Introduction

The relationship between the Church and Israel is a significant theme in Christian theology, reflecting God's unfolding plan of redemption throughout history. Both entities play distinct yet interconnected roles in the biblical narrative, with Israel as God's chosen people in the Old Testament and the Church as the body of Christ in the New Testament. This entry explores the roles and relationships of the Church and Israel from a biblical perspective.

Israel in the Old Testament

Israel's role as God's chosen nation is foundational to understanding its place in biblical history. God established a covenant with Abraham, promising to make his descendants a great nation (Genesis 12:2-3). This covenant was reaffirmed with Isaac and Jacob, and it set Israel apart as a people through whom God would reveal Himself and His purposes to the world.

The Law given to Moses at Sinai further defined Israel's role, establishing them as a "kingdom of priests and a holy nation" (Exodus 19:6). Israel was to be a light to the nations, demonstrating God's holiness and justice. Despite their frequent disobedience, the prophets foretold a future restoration and a new covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34).

The Church in the New Testament

With the coming of Jesus Christ, the role of the Church emerges as central in the New Testament. Jesus, the promised Messiah, fulfills the Law and the Prophets, establishing a new covenant through His death and resurrection. The Church, composed of both Jews and Gentiles, is described as the body of Christ, with Christ as the head (Ephesians 1:22-23).

The Church's mission is to proclaim the gospel, make disciples of all nations, and live as a community reflecting God's kingdom values (Matthew 28:19-20). The Apostle Paul emphasizes the unity of believers in Christ, stating, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28).

The Relationship Between the Church and Israel

The relationship between the Church and Israel is complex and multifaceted. The Apostle Paul addresses this in Romans 9-11, where he discusses Israel's unbelief and the inclusion of the Gentiles. He affirms that God's promises to Israel have not failed and that a remnant of Israel will be saved (Romans 11:1-5). Paul uses the metaphor of an olive tree to illustrate how Gentiles have been grafted into the rich root of Israel's covenantal promises (Romans 11:17-24).

The Church does not replace Israel but shares in the spiritual blessings promised to Abraham. Paul warns against arrogance, reminding Gentile believers of their dependence on the root that supports them (Romans 11:18). The future holds a mystery, as Paul anticipates a time when "all Israel will be saved" (Romans 11:26), indicating a future role for ethnic Israel in God's redemptive plan.

Conclusion

The roles of the Church and Israel are distinct yet intertwined in God's redemptive history. Israel's election and covenantal relationship with God set the stage for the coming of Christ and the establishment of the Church. The Church, as the body of Christ, continues the mission of God in the world, while the promises to Israel remain integral to the unfolding of God's ultimate plan for humanity.