Bishop Keith Butler
Feb 19
Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together: Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord, unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the Lord. For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee. (Psalm 122:3-6)
Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is not a suggestion. It’s a command. Christians should take the time to understand what is happening in Israel and stand in prayer and faith for the conflict there to end. To comprehend the ongoing struggles in the region, we must delve into its history. In 1948, the establishment of the Jewish state led to immediate tensions with Arab nations, sparking a conflict that has endured for decades. The intricate web of religious beliefs adds complexity to the geopolitical landscape. Islam, born in the seventh century, challenges the Christian faith, rejecting the Lordship of Jesus and condemning Jesus' followers in the Quran. Israel's victory in 1967’s Six-Day War resulted in the acquisition of important territories. Calls to revert to the 1967 borders have continued to be raised, which is saying to Israel: “Although you were attacked, and even though you defeated all your enemies, you still must give your land back.” However, that land belongs to them.
The Iranian Revolution of 1979 put the Ayatollah in power. Not only is the Ayatollah one of the largest benefactors of terrorism, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and other groups fighting against Israel; He also hates both Israel - which he calls the little Satan–and the United States, whom he calls the big Satan. The recent outbreak of violence in Israel underscores the deep-rooted tensions Muslims have about Israel. Surveys of different Muslim groups in the area say a significant percentage support armed attacks against Israel. A two-state solution is simply not possible when one group wants the complete annihilation of the other. When Israel gave up the Gaza Strip in 2007, there was an election. Hamas won that election, and there has never been another election.
How do we respond to these complexities? First, recognize the historical and spiritual significance of Jerusalem. Second, pray for the peace of Jerusalem, aligning our hearts with God's desire for peace and prosperity for the Jewish people.