In light of the ongoing unrest in the Middle East, it's important that we, as a church community, remain rooted in sound doctrine and bear fruit that reflects Christ. This is not a political statement, nor an attempt to align with one side or another. Rather, it's an invitation to view world events through a biblical lens; one that doesn't react to headlines, but instead interprets history and current affairs in light of God’s Word.
The conflict we’re witnessing is not new. It has deep, complex roots and has taken various forms throughout history. From the moment God made a covenant with Abraham, promising to make him a great nation, the people of God have faced opposition. But it’s crucial to remember: God’s promise was to a people, not a government. The covenant is spiritual in nature, not nationalistic.
As followers of Jesus, we affirm that God is faithful to His promises to the Jewish people (see Romans 11). At the same time, we also believe that, through Christ, the mystery of salvation has been revealed: that both Jew and Gentile are united in one body through grace, by faith (see Ephesians 3). The Church is now the people of God, the “new Israel,” grafted into the promises of God through Jesus.
This distinction matters, especially in light of the rise of Dispensationalism, a theological system that teaches God has two separate covenantal plans: one for Jews, and one for Gentiles. This framework has shaped much of modern thinking around topics like the Rapture, a literal 1,000-year earthly tribulation, and the political supremacy of Israel in the life of the believer.
While well-intentioned, we believe Dispensationalism doesn’t stand up to the full weight of Scripture. It often distorts the gospel and distracts believers from the central calling of the Church. So how should we, as believers, think about the ongoing conflict in the Middle East?
First, we affirm the dignity and value of all people. Jewish, Palestinian, Iranian, Afghani, and every other image-bearer in the region. We are called to love them as our neighbors. But none of these national identities are central to Christian theology. Christ is.
When it comes to eschatology (the study of the end times) we must take care to interpret Revelation and other prophetic texts responsibly. That means two things:
This helps us avoid the common pitfall of interpreting Revelation through the lens of current events. Wars, natural disasters, and upheaval in the Middle East have been occurring for centuries. While we may be closer in history to Christ’s return, Scripture is clear: no one knows the day or the hour. Revelation is not a secret code to be cracked.
There is more to be said about end times theology, but here’s what matters most for us today: whether Jesus returns this week, this century, or a thousand years from now, our call remains the same: bear fruit, love our neighbor, and make disciples.
Let us be people who respond not with fear or speculation, but with prayer, wisdom, compassion, and hope. We stand not as commentators, but as heirs with Christ, anchored in truth, committed to love, and confident in the sovereignty of our God.
In Christ,
Ryan Schlachter
NYC Location Pastor
