Ask Doc: What dangers exist in Christian Zionism? - Matthew
FIVE-POINT BUILDER
1) Matthew 22:21 (KJV): "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's." — We recognize proper authority and spiritual allegiance.
2) Romans 13:1 (KJV): "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers..." — God ordains earthly governments, reminding us their authority is under His sovereignty.
3) Jeremiah 17:9 (KJV): "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked..." — Our desires can easily lead to misplaced hopes and errors.
4) Galatians 6:14 (KJV): "But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ..." — Our ultimate hope is not in earthly nations but in Christ's redemptive work.
5) John 18:36 (KJV): "My kingdom is not of this world..." — Christ reigns in a kingdom beyond earthly political systems.
WORD STUDY
Zionism (from Hebrew צִיּוֹן "Tziyyon") — historically a Jewish nationalist movement; Christian Zionism applies it theologically often to support modern Israel with spiritual motives.
INSIGHT
Christian Zionism often grows from a sincere desire to bless Israel and await Christ’s return. Yet the danger lies in conflating God’s eternal promises with earthly political agendas. Scripture calls believers to honor earthly authorities but to place their ultimate hope and allegiance in Christ alone. When political support replaces gospel proclamation, it risks idolatry and neglects God's broader purposes for the Church and the nations. The promise to Abraham was fulfilled supremely in Christ, who gathers His people by faith from every nation. We must guard against allowing political nationalism to eclipse our primary identity in the body of Christ.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION
- Ground your hope firmly in Jesus as King and Savior, not in any earthly political entity.
- Pray for Israel and the nations with discernment, seeking God’s will above all.
- Test teachings on Zionism by Scripture and the Apostles’ Creed, affirming Christ’s lordship alone.
- Engage your church community in biblical missions that proclaim Jesus’ gospel universally.
- Resist temptation to politicize your faith; seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.
CLOSING PRAYER
Heavenly Father, help us to place our hope fully in Your Son Jesus Christ, the King of kings. Guard our hearts from trusting in earthly powers more than You. Teach us to love Israel and all nations with Your love, yet hold fast to the gospel above political causes. Keep us faithful witnesses of Your truth. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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