Listen On:
SHOW NOTES
There’s so much happening nationally and internationally right now, causing a lot of chaos within our circles—and even within the church. One of those areas of confusion is Israel: whether the church should stand with Israel, this idea of replacement theology, and the recent rise of antisemitism. Today on Fearless, I invited back my friend Samuel Smadja to speak into this topic and share his insights as an Israeli native and Messianic pastor living and working on the ground right now.
Samuel had so much wisdom to share, and together we unpacked replacement theology—the belief that the church has replaced Israel as God’s chosen people—the dark roots of antisemitism and why we’re seeing it increasing again today, and some of the miracles Samuel himself has witnessed living through the October 7 attacks and their aftermath. Towards the end of our conversation, we also look at some of the biblical context behind Israel’s distinction as God’s chosen people, and why their existence as a nation today is truly some of the best evidence for biblical truth.
As Christians, I believe we’re called to intercede for Israel and the Jewish people. This country holds such a special place in my heart, and has shaped my life in profound ways. In a time when so many are turning their backs on the Jewish people, it’s our job to stand for truth and remain steadfast in our love for Israel, just as God’s love for His people has always remained the same today, yesterday, and forever.