The term "Community of Israel" refers to the collective body of the Israelites, the descendants of the twelve tribes of Jacob, also known as Israel. This community is central to the narrative of the Old Testament, serving as the chosen people through whom God reveals His laws, covenants, and redemptive plans. The concept of the Community of Israel encompasses both the physical descendants of Jacob and the spiritual community bound by covenantal relationship with God.

Biblical Foundations

The origins of the Community of Israel are rooted in the patriarchal narratives of Genesis. God’s covenant with Abraham marks the beginning of this community: "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing" (Genesis 12:2). This promise is reiterated to Isaac and Jacob, establishing a lineage through which the community is formed.

The Community of Israel is formally constituted at Mount Sinai, where God gives the Law through Moses. Exodus 19:5-6 states, "Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine. And unto Me you shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." This covenantal relationship is foundational, setting Israel apart as a people dedicated to God’s purposes.

Covenantal Identity

The identity of the Community of Israel is deeply tied to the covenants established by God. The Abrahamic Covenant promises land, descendants, and blessing (Genesis 15, 17). The Mosaic Covenant, given at Sinai, provides the Law, which governs the community’s religious, moral, and social life. The Davidic Covenant promises a lasting dynasty, culminating in the Messianic hope (2 Samuel 7:12-16).

Throughout the Old Testament, the prophets call the Community of Israel back to faithfulness, emphasizing the importance of covenantal obedience. Jeremiah 31:31-33 speaks of a New Covenant: "Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah... I will put My law in their minds and inscribe it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they will be My people."

Religious and Social Structure

The Community of Israel is organized around religious and social structures that reflect its covenantal identity. The Tabernacle, and later the Temple, serve as the central place of worship, where sacrifices and festivals are observed according to the Law. The priesthood, led by the descendants of Aaron, mediates between God and the people, performing rituals and maintaining the sanctity of worship.

Socially, the community is governed by laws that promote justice, compassion, and holiness. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) and other legal codes provide guidelines for personal conduct, community relations, and worship practices. The concept of holiness, as expressed in Leviticus 19:2 , "Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy," underscores the community’s calling to reflect God’s character.

Exile and Restoration

The history of the Community of Israel is marked by periods of faithfulness and rebellion, leading to exile and restoration. The Assyrian and Babylonian exiles are seen as judgments for covenant unfaithfulness, yet the prophetic promises of restoration and return highlight God’s enduring commitment to His people. Ezekiel 36:24-28 speaks of this hope: "For I will take you from among the nations, gather you out of all the countries, and bring you back into your own land... You will be My people, and I will be your God."

Messianic Fulfillment

The New Testament presents Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of the promises made to the Community of Israel. He is the promised Messiah, the descendant of David, who establishes the New Covenant through His death and resurrection. The early Christian community, composed of both Jews and Gentiles, is seen as the continuation and expansion of the Community of Israel, united by faith in Christ. Paul writes in Romans 11:17-24 about the inclusion of Gentiles into this community, using the metaphor of an olive tree to describe the unity and diversity of God’s people.

The Community of Israel, therefore, is both a historical and theological concept, representing God’s chosen people through whom He reveals His purposes and plans for redemption.