How is it that today’s church can read a Bible rooted in Israel, focused on a Jewish Messiah, and authored by Jewish voices, yet somehow feel disconnected from the Jewish story?
Have we really allowed the narrative of God's chosen people to end 2,000 years ago, when in reality, it’s just getting good?
In this episode, "How Does A Church Stand With Israel?" we dig into the undeniable link between our faith and the ongoing story of Israel - a story still unfolding and intensifying in ways that truly demand our attention.
With longtime friend Pastor Jeremy Mercer of Connection Church in Corona, CA, we look at what it means to stand with Israel as a church. Jeremy shares how his church actively supports and prays for the Jewish people, building a community that stands with Israel not out of politics but as a fulfillment of biblical promises.
Together, we walk through strategies for making Israel a priority in our own churches and why, now more than ever, this matters deeply. On the other side of this conversation, you’ll have a better idea of how to embrace God’s promises for Israel and move from passive awareness to active blessing.
Key Points:
- Faith in Action: Pastor Jeremy emphasizes how his church’s love for Israel goes beyond words, actively supporting and praying for the Jewish people.
- Scriptural Foundation: The importance of understanding scripture in context, seeing the connection between Old and New Testaments, and grasping the Jewish roots of the faith.
- Genuine Connection: Through long-lasting friendships and community support, Pastor Jeremy illustrates the power of relationships in ministry.
- Responding to Current Events: Reflecting on the significance of supporting Israel during turbulent times, especially following recent events in Israel.
- Teaching Contextually: The need for pastors to preach boldly on Israel's role in God’s plan, countering replacement theology and embracing the full narrative of scripture.
Pull Quotes:
- "Without the Jewish story, we miss the full picture of God’s love story for His people."
- "Our role as the church is not political but biblical when it comes to standing with Israel."
- "Supporting Israel is more than a stance, it’s a journey of faithfulness to God’s promises."
Chapter Markers:
- 0:10 - 4:30: Introduction: Reconnecting with Pastor Jeremy and His Journey to Ministry
- 4:30 - 9:15: Faith and Friendship: Growing Up with Israel in Their Hearts
- 9:15 - 13:50: Biblical Foundations: How Scripture Informs Our Stand with Israel
- 13:50 - 18:30: Ministry Focus: Connection Church’s Commitment to Israel
- 18:30 - 23:00: Responding to Current Events: Praying for the Peace of Jerusalem
- 23:00 - 28:30: Humility in Ministry: How Pastors Can Seek Support and Wisdom
- 28:30 - 33:20: Supporting Israel Practically: Tips for Churches and Individuals