Significant tensions between the United States and Israel continue to be shaped by the perspectives of American evangelicals, despite many Americans not directly connecting Christian evangelism with Israel’s status as a Jewish state since 1948, reports 24brussels.
The 2024 Chicago Council Survey indicates that approximately 13% of Americans, or about 44 million individuals are white evangelical Protestants. Historically aligned with Republican values, 61% of these evangelical Protestants identify as Republicans, with only 9% aligning with the Democratic Party, particularly in the southern United States.
Biblical prophecy and fulfillment
Many evangelicals firmly believe that the existence of Israel is a critical component of biblical prophecy from the Book of Revelation. They argue that a sovereign Jewish nation in Israel is necessary for the second coming of Jesus, which they view as central to Christian theology. This belief establishes a significant divergence in perspectives towards Israel between evangelicals and other Americans.
Pew Research data from 2013 shows that 82% of white evangelical Christians believe God granted Israel to the Jewish people, a view nearly identical to that held by ultra-Orthodox Jews (81%). In contrast, this belief is shared by 55% of all Christians and just 44% of the broader American population.
Religious obligation and covenant theology
Evangelicals’ views on Israel significantly influence their perspectives on U.S. policy. A notable example is the Trump administration’s 2018 decision to move the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, an action that sparked considerable controversy by recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, thereby reversing long-standing international consensus on the city’s status. A University of Maryland poll conducted shortly before the move revealed that while 31% of Americans supported the relocation, nearly two-thirds opposed it. Among evangelicals, however, support was substantial, with 53% in favor.
Christian Zionism and dispensationalism
Christian Zionists express strong opposition to replacement theology, holding that the Jewish people maintain an enduring covenant with God. Despite some problematic attitudes, Jewish leaders often navigate the complex relationship with Christian Zionists, weighing the necessity of their support against underlying objectives that may threaten Jewish survival. Critics like historian Donald Lewis categorize Christian Zionist theology as a “theology of esteem,” distinguishing it from historical antisemitic viewpoints.
This theological stance posits that while Christian Zionism supports Jewish nationalism, it ultimately undermines the status of Judaism as a valid faith, advocating for Jewish conversion as a fulfillment of scripture.
Theological belief in the Jewish role in salvation history
Over two thousand years, Christian perspectives have often overlooked their Jewish roots and responsibilities. Following the Second Vatican Council, the Church has recognized the importance of reevaluating its relationship with the Jewish community, understanding the complexities of Jewish faith, and acknowledging a shared spiritual heritage.
Engaging in meaningful dialogue with Jews can enhance Catholic appreciation of their Jewish counterparts’ relationship with God and the Creator, deepening respect for their beliefs and the distinct ways they articulate an ordered creation and eschatological visions.
Political influence and US foreign policy connections
White evangelicals exhibit a pronounced belief that the U.S. does not provide sufficient support for Israel. Among evangelicals surveyed, 35% feel Washington should increase assistance to Israel, contrasting sharply with only 20% of the general populace. Furthermore, 60% of evangelicals expressed opposition to any limitations on U.S. military aid to Israel, compared to 39% of mainline Protestants and 42% of Catholics.
Despite broader views within American society, the evangelical commitment to Israel often translates into starkly different attitudes towards Palestinians, with some factions depicting them as adversaries. The Heritage Foundation recently advocated for the rejection of refugees from Gaza, arguing that the Palestinian population shows no intent to assimilate into American culture or express loyalty to the U.S. and its allies.
Support for Israel as a step toward the second coming of Christ
There are signs that younger evangelicals may not align as closely with traditional views on Israel’s role in eschatology. However, a considerable segment of the Republican voter base remains influenced by Christian Zionism, complicating efforts to address the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
American Christian Zionists actively support Israel, often disregarding the ramifications of their actions on Palestinians. Through their anticipation of biblical prophecies, they accept, if not endorse, violence against innocent civilians in the name of their faith. While many significant evangelical networks maintain a Zionist position, it is essential to acknowledge that not all evangelicals share this perspective.
