Israel is God’s Vessel of Redemption

Jesus is Jewish for a reason.

Why do we struggle so much with the idea that God chose a particular people through whom He would bless all peoples?

From Abraham onward, God’s plan has always been universal blessing through a particular nation.

The covenants were given to Israel.

The Messiah came through Israel.

The gospel went out from Israel.

And the kingdom will be restored to Israel.

Gentiles are not blessed apart from God’s covenant purposes for the nation He chose. We are grafted into their promises, not the other way around.

Paul says that Israel’s rejection brought reconciliation to the world. What then will their acceptance be but life from the dead? (Romans 11:15)

Israel’s restoration is not a side issue. It is bound up with the resurrection hope of the nations.

Jesus is not ashamed of the people He elected.

He rejoices to be the Son of David, the King of Israel, and the head of the nation chosen to mediate blessing to the ends of the earth.

When He returns, Israel will finally fulfill her calling under His leadership, and all nations will be blessed through her.

Jesus lived, died, and rose again to make these things certain.

Believing in Jesus means believing He will fulfill the things He and His Father promised in the Law and Prophets. 

Maranatha! - Stephen Holmes