Is it important to stand with Israel and why should we do so? In a series of 10 blogs, Benjamin Kroese who lives in Israel, will share about the importance of developing a love for God’s people Israel. This week part 4: ‘Israel and revival are connected with eachother.
According to the Apostle Paul, the full restoration of Israel will release an unprecedented blessing to the Church. In Romans 11, Paul makes two most amazing statements:
‘But if their transgression means riches for the world, and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their full inclusion bring!’ (Romans 11:12) and: ‘For if their rejection brought reconciliation to the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?’ (Romans 11:15)
Paul presents it as an almost mathematical formula. Looking at Israel’s fall or failure and rejection, he still sees the blessing of “riches for the Gentiles” and “reconciliation to the world.” Then he looks to the future fullness and acceptance of Israel and envisions an even greater redemption for the world from “life from the dead”.
John Wesley, a 17th century evangelist said, “So many prophecies refer to this great event, that it is surprising that a Christian can doubt it. When it is accomplished it will be such a strong demonstration, both of the revelation of the Old and New Testament, that it undoubtedly will convince many. It will make abundant life available for the world that was dead.”
Revival Miracle
In Acts 3 we read about the cripple who was healed at the Beautiful Gate (the gate to the Temple). An amazing (revival) miracle! It says he was lame from birth. When he saw Peter and John enter the temple, he asked them for money.
Peter’s response was phenomenal: verses 6-8: ‘Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.’
Later in this same chapter (Acts 3:19-20), Peter also sees that a spiritually restored Israel will release “times of refreshing from the Lord” and the “times of restoration of all things” that will ultimately bring about the Second Coming of the Lord. That means the restoration of Israel is the key for anyone who thirsts for the outpouring God still has in store for the Church. Or to put it another way, if you thirst for revival, pray for Israel!
This blog is written by Benjamin Kroese. Benjamin is married to Rebecca and together with their three sons they live in Israel. They have their own video production company ‘Frontline Media’ and are founders of ‘Until He Returns Ministries’. Benjamin and Rebecca have a passion for revival in Israel and have a desire to reach other nations to stand with Israel.
