What does the Bible say about whether or not God still cares about Israel?
In Romans 11:1-2, Paul writes, "I ask then: Did God reject his people? By no means! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. God did not reject his people, whom he foreknew."
Throughout the Bible, the relationship between God and Israel is a central theme that is woven throughout the Old and New Testaments. The history of Israel is intricately linked with God's covenant with the Jewish people, and the Bible provides insights into God's enduring love, care, and faithfulness towards Israel.
In the Old Testament, the nation of Israel is depicted as God's chosen people, selected to be a light to the nations and to fulfill a special purpose in His plan for redemption and salvation. Despite Israel's repeated disobedience, idolatry, and failures, God's love for His people remains steadfast.
In Deuteronomy 7:6-8, it states, "For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession. The Lord did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the Lord loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors."
These verses highlight God's special relationship with Israel, emphasizing His commitment to His chosen people and their unique role in His divine plan. Despite Israel's shortcomings and struggles, God's love, faithfulness, and care towards them endure.
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses the question of whether or not God still cares about Israel in his letter to the Romans. In Romans 11:1-2, Paul writes, "I ask then: Did God reject his people? By no means! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. God did not reject his people, whom he foreknew."
Paul goes on to explain that while Israel as a whole may have stumbled and rejected Jesus as the Messiah, individuals within Israel still have the opportunity to believe and be saved through faith in Christ. In Romans 11:28-29, Paul states, "As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable."
These passages affirm that God's love and care for Israel remain unchanging, despite the nation's rejection of Jesus as the Messiah. God's promises to the patriarchs, His chosen people, are irrevocable, and there is still a place for Israel within God's redemptive plan.