FEATURE ARTICLE 1 https://www.timesofisrael.com/ netanyahu-israel-and-singapore-are kindred-spirits/amp/
ISRAEL 70
2 https://www.todayonline.com/ singapore/pm-lee-lauds-singapore israel-ties
by PA S TOR TIMOTHY CHONG This year, the State of Israel celebrates 70 years since her rebirth as a modern nation, a fulfilment of Biblical prophecy: “Who has heard such a thing? Who has seen such things? Can a land be born in one day? Can a nation be brought forth at once? As soon as Zion travailed, she also brought forth her sons. ...Be joyful with Jerusalem and rejoice for her, all you who love her; Be exceedingly glad with her, all you who mourn over her... ...For thus says the LORD, “Behold, I extend peace to her like a river, And the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream.” Isaiah 66:8, 10, 12 (NASB)
THE CHURCH & ISRAEL What has happened to the church and Israel since 1948? Firstly, Christians have been rediscovering their Jewish roots. What’s happening in churches worldwide is a greater love and identification with Israel like never before. The evidence is clear to see as the Spirit of God moves among the churches. The Holy Spirit has been at work linking Christianity to its Hebrew roots, resulting in a proper understanding between Israel and the church.
Here are a few examples: • The Old Testament is studied and taught as never before. • Christians are discovering that many of the promises and blessings currently enjoyed were initially made to the Jews. • Tens of thousands of Christians continue to visit the land of Israel resulting in a greater appreciation for the holy land.
There are other amazing events to note since 1948. It’s not just Christians rediscovering their Jewish roots; the Jews have begun to discover Jesus. Since 1948, the Jews have written hundreds of essays, articles, poems and other works about Jesus.
Dr Isodore Singer (rabbi), who is the editor of the Jewish Encyclopedia said this: “I regard Jesus of Nazareth as a Jew of Jews, one whom more Jewish people are learning to love. His teachings have been an immense service to the world in bringing Israel’s God to the knowledge of hundreds of millions of mankind.” Another rabbi: “We Jews are very proud of our Einsteins, Hennrich Heiners, Sigmund Freuds; we ought to be much prouder of our Jesus!” Another rabbi: “Christianity and Judaism share one of the great reluctance of history; we are both reluctant to live openly and fully to the fact that Jesus was a Jew.”
We thank God for the strong ties and friendship between the churches in Singapore and Israel. It’s vital that we continue to pray and build relationships with Israel and the Jewish community; especially in these momentous days.
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