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Why Christians Should Care About Israel: God’s Plan, Jesus’ Teachings, and Our Eternal Relationship with Him

For Christians, caring about Israel means paying attention to God’s promises, His dwelling intentions with humanity, and the ultimate purpose of His Word. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible is about relationships—our relationship with God and His desire to live with us. Through the centuries, God showed humanity every type of governance: judges, kings, emperors, and even individual self-governance. Yet each system failed without Him at the center.

The lesson? Only God’s Kingdom, with people who love and obey Him, truly works. Jesus emphasized this, warning that only those who do the Father’s will enter Heaven (Matthew 7:21). His life wasn’t just an example but a direct call to live by God’s will. Without understanding Israel’s role here, we miss an essential piece of God’s redemptive plan. You can explore more about Israel’s critical role in prophecy here or learn about pivotal events like the Fall of Jerusalem.

The Foundation of God’s Relationship with Humanity

The Bible is a living testament to God’s undying desire to dwell among His people. From the Garden of Eden to the closing chapters of Revelation, every narrative focuses on this unbroken thread of relational love. God set the blueprint for humanity’s purpose while patiently guiding us through the unfolding history of our choices and failings. Let’s dig into the profound intentions behind God’s relationship with humanity and how they reveal the only governance system that truly works: God Himself reigning over a united, obedient people.

God’s Desire to Dwell with Humanity: Biblical Evidence

If there’s one thing about God’s relationship with humanity that stands out, it’s His unwavering desire to live with us. In the Hebrew Bible, God commands the Israelites in Exodus 25:8, “Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst.” The original Hebrew for “dwell” (שָׁכַן, shakhan) connects directly to the term Shekinah, which signifies God’s visible presence. This isn’t symbolic; it’s God’s intent to be a part of our daily lives—literally.

Later, in Leviticus 26:11-12, God promises, “I will make my dwelling among you, and my soul shall not abhor you. And I will walk among you and will be your God, and you shall be my people.” These verses show that God’s end goal isn’t distant worship from a far-off throne but intimacy—a shared life where He walks with us, much as He did with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:8).

Fast-forward to the New Testament, and the same desire is echoed, magnified through Jesus. John 1:14 states that “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” If you pause here, you’ll find something astonishing: in Greek, the term for “dwelt” (ἐσκήνωσεν, eskenosen) literally means “to pitch a tent” or tabernacle. This is the only time this word is used in this precise context. Jesus embodied the very presence of God. And then Revelation 21:3 culminates the story when we hear, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.”

This theme spans Genesis to Revelation. God wants proximity, unity, and relationship. What’s more, when humans strayed through sin, He didn’t abandon this goal but created ways for His presence to remain—from the Ark of the Covenant to His ultimate sacrifice through Christ. If God’s intention was anything less than to dwell with us, why would His Son take on flesh, die, and rise again?

For additional insights on this, you can explore an excellent resource detailing how the Bible speaks to God’s desire to dwell with His people.

God’s Covenant With Israel as a Model for the Church

Israel’s story isn’t just an ancient history lesson—it’s a template for how God interacts with humanity as a whole. By choosing Israel, God created a visible example of His covenantal love and governance. He didn’t just want individuals to acknowledge Him; He was building a society centered on worship and obedience. God’s promises to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3) were about creating a people through whom all nations would be blessed. This mission isn’t about exclusivity but inclusivity, foreshadowing the Church’s role in the New Testament.

At Mount Sinai, the covenant deepens. Through Moses, God gives the Law as a structure for Israel to live as a holy nation. Yet, human kingship—starting with Saul, anointed reluctantly by Prophet Samuel—only proved humanity’s inability to rule justly apart from God. Time and again, Israel struggled. For example, the era of judges was marked by cycles of rebellion, repentance, and restoration. The kingdom years showed us that even with “good kings” like David, human governance was riddled with flaws, ultimately leading to exile.

Why is this significant? It demonstrates what we see even today in every failed government system: human power alone corrupts and destroys. God allowed humanity to try various government forms—judges, kings, democracies, and empires—but none brought peace or justice because they excluded Him from the center. Simply put, anything less than God’s governance falls short.

This builds toward His eternal plan—God ruling not as a tyrant but as a King among His people who love Him and desire to do His will. When Israel persevered, it wasn’t because of their strength but God’s faithfulness. And the Church, made up of believers in Jesus Christ, now carries forward the essence of what Israel started as a “holy priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9).

For Christians, this connection runs deep. Just as God built nationhood in Israel, He builds spiritual community in His Church today. To understand this better, you can explore how relationships—not religion—are at the core of God’s intentions.

Both covenants teach us something valuable: God’s governance works when His people yield to His will. This obedience isn’t oppressive—it’s liberating. After all, Jesus Himself said in Matthew 7:21, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of Heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in Heaven.” This isn’t about blind following but living a life rooted in love and purpose.

God’s ultimate plan is crystal clear: a kingdom not based on coercion but on relationship. Through Christ, the Church now carries the light that Israel once bore—a continuation of the covenant meant to bridge all of creation back to God. This does not mean that God is done with Israel. In fact, Israel is where that city Abraham was looking for will eventually rest when it comes down from Heaven. It will be a Judaeo-Christian city governed by Jesus.

God’s Lessons Through Biblical Systems of Government

Throughout history, the Bible presents a powerful narrative of God’s desire to remain at the center of humanity’s governance. From the days of the judges to the reign of kings, from prophetic warnings to the teachings of Jesus, we see a recurring message: no human government can succeed without reliance on God. The lessons we’ve inherited from these systems point to our ultimate need for God’s sovereign rule. Let’s explore the unfolding of these truths in Scripture.

The Period of Judges: A Lesson on Disconnection

The Book of Judges vividly recounts an era where Israel lived without a centralized government, but instead with appointed judges to provide leadership. The tagline for this period could easily be Judges 21:25: “In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” They were “woke”. With no king but God Himself, what went wrong?

This timeframe was marked by a cycle—rebellion, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. The people repeatedly turned from God, and their disobedience led to suffering at the hands of surrounding nations. Yet, each time they cried out, God rescued them. Why allow such chaos? God was showing what happens when humanity chooses self-government over obedience to Him.

If we reflect on this, it becomes strikingly clear: human independence consistently led to ruin. Doesn’t this parallel today’s culture, where “self-rule” is idolized? A world without God’s guidance fails, just as Israel’s experiment with decentralized rule faltered. For further reading on how lawlessness clashes with God’s principles, check out Is America Lawless? Shocking Truth That Will Open Your Eyes.

The Kingship Era: Promise, Power, and Pride

Israel’s demand for a king wasn’t part of God’s original design—it was a concession. In 1 Samuel 8:5-7, the Israelites begged Samuel, “Now appoint for us a king to judge us like all the nations.” Samuel was disheartened, but God allowed it, signaling their rejection of Him in favor of human control. All the other nations had a king, so Israel wanted a king so they could be like everyone else.

Enter King Saul, David, and Solomon—the monarchy’s most prominent figures. Saul’s reign began with promise but ended in pride and anxiety. David, “a man after God’s heart,” soared spiritually but fell morally. Solomon, gifted with unmatched wisdom, succumbed to idolatry. Amazingly, even at their best, these kings couldn’t maintain God’s ideal. Their personal flaws became national crises, and after Solomon’s death, the kingdom fractured. What does this teach us? Even the best human leadership, no matter how anointed, is fallible without God.

Scripture doesn’t shy away from exposing their failings, nor does it dilute their significance in God’s plan. The kingship era points to a greater King who would rule forever with justice and righteousness (Isaiah 9:7). By witnessing human kings’ shortcomings, we’re reminded of the futility of putting our trust in human governments alone. Interested in exploring why separating God’s governance from earthly authority has far-reaching consequences? Visit Is the Separation of Church and State Helping or Hurting Freedom?.

The Prophetic Call for God’s Sovereign Rule

As Israel’s history unraveled, prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah sounded the alarm, calling the people back to God. These prophets weren’t just religious leaders; they were God’s messengers imploring Israel to remember that only God could govern perfectly. Isaiah proclaimed, “For the Lord is our Judge, the Lord is our Lawgiver, the Lord is our King; He will save us” (Isaiah 33:22). This verse ties together governance roles—judge, legislator, and king—emphasizing that God alone satisfies all requirements for just leadership.

Jeremiah echoed this plea in a time of national despair. In Jeremiah 31:33, God promises the New Covenant: “I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” This is exactly what happens internally to a person the very moment he or she becomes born again. It wasn’t a political solution—it was a spiritual one, the start of a real relationship with God. The ultimate failure of Israel’s government models wasn’t organizational; it was relational. Their issue wasn’t structure but their failure to submit to God.

What can modern Christians take from this prophetic urgency? It’s a reminder to put our hope not in flawed systems but in Jesus, who will one day establish God’s Kingdom on earth. In moments of political chaos, we must echo the prayer “Your kingdom come, Your will be done” (Matthew 6:10). To dive deeper into these prophetic truths, check out The Courage That Sparked Lasting Freedom.

When we consider the judges, the kings, and the prophets together, a singular message emerges: God’s ways are always higher than ours. Every attempt at self-rule has failed, proving the need for a Kingdom led by the Creator who knows us better than we know ourselves.

Jesus as the Bridge to God’s Will

Understanding Jesus’ role as the bridge between humanity and God’s will illuminates His mission and message. From His teachings to His walk on earth, Jesus not only explained but also demonstrated what it means to live in perfect alignment with the Father. He emphasized the importance of doing God’s will, showing us the way and inviting us to follow in His steps. Let’s dive into key aspects of Jesus’ life and teachings that highlight this truth.

Jesus’ Teachings on Doing God’s Will

Jesus made it abundantly clear that doing God’s will isn’t just an optional part of faith—it’s foundational. His teaching in Matthew 7:21-23 is especially profound: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” These words challenge superficial faith and point directly to God’s will as the criteria for entering Heaven. Rituals, appearances, or lip service aren’t enough; genuine obedience is what matters.

But what does doing God’s will truly mean? It starts with understanding His commandments and diligently aligning our choices with His desires, even when it conflicts with worldly standards. This becomes more apparent in John 6:38, where Jesus reveals His own purpose: “For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of Him who sent me.” Jesus wasn’t just talking about God’s will—He was living it.

For practical insights into building a relationship with God and walking in His purpose, explore How Do I Know I Am a Christian?. This resource dives deeper into recognizing the signs of faith that align with surrendering to His will.

How Jesus Modeled Living in Alignment with God

Jesus didn’t just tell us about obedience—He showed us with every step of His life. Think about His baptism by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:13-17). This wasn’t about repentance, as Jesus was sinless, but about fulfilling “all righteousness.” It was a declaration of submission to God’s authority and plan.

Another poignant example is Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:39). As He prepared to face death, He prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” Despite the unimaginable burden of bearing humanity’s sin, Jesus submitted fully to God’s plan.

Even in daily interactions, Jesus reflected God’s character. He forgave sinners, healed the sick, and welcomed those marginalized by society. His ministry consistently pointed to the Father’s heart—a heart of love, mercy, and justice. Jesus wasn’t just an example; He was the blueprint for living according to God’s will.

The Holy Spirit’s Role in Guiding Believers

Jesus didn’t leave us to figure out God’s will on our own. He promised the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to understand and fulfill God’s purpose. In John 14:26, Jesus assures, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”

The Holy Spirit isn’t just a guide but also a source of strength. Through Him, believers overcome trials, resist temptation, and stay rooted in God’s Word. Think of the Holy Spirit as a compass that always points us back to Jesus, aligning our steps with His purpose.

To explore how God’s power through love transforms us and enables us to rise above evil, visit Why God’s Love Overcomes Evil and Transforms Our Lives. This reflects the incredible impact of surrendering to God’s will through the Spirit’s work.

By teaching, modeling, and empowering, Jesus leaves no stone unturned in showing us the way to live in harmony with God’s will. His life serves as a vivid reminder that the path to Heaven and a meaningful relationship with God lies in complete obedience and reliance on Him.

The Eternal Kingdom: God’s Ultimate Plan for Governance

God’s intention has always been to bring humanity into a harmonious relationship with Him, not just as individuals but as a collective under His righteous rule. Throughout Scripture, we see a tapestry of God’s interactions with mankind, displaying His desire for deep connection and ultimate governance over His people. From the Garden of Eden to the prophesied return of Christ, God’s story is one of profound love and a call for His children to embrace His Kingdom principles. Let’s explore Israel’s unique role in Biblical prophecy and what it means to live as God’s people under His rulership today.

The Role of Israel in End-Times Prophecy

One cannot overlook Israel’s central place in Biblical prophecy and God’s eternal plan. From the promises made to Abraham to the teachings of Jesus and beyond, Israel is a living testament to God’s faithfulness. But why is Israel so significant in the end times? The answer lies in God’s covenantal promises and His plan for restoration.

The Bible reveals that Israel’s restoration is integral to the completion of God’s redemptive story. For example, Zechariah 12:10 speaks of a day when Israel will recognize their Messiah: “They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for Him as one mourns for an only child.” This verse highlights how central Israel is to the acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord. Further, Revelation points to Jerusalem as the epicenter of God’s final reign (Revelation 21:2). These prophetic illustrations show how God intertwines Israel’s destiny with the world’s ultimate renewal.

But beyond prophecy, Israel’s history serves as a warning and a guide to the Church. Their cycles of faithfulness and failure act as a mirror for us today. As Christians, we are grafted into this truth, called to await Christ’s return with the same expectancy as Israel does for their promised restoration.

If you want to dive deeper into Israel’s eschatological importance, there’s an insightful discussion of this topic in “What is Israel’s Role in the End Times?” and another resource touching upon the promises to Abraham’s descendants in “What Is Israel’s Role in End Times Bible Prophecy?”. These perspectives showcase the unfolding of God’s plan with Israel both as a people and a nation.

The significance is this: recognizing Israel’s role in God’s plan helps believers better grasp the larger narrative of Scripture. How can we pray “Your kingdom come” without understanding where and how that Kingdom will be established?

For context on the interplay between prophecy and history, you might also explore Michael the Archangel’s role in divine history. These accounts reinforce how intricately God’s plan weaves through His engagement with Israel.

What It Means to Live as God’s People Today

Here’s where things get practical. While prophecy fuels our hope, living under God’s Kingdom principles challenges us daily. What does it mean to embrace God’s governance right now? Simply put, it means aligning our hearts with His will and allowing His laws to shape our lives. But what does that look like in action?

Faithful Obedience: Jesus’ words in John 14:15, “If you love Me, keep My commandments,” leave no ambiguity. Being God’s people starts with faith that births obedience. This doesn’t mean perfection but rather a heart bent toward trust and submission.
Loving Our Neighbor: Under God’s Kingdom, love isn’t optional; it’s foundational. Whether it’s extending grace or seeking justice, love reflects His character. As Jesus said in John 13:35, “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.”
Stewardship of the Gospel: Just as Israel was called to be a light for the nations, Christians today carry the message of Christ to the world. This responsibility isn’t burdensome; it’s a privilege.

But how can we daily embody these principles? The answer lies in living intentionally. For example, in a culture obsessed with self-rule and independence, living as a Christ-follower might mean prioritizing God’s will over personal desires. It could look like choosing forgiveness over resentment or truth over convenience.

For more practical ways to immerse yourself in God’s Kingdom values, consider an excellent resource on The Millennial Reign of Christ and your role in God’s plan. Engaging with these principles helps us live not just as individuals in faith, but as a community reflective of God’s heart.

Finally, let’s not forget where it all leads: Jesus himself taught that “not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father” (Matthew 7:21). This isn’t about legalism but about seeking alignment with a holy God who desires relationship over ritual. Christ’s life taught us that living under God’s Kingdom now prepares us for His eternal reign—a reign marked not by human imperfection but by God’s holiness.

Understanding and embracing God’s governance frees us from the chaos of self-sufficiency. It invites us to live as citizens of Heaven, even while on earth. Are we ready to live out His will here and now? That’s the question every believer must answer.

Conclusion

From the Bible’s first moments in Eden to the promise of a New Jerusalem, one message stands firm: God desires to dwell with humanity in a loving and eternal relationship. Every passage underscores this longing, from His covenant with Israel to the ultimate revelation of His Kingdom. Whether through the failures of human government or the personal call to surrender to His will, God shows us repeatedly that His ways bring life, peace, and purpose.

Jesus didn’t just speak about this truth—He demonstrated it. His life, death, and resurrection paved the way for us to align with the Father’s will. He warned that lip service isn’t enough, but a heart committed to obedience opens the door to Heaven (Matthew 7:21). For those who seek to build that relationship and walk in God’s will, understanding the Trinity offers profound insight into the Father’s plan through Christ and the Holy Spirit.

The question is: are we prepared to submit, love, and follow? Recognizing Israel’s role in God’s eternal plan, as well as our daily call to reflect His Kingdom, reshapes how we live as Christians today. Let’s remember, the ultimate governance is not about self-rule or human systems but a God-led Kingdom where His justice and love reign supreme. Explore how God’s love transforms our world and draws us closer to His heart in every season.