Shalom, to you my Friend and Co-Minister in the Great Commission...
It has been called the oldest hatred in the world. The Bible reveals the spiritual war behind it. In modern times it has been called anti-Semitism. But it was there in ancient times, medieval times, in every time since the nation of Israel came into existence. As God brought the Jewish people into the world to fulfill His purposes, and as the devil exists to destroy God's purposes, it was inevitable that there would be war.
America is the greatest friend of the Jewish people and the nation of Israel in modern times. It has long been resistant to any major outbreak of anti-Semitism - but, that is now changing. When crowds chanted, Death to Israel, and, From the river to the sea, Palestine shall be free, signifying the same thing, the demonstrations were not limited to Islamic lands or even to Europe. They could be found all over the United States. For the first time, hatred for Israel was being mainstreamed in American culture.
This has been dramatically illustrated by what's happened to the Democratic Party. In 2017, Democrats constituted a pro-Israel party. They favored the cause of Israel over that of the Palestinians by 14 points. But now, just eight years later, the Democrats now constitute a pro-Palestinian party - if not an anti-Israel party. From a pro-Israel position, represented by 14 percentage points, they now are pro-Palestinian or anti-Israel by 43 percentage points! It would be equivalent to a party being pro-Israel by 44 points vs 30 points - transforming, in a short time, into an anti-Israel party by 73 points to 30 points. Further, with younger Democrats, the future of the party shifts from a pro-Israel position in 2017, to an anti-Israel position representing a change of 70 percentage points! So, for the first time in American history, a major political party has become decidedly anti-Israel. How will that affect the future between America and Israel?
But it's not only on the left, but on the right as well, as anti-Semitism is beyond political and, ultimately, spiritual. The far extreme, or alt-right has become increasingly brazen in its anti-Israel, anti-Jewish rantings. And beyond the extreme right, an anti-Israel, anti-Jewish, or anti-Semitic rhetoric is now seeping into conservative circles. Tucker Carlson has increasingly spoken against Israel. And Candace Owens, once a celebrity in conservative media, appears to have embraced anti-Semitic propaganda, blaming Jews and Zionism for the world's evils.
Though it is a stunning development, it should not shock us - as the Bible foretells that in the last days all nations will come against Israel. It is more ominous for America. For if America has been blessed for blessing Israel, as God promised in Genesis 12, then what will happen if it stops?
This month let us pray for the peace of Jerusalem, the salvation of Israel, and revival for America. And may God greatly bless you as you do!
Your brother and co-laborer
in His love and service,
Jonathan
