You may have seen the “Evangelical Statement in Support of Israel” a number of us released this week. I’ve shared it below, in case you missed it. Please be fervent in prayer.
In the wake of the evil and indefensible atrocities now committed against the people of Israel by Hamas, we, the undersigned, unequivocally condemn the violence against the vulnerable, fully support Israel’s right and duty to defend itself, and urgently call all Christians to pray for the salvation and peace of the people of Israel and Palestine.
While our theological perspectives on Israel and the Church may vary, we are unified in calling attacks against Jewish people especially troubling as they have been often targeted by their neighbors since God called them as His people in the days of Abraham (Gen. 12:1-3).
Since the inception of the modern state of Israel in 1948, Israel has faced numerous attacks, incursions, and violations of its national sovereignty. The Jewish people have long endured genocidal attempts to eradicate them and to destroy the Jewish state. These antisemitic, deadly ideologies and terrorist actions must be opposed.
Israel stands as a rare example of democracy in a region dominated by authoritarian regimes. The tragic events of October 7th further underscore the importance of democracy in our world and stand as a sober reminder that supporting Israel’s right to exist is both urgent and needed.
In keeping with Christian Just War tradition, we also affirm the legitimacy of Israel’s right to respond against those who have initiated these attacks as Romans 13 grants governments the power to bear the sword against those who would commit such evil acts against innocent life.
Furthermore, we recognize the dignity and personhood of all persons living in the Middle East and affirm God’s love for them as well as His offer of salvation through Jesus Christ to all people.
We also recognize the difficult ministry of Jewish and Palestinian believers who labor for the gospel. We pray for their protection and for God’s blessing on their gospel ministry.
Finally, we call on American policymakers to use their power to take all forms of terrorism seriously and call governments and civil authorities to confront evil work to prevent future attacks so that the innocent and vulnerable will be protected.
May God bring peace to the Middle East.
I have read the statement numerous times, talking and praying through it. As a Christ follower seeking Christ in all things and using the Bible as a reference for all things in this world, I was taken aback by this statement. My disagreement comes in the sense that from my perspective the church as a body of Christ would take a Christ like approach, not one that has the potential to cause division and hatred within the body. As part of the body of Moody Church, I’m open to dialogue to fully understand the affirmation of the Evangelic statement by the Church. As scriptures states iron sharpens iron. The body of Christ within the Church regardless of who must be willing to sharpen each other for the glory of Christ.
Dear Pastor Philip,
Your Evangelical Statement in Support of Israel is one of rare moral clarity and courage.
Deepest gratitude to you and to Moody Church for your unequivocal condemnation
of carnage against the Jewish people. At this historic time where, once again, the Jewish people
have become the universal scapegoat, I pray that your clarion call to stand with Israel
will resonate throughout the world.
As a Jew, I praise Moody’s name and pray that the Lord continues to favor your ministry.