Has The Church Replaced Israel?

Introduction

One of the most debated theological topics in eschatology is the relationship between the Church and Israel. Has the Church replaced Israel in God’s plan of salvation? This question, commonly referred to as “Replacement Theology,” has deep implications for understanding biblical prophecy, particularly as it pertains to the end times. Understanding this question is essential for interpreting the 70 weeks of Daniel, the Church’s role in God’s unfolding plan, and the future of Israel.

In this message, we will examine why Replacement Theology is incompatible with the Scriptures and the end times, and why Israel still has a pivotal role in God’s redemptive plan. We will also explore the distinction between Israel and the Church, yet recognize our close connection through the covenant of salvation.

1. What is Replacement Theology?

Replacement Theology is the belief that the Church has replaced Israel in God’s covenants, plans, and promises. According to this view, the promises made to Israel in the Old Testament, including the land of Israel and the Davidic kingdom, now apply to the Church. This is based on Israel’s rejection of Christ led to their forfeiture of God’s covenant promises, which are now fulfilled in the Church.

Many who teach replacement theology twist Scripture to justify their position:

1 Peter 2:9–10 ESV

9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Galatians 3:28–29 ESV

28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.

To understand why Replacement Theology is incompatible with Scripture, we first need to understand Israel’s role in God’s redemptive plan for man - past, present, and future.

2. Israel’s Role in Salvation for All Nations Before and During the Church Age

Before the establishment of the Church, Israel played a central and foundational role in God’s plan for salvation. Through Israel, God revealed His character, laws, promises, and His plan of redemption. Israel was chosen by God to be a light to the nations, bringing salvation to the Gentiles through the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ. Even in the Old Testament, God’s redemptive plan was not exclusive to Israel, but intended to bless all nations through Israel’s covenant with God. This includes the promise of messiah, Jesus Christ.

In Luke, we see Simeon rejoicing over the coming of Messiah and his central role in God’s prophetic plan

Luke 2:30–32 ESV

30 for my eyes have seen your salvation 31 that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.”

Moreover we see that God’s promises and covenants with Israel are unending. for instance

Genesis 17:7–8 ESV

7 And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. 8 And I will give to you and to your offspring after you the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.”

Isaiah 54:7–10 ESV

7 For a brief moment I deserted you, but with great compassion I will gather you. 8 In overflowing anger for a moment I hid my face from you, but with everlasting love I will have compassion on you,” says the Lord, your Redeemer. 9 “This is like the days of Noah to me: as I swore that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth, so I have sworn that I will not be angry with you, and will not rebuke you. 10 For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.

Amos 9:14–15 ESV

14 I will restore the fortunes of my people Israel, and they shall rebuild the ruined cities and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and drink their wine, and they shall make gardens and eat their fruit. 15 I will plant them on their land, and they shall never again be uprooted out of the land that I have given them,” says the Lord your God.

Romans 11:29 ESV

29 For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.

1. Israel as a Light to the Nations

God’s intent was for Israel to be a light to the Gentiles, pointing the way to salvation. While Israel was chosen to be a special people, their mission was always to bring the knowledge of God to the world.

Isaiah 49:6 ESV

6 he says: “It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to bring back the preserved of Israel; I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”

This prophetic statement from God reveals that Israel’s role was not just for themselves, but to bring the salvation of God to all nations. This is one of the clearest Old Testament references to the global scope of God’s redemptive plan.

Isaiah 42:6 ESV

6 “I am the Lord; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations,

In this verse, God again emphasizes Israel’s mission to be a light to the Gentiles. This verse foreshadows the role of Jesus as the true light to the nations, who would come through Israel.

2. The Blessing to All Nations Through Abraham

God’s covenant with Abraham promised blessings not only to Abraham’s descendants, but to all the nations of the earth. This covenant was the foundation for Israel’s role in God’s plan for salvation.

Genesis 12:2–3 ESV

2 And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

This promise to Abraham was the foundation of Israel’s calling to be a conduit of God’s blessing to the entire world. Through Abraham’s descendants, Israel, the Messiah would come, who would offer salvation to the Gentiles.

Genesis 22:18 ESV

18 and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice.”

This promise again extends to the world through the line of Abraham. The blessing to all nations would come through the offspring of Abraham, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ

3. The Role of Israel in the Preservation of Scripture

Israel’s role in salvation was not only through direct mission work but also through the preservation and transmission of the Scriptures. The Old Testament Scriptures, which point to Jesus Christ and His coming kingdom, were entrusted to Israel.

Romans 3:1-2 – “Then what advantage has the Jew? Or what is the value of circumcision? Much in every way. To begin with, the Jews were entrusted with the oracles of God.”

This passage highlights the crucial role of Israel in safeguarding the revelation of God’s Word, the Scriptures, which would ultimately point to the Messiah. Without Israel’s role in preserving God’s revelation, the New Testament and the story of Jesus would have had no foundation.

Romans 9:4-5 – “They are Israelites, and to them belong the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises. To them belong the patriarchs, and from their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever. Amen.”

This passage underscores the pivotal role Israel has played in God’s plan. The promises, covenants, and even the Messiah came through Israel. Without Israel’s history and their acceptance of God’s call, the salvation of the world through Jesus Christ would not have been possible.

4. The Salvation of Gentiles Through Israel’s Failure

Even in the midst of Israel’s failure to recognize their Messiah, God’s redemptive plan for the nations was fulfilled. Israel’s rejection of Christ opened the door for Gentiles to be grafted into God’s plan of salvation.

Romans 11:11-12 – “So I ask, did they stumble in order that they might fall? By no means! Rather through their trespass salvation has come to the Gentiles, so as to make Israel jealous. Now if their trespass means riches for the world, and if their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their full inclusion mean!”

Paul explains that while Israel’s rejection of Jesus temporarily halted their position as the exclusive recipient of God’s promises, it opened the door for the Gentiles to be saved. However, Israel’s ultimate restoration and acceptance of Jesus will result in even greater blessings for the world.

Matthew 21:43 – “Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruits.”

Jesus said this to the religious leaders of Israel, indicating that the kingdom of God would be offered to the Gentiles for a time. But this was never meant to be permanent; rather, it was part of God’s greater redemptive plan that included both Jew and Gentile.

5. The Church’s Role in the Fulfillment of Israel’s Calling

While the Church is distinct from Israel, it plays an important role in fulfilling the purpose that Israel was meant to serve in bringing salvation to the nations. As the Church, we are to carry the gospel to the world, continuing the mission that Israel was called to fulfill.

Matthew 28:18-20 (The Great Commission) – “And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…’”

Jesus’ command to His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations is a continuation of God’s original plan for Israel. The Church now carries the message of salvation to the nations, as Israel was intended to do.

Acts 13:46-47 – “And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly, saying, ‘It was necessary that the word of God be spoken first to you [Israel]. Since you thrust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles. For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’”

Here, Paul refers to the prophetic role Israel was meant to fulfill as a light to the Gentiles. Though Israel rejected the gospel, the Church now carries the torch of evangelizing the nations, bringing salvation to the Gentiles just as Israel was called to do.

Israel’s role in God’s redemptive plan is foundational to understanding both the Old and New Testament narratives. From being a light to the Gentiles to preserving the Scriptures, Israel’s mission was always meant to bless all nations. The Church does not replace Israel but fulfills the mission that Israel was called to complete, particularly in proclaiming the Gospel to the nations. Ultimately, God’s promises to Israel are irrevocable, and in the end times, Israel will experience a full restoration and fulfillment of God’s covenant promises. As believers, we are grafted into the blessings God gave to Israel, sharing in the hope and promise of salvation.

2. Biblical Basis for Israel’s Ongoing Role

While Replacement Theology has become prominent in certain theological circles, a closer examination of Scripture reveals that God still has a distinct and unfulfilled plan for Israel in the end times.

The Promises to Israel Are Unconditional

Genesis 12:1–3 ESV

1 Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. 2 And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

God promises Abraham and his descendants (Israel) that He will make them a great nation and bless those who bless them. This is an unconditional covenant.

2 Samuel 7:16 ESV

16 And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever.’ ”

God promises David that his throne will be established forever, a promise that remains unfulfilled until the return of Jesus Christ, who will reign on David’s throne.

The 70 Weeks of Daniel: A Prophetic Timeline for Israel

One of the most compelling reasons to reject Replacement Theology is the prophetic timeline given in Daniel 9:24-27 , known as the 70 weeks prophecy. These 70 weeks (or 490 years) are divided into periods related to Israel’s future.

Daniel 9:24–27 ESV

24 “Seventy weeks are decreed about your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to put an end to sin, and to atone for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal both vision and prophet, and to anoint a most holy place. 25 Know therefore and understand that from the going out of the word to restore and build Jerusalem to the coming of an anointed one, a prince, there shall be seven weeks. Then for sixty-two weeks it shall be built again with squares and moat, but in a troubled time. 26 And after the sixty-two weeks, an anointed one shall be cut off and shall have nothing. And the people of the prince who is to come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. Its end shall come with a flood, and to the end there shall be war. Desolations are decreed. 27 And he shall make a strong covenant with many for one week, and for half of the week he shall put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate, until the decreed end is poured out on the desolator.”

• Daniel 9:24-26: The first 69 weeks (483 years) were fulfilled with the arrival of the Messiah and His crucifixion. The final, or 70th week, remains unfulfilled and will occur in the future during the Tribulation period. This last seven-year period is specifically designated for Israel, not the Church, marking the conclusion of God’s dealings with Israel in preparation for their final restoration.

• Daniel 9:27: “And he shall make a strong covenant with many for one week [7 years], and for half of the week he shall put an end to sacrifice and offering.” This refers to the Antichrist, who will make a covenant with Israel for seven years, which will ultimately be broken in the middle of the Tribulation. This final week is focused entirely on Israel, not the Church, and signifies God’s continued covenant with the Jewish people.

3. The Church and Israel: Distinction and Unity

While Israel has a distinct role in God’s redemptive plan, the Church plays a vital and unique role in the present age. The New Testament teaches that believers, whether Jew or Gentile, are united in Christ and share in the blessings of salvation through faith.

• Ephesians 2:11-22 : Paul describes how Gentiles, who were once separate from Israel, are now brought near through Christ’s sacrifice, making both Jews and Gentiles one body in Christ. This does not mean that the Church has replaced Israel, but rather that God has graciously included the Gentiles into His plan of salvation. The Church does not inherit the promises made to Israel, but shares in the spiritual blessings of salvation.

Ephesians 2:11–22 ESV

11 Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called “the uncircumcision” by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands— 12 remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility 15 by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, 16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. 17 And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

Romans 11:17-24: Paul uses the metaphor of an olive tree to illustrate the relationship between Israel and the Gentiles. Gentile believers are grafted into the “olive tree” (Israel), but they do not replace the tree or its root. The branches of Israel still hold a central place in God’s plan.

4. The Future of Israel: Restoration and Fulfillment

Israel’s rejection of the Messiah is not permanent. In Romans 11:25-27, Paul speaks of a future time when “all Israel will be saved.” This refers to the national restoration of Israel, which will occur at the Second Coming of Christ. This is a clear distinction between the Church and Israel: while the Church is spiritually united with Christ now, Israel’s national redemption will take place in the future, during the Tribulation and Christ’s return.

• Zechariah 12:10: “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child.” This prophetic promise speaks of Israel’s future repentance and acceptance of Jesus as their Messiah.

• Romans 11:26: “And in this way all Israel will be saved.” This speaks of the time when Israel, after the Tribulation, will recognize Jesus as their Messiah and be restored to their rightful place in God’s plan.

5. Why Replacement Theology is Incompatible with End Times Prophecy

Replacement Theology fails to account for these key aspects of Israel’s role in God’s redemptive plan:

• The 70th week of Daniel, which is specifically for Israel.

• The promises to Israel that remain unconditional and irrevocable.

• The future restoration of Israel, which is an essential part of the end times, culminating in the Second Coming of Christ.

If the Church has replaced Israel, then many prophecies, especially those concerning the Tribulation, the rebuilding of the temple, the rise of the Antichrist, and the return of Jesus, would be irrelevant. Replacement Theology undermines the significance of Israel in the end times and neglects God’s promises to His people.

6. Conclusion: Israel’s Role in God’s End-Times Plan

Israel holds a central place in God’s end-times plan, particularly during the seven-year Tribulation period described in Scripture. This time of great trial and upheaval will be marked by Israel’s pivotal role, as they undergo tremendous persecution, but also experience a miraculous spiritual awakening and restoration. While the Tribulation will be a time of judgment, it will also be a time of hope for Israel, culminating in their recognition of Jesus as the Messiah and their ultimate deliverance.

1. Israel in the Tribulation: The First Three and a Half Years

The Tribulation, as outlined in the book of Revelation, is divided into two halves. The first half is characterized by relative peace, yet under the surface, tensions continue to mount. During this time, Israel’s role becomes increasingly significant. While Israel will not be exempt from the trials of the Tribulation, there will be moments when they experience a false sense of security, as the Antichrist presents himself as a peacekeeper and promises to uphold Israel’s interests.

Key Events in the First Half of the Tribulation:

• False Peace with the Antichrist:

According to Daniel 9:27, the Antichrist will broker a peace deal with Israel at the beginning of the Tribulation. This covenant will be broken midway through the seven years, leading to great destruction. While the Antichrist will initially appear as a savior, his true nature will be revealed as a deceiver.

• 144,000 Jewish Evangelists:

In Revelation 7:4-8, we learn about the 144,000 Jewish evangelists—12,000 from each of the twelve tribes of Israel—who will be sealed by God and sent out to proclaim the Gospel during the Tribulation. These Jewish believers will be instrumental in spreading the message of salvation through Jesus Christ, particularly to the nations that still resist the truth. Their ministry will lead to the salvation of countless Gentiles and Jews during the Tribulation period.

2. The Abomination of Desolation: The Turning Point

In the second half of the Tribulation, Israel’s faith will be tested in the most severe way. The Antichrist will break his covenant with Israel and set up the Abomination of Desolation in the temple, as foretold by Jesus in Matthew 24:15 and referenced in Daniel 9:27 and 11:31. The Antichrist will demand worship as God, and this desecration will signal the beginning of intense persecution against Israel, as the false peace gives way to brutal war and suffering.

Key Events in the Second Half of the Tribulation:

• The Great Persecution of Israel:

Revelation 12 describes the fierce persecution of the Jewish people during this time, where the Antichrist and his forces will seek to destroy Israel. However, God will supernaturally protect a remnant of Israel in the wilderness (Revelation 12:14).

• The Two Witnesses:

During this time, two prophetic witnesses will rise in Jerusalem, and their testimony will lead many to repentance, despite the opposition they face from the Antichrist. They will proclaim the truth about God’s kingdom, but they will be killed by the Antichrist and resurrected after three days (Revelation 11:3-12).

3. Israel’s Spiritual Awakening: The Hope

Amid the devastation and persecution, there is a powerful hope for Israel. The Tribulation, while a time of judgment, will ultimately lead to Israel’s spiritual awakening and repentance. As the nation of Israel faces immense suffering, they will begin to recognize the Messiah they have long rejected.

Key Events in Israel’s Spiritual Awakening:

• The Outpouring of the Spirit:

In Zechariah 12:10, God promises to pour out a spirit of grace and supplication on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem. This will lead to Israel’s national repentance and their recognition of Jesus as their Messiah: “They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child.”

• Israel’s Conversion:

Romans 11:26 speaks of a time when “all Israel will be saved.” This refers to the final restoration of Israel as a people, when they will turn to Christ in faith. The Tribulation, while a time of suffering, will also be a time of Israel’s spiritual renewal. The nation will be purged of their unbelief, and the Jewish people will accept Jesus as their Messiah, fulfilling God’s promises to them.

• The Return of Christ:

The culmination of Israel’s hope is the return of Jesus Christ. At the end of the Tribulation, Jesus will return to fight for Israel and establish His kingdom. In Matthew 23:39, Jesus says to the people of Israel, “For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’” The final restoration of Israel will coincide with the return of Christ, who will bring peace, justice, and fulfillment to all His promises.

4. The Kingdom Established

Following the Tribulation, Israel will enter into a new era of peace and blessing, as they accept Christ as their King and Messiah. This is the establishment of the millennial kingdom (Revelation 20:1-6), where Jesus will rule from Jerusalem for 1,000 years. During this time, Israel will be at the center of God’s redemptive plan, and the nations will come to Jerusalem to worship and learn of the Lord (Zechariah 14:16-17).

5. The Hope for Believers in the Context of Israel’s Role

For the Church, Israel’s role in the Tribulation and their eventual conversion is a source of great hope. As believers, we are part of God’s redemptive plan, but Israel’s restoration underscores the hope we have in Christ’s return. The salvation of Israel is a sign that God’s promises are true, and it assures us that God will ultimately bring justice and restoration to the world. The Tribulation serves as a reminder that while the Church is not destined for wrath (1 Thessalonians 5:9), God is still working to fulfill His promises to Israel, and we are called to pray for their salvation (Romans 10:1) and to stand firm in our faith as we await the return of our Savior.

Conclusion: The Role of Israel in God’s Plan

Israel’s role in the seven-year Tribulation and the larger picture of end-times prophecy is essential to understanding God’s ultimate plan for the world. While the Tribulation is a time of judgment and suffering, it is also a time of hope, as Israel will be restored and come to know their true Messiah, Jesus Christ. For the Church, this should encourage us to remain faithful, to watch the signs of the times, and to recognize that God’s promises to Israel are irrevocable and will culminate in His glorious return.

• Israel’s role in prophecy is not over; it continues to play a central part in the unfolding of God’s plan.

• Replacement Theology is incompatible with key end-times prophecies, including the 70th week of Daniel and Israel’s future restoration.

• The Church is distinct from Israel, but we share in the blessings of salvation.

• Israel’s national repentance and acceptance of Christ as their Messiah will be a key event in the end times.

• We must continue to pray for Israel, stand with Israel, and recognize that God’s promises to Israel will be fulfilled in His perfect timing.