The State of Israel stands as the world’s sole Jewish nation, boasting an extensive and profound history. The selection of Israel as His favored nation by God[1] has consistently intrigued and sparked discussions. This unique bond with the Israeli people commenced with God’s initial call to Abraham.
Why did God choose Israel? Through His covenant with the nation of Israel, God provided an example of faithfulness that still resonates today. Most importantly, it is from the lineage of Israel that our Messiah, Jesus Christ, was born.
Key Takeaways
- Israel is unique due to its profound historical, cultural, and spiritual significance, serving as a model nation and the birthplace of key figures in Christian theology.
- God chose Israel as His chosen people to demonstrate His faithfulness, fulfill His promises, and provide a lineage for Jesus Christ, highlighting the nation’s pivotal role in biblical history.
- Israel’s future is marked by continued importance and influence, as it is prophesied to lead in the return of Jesus Christ, fulfilling God’s long-standing promises and covenants with humanity.
Contents
Is Israel Special?
The LORD did not set His affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the LORD loved you and kept the oath He swore to your forefathers that He brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery, from the power of Pharaoh king of Egypt.
— Deuteronomy 7:7–8
Israel is special because it has long been a source of fascination for people across the world. Its unique position as a nation surrounded by hostile countries, its history as the birthplace of Judaism and Christianity, and its status as the only democracy in the Middle East make it a special nation in many ways.
The nation of Israel is home to some of the world’s most advanced technology, including military technology and medical advances. It has also been at the forefront of peace initiatives with its neighbors, such as Egypt and Jordan. Furthermore, its vibrant culture is filled with festivals and celebrations that draw people from around the globe.
God created Israel as a special nation that stands out from other nations in many ways. Its unique biblical purpose, history, culture, and technological advancements make it an important part of our global society today.
Israel was home to many key figures in Christian theology. Eli’s legacy in the Bible, for example, extends beyond his lifetime, as his name is remembered for his role in the early history of Israel and his influence on the upbringing of Samuel, who later became a renowned prophet and judge.
Does God Show Favoritism To Israel?
The perception of God’s favoritism toward Israel has been debated for centuries and continues to be discussed among theologians today. The Bible does not explicitly answer this question, but it does provide clues about the relationship between God and Israel.
We can look at the history of Israel and its relationship with God, as well as the promises that were made to them, in order to gain insight into this question. In addition, we can look at how other nations are treated in relation to Israel in order to understand if there is any special favoritism given by God.
God chose Israel for a special purpose. He bestowed on them an opportunity to serve as the model nation of His righteousness and way of life. As such, He blessed Israel because of their faith and obedience to our forefathers. But they failed to exist and thrive as a model nation according to God’s purposes. However, God still has a covenant and special purpose for the descendants of Israel, now and in the future.
In essence, God did not necessarily give favoritism to Israel but bestowed on them gifts and a “special appointment” for the rest of humanity to emulate. Today, all are equal and have similar standing before the eyes of God, regardless of race, color, and nationality.
Why Did God Choose Israel To Be His Chosen People?
Jesus Christ: The Progeny Of Israel
Jesus Christ is the central figure of Christianity, and He is the reason for many people’s faith. But Jesus was also a descendant of the nation of Israel, a people who were chosen by God to bring His message to humanity. The incarnation of Christ is a promise God realized for the Israelites. As the Messiah, Jesus’ life and teachings are deeply intertwined with the history and culture of Israel.
Fulfillment Of A Promise To Abraham
From Abraham’s call to be the father of many nations, through Moses’ leading his people out of slavery, to modern-day Israel, God has kept His promise. Our faithful God blessed His people with a homeland.
The Bible tells us that God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations and that one day his descendants would possess the land between the rivers. Genesis 12:2–3 reads, “And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great, and be thou a blessing; I will bless them that bless thee, and him that curseth thee will I curse; and in thee shall all the families of the earth be blessed.”
This promise was fulfilled when Israel became an independent nation in 1948 after centuries of exile. Today, millions worldwide look to Israel as a fulfillment of this ancient promise from God.
To Serve As A Model Nation
God chose the nation of Israel to be a model of faith and obedience to the whole world. God chose it as an example of what it means to live in faith and obedience. Since the time of Abraham, they have been given special instructions from God on how to live their lives according to His will.
The covenant between God and Israel has been an enduring example of how we can live with love, faith, and obedience today. Through the stories of the Old Testament, we can learn about the importance of following God’s commands and trusting in Him even when times are difficult. By looking at Israel’s story, we can better understand what it means to be a faithful follower of God and comprehend the Word of God.
Why Did God Choose Israel And Not Other Nations?
God’s Chosen People
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
— 1 Peter 2:9–10
Throughout the Bible, God has made it clear that Israel is His chosen nation. This posture has puzzled theologians and scholars for centuries. People wonder: Why did God choose Israel to play such an essential role in the history of mankind? The answer lies in the fact that God chose Israel because of their unique spiritual qualities and their willingness to serve Him.
Despite the stubbornness of the Israelites in the desert, God was able to demonstrate His love for mankind and show us how we can live a life of piety, righteousness, and obedience to Him. Moreover, He also wanted to use the nation of Israel as an example of how His laws should be followed by all people so that they could experience His blessings.
A Universal Church
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
— Galatians 3:28
Our Lord God chose Israel as the root of the church of God, as fulfilled by Jesus Christ. People from all over the world joined the church founded by Jesus Christ and led by His apostles. Everybody realized that they were to unite in one body in Christ. Thus, every Christian or member of the church of God is God’s chosen people.
What Is Israel’s Future?
Israel is a country with a long and rich history that continues to shape its future. With its strategic location in the Middle East, Israel has been able to remain an important player in the region and beyond. In recent years, Israel has seen a surge in economic growth and technological advancement, which has made it one of the most innovative countries in the world.
Why Did God Choose Israel As His Appointed Nation?
When Jesus Christ finally returns to earth to usher in God’s kingdom, He will restore Israel to its position of leadership over all the nations. Our faithful God chose Israel to fulfill His promise and covenant with all of the nations.
Summary
The story of Israel is one of the most remarkable stories in history. It is a story of God’s faithfulness to His promises and a testimony to the abounding love and mighty hand of God.
God chose Israel as His appointed people because He wanted them to be the light of the world. He molded them to be a beacon of hope in a world that was slowly being consumed by darkness and despair. In the last days, Israel will once again play the most prominent role in the return of our Messiah, Jesus Christ. God’s promise to Israel and all of mankind will be fulfilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Did God Choose Israel?
God chose Israel to serve as a model nation, to fulfill His ancient promises made to the forefathers like Abraham, and to provide the lineage for the Messiah, Jesus Christ, demonstrating His faithfulness and love for humanity.
Is Israel Considered A Special Nation?
Yes, Israel is considered a special nation due to its unique historical, cultural, and spiritual significance, being the birthplace of Judaism and Christianity, and its role as the only democracy in the Middle East.
Does God Show Favoritism To Israel?
God does not show favoritism in the sense of unjust partiality; however, He chose Israel for a special purpose: to be a model of faith and obedience and to bring His message to humanity through their lineage and history.
What Is The Significance Of Israel In Christian Theology?
In Christian theology, Israel’s significance lies in its relationship with God, its role in the lineage of Jesus Christ, and its position as a central figure in the fulfillment of biblical prophecy and the history of salvation.
What Is The Future Of Israel According To The Bible?
According to the Bible, Israel’s future involves a pivotal role in the end times, including restoration to a position of leadership among nations and a significant part in the return of Jesus Christ, fulfilling God’s promises and covenant with the nation.
Why Is Israel The Root Of The Church Of God?
Israel is considered the root of the church of God because it is from this nation that Jesus Christ emerged, and through Him and His apostles, the church was established, uniting people from all nations into one body in Christ Jesus.