What are the reasons to support Israel?

1. Covenant Foundations

From the earliest pages of Scripture, a unique relationship between the descendants of Abraham and the Creator is established. Genesis 12:2–3 states, “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; … and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you.” This promise is echoed in many passages, indicating a divine covenant that sets Israel apart with a specific role in the unfolding of redemptive history.

Genesis 15 recounts a formal covenant ceremony in which Abraham is assured that his lineage will become a distinct people and inherit a particular land. The continual reaffirmation of this promise—such as in Genesis 17:7–8—emphasizes a bond that is intended to last for generations, demonstrating that the support of Israel is tied to recognizing these covenantal roots.

2. Prophetic Significance and Blessings

The Hebrew Scriptures repeatedly present Israel as playing a vital part in the revealing of divine truth. Through the prophets, God’s instructions and redemptive plan were proclaimed first to Israel and then extended to all nations. Isaiah 49:6 declares, “I will also make you a light for the nations, to bring My salvation to the ends of the earth.”

Supporting Israel can be understood as honoring the channels through which moral law, prophecy, and ultimately the Messiah were disclosed to the entire world. Furthermore, Genesis 12:3 underscores that “I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you,” reflecting an embedded principle that those who uphold Israel receive divine favor.

3. Historical Reliability and Archaeological Corroboration

Substantial archaeological evidence supports the historicity of Israel in the ancient Near East. Discoveries such as the Tel Dan Stele, which references the “House of David,” validate the existence of Israel’s monarchy described in 2 Samuel. The Mesha Stele confirms conflicts between Moab and Israel recorded in 2 Kings.

In Qumran, the Dead Sea Scrolls—including substantial portions of Isaiah—demonstrate the careful preservation of biblical texts. These scrolls not only attest to the reliability of the Old Testament’s transmission but also reinforce the historical presence and literary contributions of Israel throughout centuries. Through such archaeological and textual discoveries, the ancient biblical claims about Israel’s story gain consistent external verification.

4. Israel’s Role in Redemptive History

Central to the broader biblical narrative is the introduction of the Messiah through the lineage of Israel. In Micah 5:2 it is foretold, “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah … out of you will come forth for Me one to be ruler over Israel,” foretelling the birth of Christ in Israel’s territory.

Israel’s significance is not just historical—it is woven into the promise of salvation for all people. Romans 9:4–5 states, “Theirs is the adoption as sons; theirs the divine glory and the covenants; … and from them proceeds the Christ.” Thus, the entire flow of redemption is integrally tied to Israel’s story and existence.

5. Modern Implications and Fulfillment of Prophecy

Some point to modern events—such as the reestablishment of Israel’s statehood in 1948—as part of an ongoing fulfillment of biblical prophecy that speaks about the return of the Jewish people to their land (e.g., Ezekiel 36–37). While interpretations vary, the continued presence and resilience of Israel align with recurring scriptural themes of restoration and preservation despite adversity.

Support for Israel often recognizes the remarkable convergence of historical continuity, cultural identity, and biblical prophecy. The phenomenon of a dispersed population returning to their ancient homeland, preserving language (Hebrew), and reestablishing national sovereignty stands as a striking affirmation of promises recorded in Scripture.

6. Testimony to Faithfulness and Divine Sovereignty

Throughout the biblical text, Israel is portrayed as an example of the Creator’s unwavering faithfulness, even when they fall short. Deuteronomy 7:7–8 stresses that God chose Israel not because of their great size or merit, but because of love and faithfulness to the oath sworn to their forefathers.

Backing Israel can be seen as upholding the biblical witness that God remains steadfast in fulfilling His promises. This covenantal reliability offers encouragement to people of faith everywhere: if God remains faithful to Israel, there is ample basis to trust that He remains faithful to all His promises.

7. Broader Global Impact and Mission

From a practical perspective, Israel’s contributions to global humanitarian aid, technological innovation, and civilization at large mirror elements of concern for the welfare of nations. Yet beyond practical considerations, there is a broader theological strand: Israel was called to be a “light to the nations” (Isaiah 42:6).

Continued support and goodwill toward this historically chosen people affirm the desire to see them remain true to that spiritual calling. By encouraging peace and practical partnerships, nations that support Israel join in aspiring to foster biblical values of justice, charity, and moral responsibility.

8. Scriptural Admonitions and Moral Responsibility

Romans 11:17–18 uses the metaphor of the olive tree to illustrate that non-Jewish believers are grafted in among the original branches. This imagery underscores a shared spiritual heritage. As a result, support for Israel is also an appreciation for the root that nourishes diverse believers.

In a world often marked by hostility, many thus view it as a moral and scriptural imperative to stand with a people who have survived repeated struggles and tribulations. Extending friendship and advocacy for peace is seen as a tangible outworking of biblical hospitality and compassion.

9. Harmonizing Faith and Evidence

The geological and historical data concerning the ancient Levant aligns consistently with the accounts of Israel in Scripture, reinforcing confidence in the biblical record. Findings at ancient sites such as Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer reveal settings consistent with the biblical era. Discussions in modern sciences—be they in historical geography or linguistics—have likewise tracked Israel’s profound influence.

The synergy of scriptural prophecy, recorded events, archaeological affirmation, and observance of ongoing historical phenomena all combine to form a robust foundation for seeing value in supporting Israel. Whether one approaches from a faith conviction, a sense of historical continuity, or an interest in cross-cultural significance, the nation emerges as pivotal in the mosaic of world civilization.

10. Conclusion

Reasons to support Israel include upholding the foundational covenants recorded in Scripture, recognizing the prophetic and historical role they play in redemptive history, and bearing witness to the steadfast faithfulness of God. Archaeological evidence corroborates the land’s rich biblical heritage, while modern developments echo ancient prophetic promises. Standing alongside Israel honors a legacy woven into the spiritual, historical, and ethical framework presented throughout the entirety of Scripture: “For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable” (Romans 11:29).