Only Jesus is LORD God and Saviour
The Bible teaches that Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises, the only way to salvation, and the central figure in God’s plan of redemption. All aspects of Scripture point to Jesus and His role in establishing God’s kingdom and providing salvation for humanity, including the promise made to Abraham’s seed, which encompasses all who believe in Christ.
You cannot read the Bible without acknowledging God for who He is.
You cannot read and understand the Bible without Prayer and Faith.
You cannot read the Bible and neglect Jesus (referred to as LORD, Jehovah, Yahweh) as the central figure of all its contents.
Always ask yourself: What does this passage say or teach about Jesus and His message?
Romans 7:22-25
‘For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: but I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.’
The Bible as True and Inspired: The Bible is considered true and inspired by God. It is written by holy men of God who were moved by the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:19-21; Luke 21:15). Prophets like Jeremiah, Moses, Isaiah and many more like Micah were given divine words to speak (Jeremiah 1:9; Exodus 4:12-13; Isaiah 50:4; Micah 5:2-4).
Jesus is God: Jesus is identified as God from the beginning, the first and the last, God Almighty, with various names such as LORD, Jehovah, Yahweh and The Word. He is the Creator of all things and the only way to salvation (John 1:1-5, 14; Colossians 1:15-20; Hebrews 1:1-3; Genesis 17:1; Exodus 6:3; Isaiah 44:6; Revelation 1:8; Revelation 11:17; Isaiah 44:6; Acts 4:12).
Jesus’ Covenant with Abraham’s Descendants: Jesus, identified as the LORD, appeared to Abraham and established a covenant with him and his descendants through Isaac and Jacob (Genesis 18:1-8; Exodus 6:2-3). The promise made to Abraham’s children extends to all who believe in Jesus, as seen in Galatians 3:28-29; Ephesians 3:6; Romans 9:7-8.
Galatians 3:28-29
” 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
Ephesians 3:6
6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:
Romans 9:7-8
7 Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. 8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.
These verses emphasises that those who belong to Christ (through faith in Him) are considered Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise made to Abraham. This means that the promise of blessings extends beyond physical descendants to include all who have faith in Jesus Christ.
Remind yourselves when Jesus spoke to the unbelieving Jews or when the prophesy warns us about people that say they are Jews but are not.
John 8:39-47
39 They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham. 40 But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham. 41 Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God. 42 Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me. 43 Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. 44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. 45 And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. 46 Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? 47 He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.
Revelation 2:9
9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.
Revelation 3:9
9 Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.
New Covenant and Salvation through Jesus: Jesus unveiled the new covenant through His sacrifice, fulfilling the old covenant and providing salvation for all who believe in Him. The law served as a tutor leading to faith in Jesus, who is the only way to salvation (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Hebrews 9:15; Matthew 26:28; John 14:6; Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:5-11; Romans 10:9; Ephesians 2:8-9; 1 John 5:11-12; Galatians 3:24-25; Romans 10:4; Romans 7:6).
Future Kingdom: Believers now await a new kingdom, where God Himself will rule. Jesus will reign until all enemies are put under His feet, and then He will deliver the kingdom to God the Father (1 Corinthians 15:22-28; Luke 22:18; Matthew 25:34; Revelation 11:15; Revelation 21:1-4).
The essence of the biblical teachings emphasizes that there is no distinct path to God’s final plan based on one’s ethnicity or heritage, as reiterated throughout the Scriptures. The focal point remains Jesus Christ, who embodies the fulfillment of God’s promises and serves as the singular means of salvation for all humanity. As elucidated in Galatians 3:28-29 and other passages, those who belong to Christ are considered Abraham’s seed and heirs to the promise, irrespective of their background. The covenant established with Abraham’s descendants extends beyond physical lineage to encompass all who believe in Jesus. Hence, the emphasis shifts from ethnic identity to faith in Christ as the defining factor. Jesus’ discourse with unbelieving Jews, as depicted in John 8:39-47, underscores the importance of genuine faith over mere lineage. Furthermore, Revelation warns against those who falsely claim to be of Jewish descent, emphasizing the primacy of true faith in Christ. Ultimately, salvation is through Jesus alone, as He ushered in the new covenant, fulfilling the law and providing salvation for believers. Thus, the focus should never be on ethnic distinctions but on embracing Jesus as the central figure and sole means of salvation in God’s redemptive plan.
The anticipation of Jesus’ return carries profound implications, as it signifies the culmination of God’s plan for redemption and the final judgment of humanity. This event will not herald Jesus’ arrival to establish an earthly kingdom but will instead unveil the full wrath of God upon the world. As stated in Revelation 19:11-16, Jesus will return as a conquering king, leading the armies of heaven, and executing judgment with righteousness. The imagery of Jesus coming on a white horse with eyes like flames of fire illustrates His authority and sovereignty over all creation. In Matthew 24:29-31, Jesus Himself foretold of His return with power and great glory, accompanied by angels who will gather His elect from the ends of the earth. This moment signifies the ultimate separation between the righteous and the unrighteous, as described in Matthew 25:31-46, where Jesus will judge all nations, rewarding the righteous with eternal life and condemning the wicked to everlasting punishment. Therefore, the prospect of Jesus’ second coming carries a weighty reminder of the finality of judgment and the necessity of preparedness for His imminent return.
1. Is ethnic Israel still God’s chosen people today?
Answer: No. The New Testament redefines “true Israel” as those who follow Christ by faith, not by ethnicity (Rom. 2:28–29; Gal. 3:7, 29).
- Romans 9:6–8 – Not all ethnic Israelites are true Israel; only the “children of promise” (in Christ) are heirs.
- Galatians 6:16 – The “Israel of God” refers to the Church, the redeemed in Christ.
Gospel Alignment: Salvation is through faith in Jesus, not ancestry (John 1:12–13; 3:16).
2. Did Jesus abolish God’s promises to Israel?
Answer: No—He fulfilled them (Matt. 5:17). The Old Covenant’s earthly promises (land, temple) pointed to Christ’s eternal Kingdom (Heb. 8:13; 10:1).
- Matthew 21:43 – The Kingdom is taken from ethnic Israel and given to a “nation” (the Church) bearing spiritual fruit.
- Acts 15:14–18 – Gentiles are grafted into God’s people, fulfilling Amos’ prophecy.
Gospel Alignment: Jesus is the true Temple (John 2:19–21) and Land (Matt. 5:5; Heb. 11:16).
3. Should Christians support modern political Zionism?
Answer: No. Zionism (a secular movement for a Jewish state) is distinct from biblical Israel. Our allegiance is to Christ’s Kingdom, not earthly nations (John 18:36; Phil. 3:20).
- Matthew 6:33 – Seek God’s Kingdom first, not political agendas.
- Galatians 4:25–26 – Earthly Jerusalem (like Zionism) is in bondage; the heavenly Jerusalem (the Church) is free.
Gospel Alignment: The Gospel transcends nationalism (Col. 3:11; Gal. 3:28).
4. What about Romans 11:26 (“All Israel will be saved”)?
Answer: This refers to a future mass conversion of Jews to Christ, not automatic salvation for ethnicity (Rom. 11:23–27).
- Zechariah 12:10 – Jews will recognize Jesus as Messiah at His return.
- Romans 11:5 – A remnant of Jews is saved now by grace through faith.
Gospel Alignment: Salvation is always through Christ alone (Acts 4:12; Rom. 10:9–13).
5. Are Jews who reject Jesus still saved?
Answer: No. Salvation is only through faith in Christ (John 14:6; Acts 4:12).
- Romans 10:1–4 – Paul grieves for unsaved Jews who reject Christ.
- John 8:24 – Dying without faith in Jesus means perishing in sin.
Gospel Alignment: There is no salvation outside of Christ (1 John 5:12).
6. What is the “New Jerusalem” in Revelation 21?
Answer: The eternal Church, God’s people (Jew and Gentile) united in Christ—not a political Israel.
- Hebrews 12:22–24 – Believers come to the heavenly Jerusalem.
- Galatians 4:26 – The Jerusalem above is our mother.
Gospel Alignment: Our hope is the New Creation, not earthly kingdoms (Rev. 21:1–4).
7. How should Christians view the modern state of Israel?
Answer: As a geopolitical entity, not a divine mandate. Support justice for all (Palestinians included) and pray for Jewish salvation (Rom. 10:1).
- 1 Corinthians 7:19 – What matters is keeping God’s commands (love, justice), not ethnicity.
- James 2:1 – Favoritism (e.g., toward Jews) violates Christ’s law.
Gospel Alignment: The Church is God’s witness, not nations (Matt. 28:19; 1 Pet. 2:9).
Summary: The Key Message
- Jesus is the fulfillment of all OT promises—not ethnic Israel (2 Cor. 1:20).
- True Israel = the Church (Gal. 3:29; 1 Pet. 2:9–10).
- Salvation is in Christ alone, not ancestry (Rom. 10:12–13).
- Reject nationalism—seek Christ’s Kingdom first (Col. 3:1–2).
Final Scripture:
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:28).
This aligns wholly with the Gospel: Christ is all, and in all (Col. 3:11).
Addendum: Interpreting Israel’s Restoration in Light of Christ
Some argue that the modern State of Israel is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies about a national restoration of ethnic Jews. They cite verses like Ezekiel 36–37, Amos 9:14–15, and Jeremiah 16:14–15, pointing to modern events—such as the 1948 founding of Israel and Jewish immigration—as prophetic fulfillment.
However, this view breaks the consistency of the Bible’s message and misunderstands how the New Testament reinterprets and fulfills these prophecies in Christ and His Church. Here’s what the Bible teaches from Genesis to Revelation:
What the Bible Clearly Teaches (Across All 66 Books)
1. Christ is the Fulfillment of All God’s Promises
“For all the promises of God find their Yes in him.” — 2 Corinthians 1:20
This includes the Abrahamic, Davidic, and prophetic promises. Christ is:
- The true Seed of Abraham (Gal. 3:16)
- The true Temple (John 2:19–21)
- The true Israel (Hosea 11:1 → Matthew 2:15)
- The one who reigns on David’s throne forever (Acts 2:30–36)
- The heir of all covenants
Everything in the Law and Prophets points to Him (Luke 24:44; John 5:39).
2. God’s People Are Defined by Faith, Not Ethnicity
“It is not the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise.” — Romans 9:8
“If you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring.” — Galatians 3:29
- Faith in Jesus—not Jewish heritage—makes someone part of God’s covenant family (Romans 2:28–29; John 1:12–13).
- The Church is made up of believing Jews and Gentiles, united in Christ (Ephesians 2:11–22).
3. Restoration Prophecies Are Applied to the Church in the New Testament
Old Testament prophecies of Israel’s restoration are reinterpreted by the apostles and applied to the multi-ethnic Church:
| Old Testament Prophecy | New Testament Fulfillment |
|---|---|
| Amos 9:11–12 – Rebuilding David’s tent | Acts 15:14–17 – Inclusion of Gentiles in Christ |
| Jeremiah 31:31–34 – New Covenant | Hebrews 8:8–13 – Fulfilled in Jesus |
| Hosea 1:10; 2:23 – “Not my people” made God’s people | Romans 9:25–26 – Applied to Gentile believers |
| Isaiah 49:6 – Light to Gentiles | Luke 2:32 – Fulfilled in Christ |
| Isaiah 56:6–7 – All nations in God’s house | Matthew 21:13 – Jesus applies it to His ministry |
The apostles saw the true restoration as the gathering of God’s people—Jew and Gentile—into one body in Christ (Ephesians 3:6).
4. Land, Temple, and Kingdom Are Fulfilled Spiritually in Christ
The Old Testament types—land, temple, and kingdom—are fulfilled not through political means, but spiritually in Jesus:
| OT Type | NT Fulfillment |
|---|---|
| Land | Abraham’s inheritance = the whole world (Romans 4:13) |
| Temple | The Church is God’s dwelling (1 Corinthians 3:16; Ephesians 2:21–22) |
| Kingdom | Christ’s kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36); it is within believers (Luke 17:21) |
Believers now await the New Creation (Revelation 21:1–4), not a geopolitical reign from earthly Jerusalem.
What About Unfulfilled Old Testament Prophecies?
Some point to Ezekiel 40–48 or Zechariah 14, which describe:
- A restored temple
- Animal sacrifices
- A reign from Jerusalem
But the New Testament never reaffirms a return to temple worship or Old Covenant rituals:
- Hebrews 8:13 – The old covenant is “obsolete.”
- Hebrews 10:1–14 – Christ is the final and sufficient sacrifice.
- Galatians 4:26 – The focus is now on the Jerusalem above, not below.
- John 4:21–24 – Worship is no longer tied to a place, but done in Spirit and truth.
The OT prophecies were shadows, and Christ is the substance (Colossians 2:16–17).
Misreading Prophecy Breaks the Unity of Scripture
To say God’s promises are fulfilled outside of Christ—based on DNA or modern migration—violates the unified message of the Gospel.
“They are not all Israel who are descended from Israel.” — Romans 9:6
“He is not a Jew who is one outwardly… but inwardly.” — Romans 2:28–29
God is faithful to Israel—but “Israel” is redefined in Christ as all who believe (Galatians 6:16).
Key Takeaways
- The return of ethnic Jews to modern Israel is historically remarkable but not the prophetic fulfillment described in Scripture.
- The true restoration of Israel happens in Christ and through the New Covenant, not through the rebirth of a political nation.
- Modern Zionism is not the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.
- The Church is the restored “Israel of God” (Gal. 6:16), made up of all who believe—Jew and Gentile alike.
- The goal of prophecy is Christ, not nationalism, land, or ethnicity.
Final Conclusion
From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible consistently teaches that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of all God’s promises. The people of God are those who belong to Christ by faith, not by ancestry. The restoration of Israel, the New Covenant, the Kingdom of God—all point to and are fulfilled in Jesus.
“There is neither Jew nor Greek… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” — Galatians 3:28
“Christ is all, and in all.” — Colossians 3:11
Posted in Religion by PE Van Blerk with comments disabled.