Introduction

Israel holds a central place in the biblical narrative and God's redemptive plan for humanity. From the call of Abraham to the establishment of the nation of Israel, and through the prophetic promises concerning its future, Israel is depicted as a chosen people through whom God reveals His purposes to the world. This entry explores the significance of Israel in God's plan as presented in the Bible.

The Call of Abraham

The account of Israel begins with God's call to Abram (later Abraham) in Genesis 12:1-3: "Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing." This covenant established Israel as a nation through which all families of the earth would be blessed. Abraham's descendants, Isaac and Jacob (Israel), became the patriarchs of the Israelite people, marking the beginning of God's covenant relationship with Israel.

The Covenant at Sinai

The significance of Israel is further emphasized at Mount Sinai, where God establishes a covenant with the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. In Exodus 19:5-6, God declares, "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 covenant underscores Israel's role as a distinct and holy nation, set apart to serve as a mediator between God and the nations.

The Promised Land

The land of Canaan, promised to Abraham and his descendants, is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative. The land serves as a tangible sign of God's faithfulness and a place where His people can live out their covenantal relationship with Him. In Deuteronomy 7:6-8, God reiterates His choice of Israel: "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, above all the peoples on the face of the earth."

The Role of the Prophets

Throughout Israel's history, prophets played a crucial role in calling the nation back to faithfulness and foretelling God's future plans. Prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel spoke of both judgment and restoration, emphasizing Israel's role in God's redemptive plan. Isaiah 49:6 highlights Israel's mission: "I will also make you a light for the nations, to bring My salvation to the ends of the earth."

The Coming of the Messiah

The anticipation of a Messiah is a central theme in the Old Testament, with numerous prophecies pointing to a future anointed one who would come from Israel. The Messiah, Jesus Christ, is seen as the fulfillment of these prophecies. In the New Testament, Jesus' lineage is traced back to David, affirming His rightful place as the promised King of Israel. Matthew 1:1 states, "This is the record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham."

The Church and Israel

The New Testament introduces the concept of the Church, composed of both Jews and Gentiles, as the body of Christ. However, this does not negate the ongoing significance of Israel. Romans 11:1-2 affirms that God has not rejected His people: "I ask then, has God rejected His people? Certainly not! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. God did not reject His people, whom He foreknew."

The Future of Israel

Biblical prophecy speaks of a future restoration of Israel. In Romans 11:25-26, Paul writes, "I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers, so that you will not be conceited: A hardening in part has come to Israel until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: 'The Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove godlessness from Jacob.'" This future restoration is seen as part of God's ultimate plan for the redemption of the world.

Conclusion

The importance of Israel in God's plan is woven throughout the biblical narrative, from the call of Abraham to the prophetic promises of restoration. As a chosen nation, Israel serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and a vehicle through which His redemptive purposes are revealed to the world.