The Bible provides a profound understanding of being part of God’s chosen people, True Israel. Many associate “Israel” with the modern nation. However, Scripture shows that being an Israelite transcends physical lineage and geography. In Romans 2:28–29, the Apostle Paul clarifies that being a Jew, or an Israelite, involves more than outward signs like circumcision or nationality. It requires an inward transformation, what Paul calls “circumcision of the heart.” This internal change is crucial for understanding who God’s people are and what they stand for.
The Bible stresses that unity among believers is essential. It says, “A house divided against itself cannot stand,” highlighting the need for unity not just in presence but in heart and spirit. True believers must unite in their commitment to God’s truth, reflecting their deeper spiritual identity.
Where is True Israel?
According to the New Testament, True Israel is defined not by physical descent or location but by faith in Jesus Christ. Paul explains in Romans 9:6-8 that “not all who are descended from Israel are Israel.” This means that being part of God’s chosen people depends on spiritual identity, not merely ethnic lineage. True Israel includes those who have embraced faith in Christ, both Jews and Gentiles, united under the new covenant. Paul refers to believers as the “Israel of God” in Galatians 6:16. This shows that the true people of God are those who follow Christ, regardless of their heritage. True Israel, therefore, is a spiritual community made up of all who have faith in Jesus and are transformed by the Holy Spirit, scattered around the world as part of God’s people.
Internal Renewal Through Jesus Christ
Paul’s teachings show that being part of Israel involves internal renewal through the Spirit, not just following external rituals. This perspective changes our view of modern conflicts involving Israel. Physical wars, especially in the Middle East, continue, but the Bible teaches that the real battle is spiritual. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers, and spiritual wickedness in high places.”
Therefore, supporting Israel means standing with the spiritual people of God—those transformed in their hearts, regardless of their physical origin. While defending the modern state of Israel is commendable, Christians must also support spiritual Israel—the believers in Christ who have undergone heart transformation. This includes advocating for all oppressed and marginalized people, reflecting Christ’s love and embodying spiritual renewal.
You Cannot Be God’s Chosen People and Not Believe in Jesus Christ
The belief that one can be part of God’s chosen people without faith in Jesus Christ contradicts the New Testament’s core message. Scripture clearly states that Jesus fulfills God’s covenant with His people. In John 14:6, Jesus declares, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This statement underscores that faith in Christ is essential for anyone claiming to be part of God’s chosen people. Without recognizing Jesus as the Messiah, the foundation of salvation is missing. The New Testament emphasizes that reconciliation with God, for both Jews and Gentiles, happens through Christ, who brings them into God’s spiritual family.
Paul explains in Romans 11 that while Israel has a significant role in God’s plan, true membership in God’s chosen people is rooted in faith in Jesus. Paul describes those who reject Christ as branches broken off from the olive tree. Those who accept Him, whether Jew or Gentile, are grafted in. To be part of God’s chosen people, one must accept Jesus as the Savior—the sole mediator between God and humanity. Faith in Christ defines being chosen by God, and without it, one cannot genuinely claim to be part of His people.
How Do We Stand With Israel?
Understanding True Israel calls believers to a broader sense of responsibility. In Galatians 3:28-29, Paul writes, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” This passage shows that anyone with faith in Christ is part of Abraham’s spiritual family and, by extension, part of Israel. Believers should walk in unity and show Christ’s love, demonstrating that True Israel transcends race, culture, or physical descent, and consists of those transformed by faith.
This spiritual perspective on Israel also challenges us to rethink our approach to the modern world. While supporting political causes and humanitarian efforts is important, Christians must focus on the spiritual reality behind physical issues. Our battles are not just political or territorial but rooted in a spiritual conflict requiring prayer, discernment, and faith in God’s Word. By standing with True Israel—the spiritual community of believers—we align with God’s Kingdom and His eternal purposes, seeking to bring healing, peace, and salvation to all through Christ.
Concluding Thoughts
In conclusion, the Bible teaches that True Israel consists of those transformed inwardly by God’s Spirit. As followers of Christ, we are called to stand with and for these spiritual Israelites, uphold the truth of God’s Word, and show love and unity to all people. God promises to bless those who align with His people, and our responsibility is to live according to this truth.
