Christian Zionism

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Hello Bishop Manchester. I would first like to thank you for always taking the time to answer my questions. I would like to ask you what is your opinion of Christian Zionism? - Ruben

Christian Zionism is a belief among some Christians that the return of the Jews to the Holy Land, and the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, is in accordance with Biblical prophecy. Many Christian Zionists believe that the people of Israel remain part of the chosen people of God. I would oppose Christian Zionism theologically, challenging what is clearly a distorted interpretation of biblical eschatology that transforms the Prince of Peace into a Vengeful Warrior God. I recognise that the theology shaped by the Christian Zionist's distorted view of scripture too easily transmutes into a militaristic, anti-Palestinian, pro-expansionist ideology with negative consequences for all parties in the current conflict. It is supportive of the most extreme political positions of ultra-conservative Israelis and deliberately ignores political realities and the existence of other groups, including Palestinian Christians. It is oblivious to the suffering of non-Jews and the long term impact of Israel's suicidal policies. Christian Zionists translate their theology into concrete political influence on behalf of Zionism and the State of Israel.

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Christian Zionism revives issues thought to have been resolved during the first century of the Christian era concerning the nature of the Old and New Testaments, and Judaeo-Christian relationships.

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