
In contrast, reformed theology holds that the promise of land is fundamentally spiritual and fulfilled in Christ, who reigns over all nations (Matthew 28:18-20). Paul viewed the land promises as pertaining to the “promise to Abraham,” implying that believers will inherit the world (Romans 4:13).
From my Christian perspective, I feel no particular allegiance to the contemporary Israeli state. I don’t wish for harm to come to any Israelis; instead, my hope is for them to embrace Christianity. This sentiment extends to all nations, including Israel’s adversaries.
Christianity and National Identity
This brings us to a second theological issue: how Christians relate to their homeland.
I’ve noticed many responses to my tweets suggesting that as a Christian, one shouldn’t align with any earthly nation. I find this viewpoint, frankly, unbiblical.
That doesn’t mean Christians should support every action their government takes. However, I believe we should stand with our country.
Indeed, Paul reminds us that while “our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20), that doesn’t mean we have no earthly citizenship. We are simultaneously united with Christ, but while in our earthly bodies, we are still part of this world. This is why Paul instructs us to “be subject to the governing authorities” (Romans 13:1; 1 Peter 2:13).
God established civil governments for our good. If a government aligns with divine principles, it should protect the church and promote justice. Consequently, Christians ought to be loyal to their nations, especially those with a rich Christian legacy, like the United States.
Applied Christian Loyalty
Christians are dual citizens, and this earthly allegiance is valuable. It reflects the reformed understanding of the two kingdoms. We shouldn’t dismiss our earthly realm, even though it is marred by sin.
Even amid corruption, Christians must support their nations. We should hope, pray, and work for the well-being of all nations, with particular focus on our own. For me, that translates into supporting America above all else. My primary loyalty lies not with Israel, Iran, or any foreign country, but firmly with the United States. As long as that allegiance doesn’t contradict my ultimate loyalty to Jesus Christ, I stand with America.
This perspective aligns with teachings in the Christian tradition, recently echoed by Vice President JD Vance. There’s an order of love that starts within the family unit and extends to one’s own country before others. It’s part of how we love our neighbors, as instructed by Christ (Matthew 22:39).
George Washington, America’s first president, cautioned against entanglement in foreign alliances in his 1796 Farewell Address. Yet, America often finds itself involved in overseas conflicts, in ways that seem contrary to Washington’s wisdom.
It’s frustrating to see our people taxed and even sacrificing their lives for foreign interests, including Israel’s.
So, I say enough is enough. I will pray for both Israel and Iran, seeking peace between them, but my utmost priority is for my fellow Americans. Wars abroad are not in the best interest of my community.
