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Israel Matters: Why Christians Must Think Differently about the People and the Land
Widely respected theologian Gerald McDermott has spent two decades investigating the meaning of Israel and Judaism. What he has learned has required him to rethink many of his previous assumptions.
Israel Matters addresses the perennially important issue of the relationship between Christianity and the people and land of Israel, offering a unique and compelling "third way" between typical approaches and correcting common misunderstandings along the way. This book challenges the widespread Christian assumption that since Jesus came to earth, Jews are no longer special to God as a people, and the land of Israel is no longer theologically significant. It traces the author's journey from thinking those things to discovering that the New Testament authors believed the opposite of both. It also shows that contrary to what many Christians believe, the church is not the new Israel, and both the people and the land of Israel are important to God and the future of redemption.
McDermott offers an accessible but robust defense of a "New Christian Zionism" for pastors and laypeople interested in Israel and Christian-Jewish relations. His approach will also spark a conversation among theologians and biblical scholars.
Israel Matters addresses the perennially important issue of the relationship between Christianity and the people and land of Israel, offering a unique and compelling "third way" between typical approaches and correcting common misunderstandings along the way. This book challenges the widespread Christian assumption that since Jesus came to earth, Jews are no longer special to God as a people, and the land of Israel is no longer theologically significant. It traces the author's journey from thinking those things to discovering that the New Testament authors believed the opposite of both. It also shows that contrary to what many Christians believe, the church is not the new Israel, and both the people and the land of Israel are important to God and the future of redemption.
McDermott offers an accessible but robust defense of a "New Christian Zionism" for pastors and laypeople interested in Israel and Christian-Jewish relations. His approach will also spark a conversation among theologians and biblical scholars.
176 pages, Paperback
Published May 30, 2017
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173 people want to read
About the author
Gerald R. McDermott
39 books31 followersGerald R. McDermott (PhD, University of Iowa) is Jordan-Trexler Professor of Religion at Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia, and Distinguished Senior Fellow at the Baylor Institute for Studies of Religion. He is the author or editor of ten books, including God's Rivals: Why Has God Allowed Different Religions? and Claiming Christ: A Mormon-Evangelical Debate.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 15, 2022
Man, this was an excellent book written by a Reformed Anglican. I wish every Reformed seminary & church would take their students & people through it as it’s very informative & praise invoking. To believe that the Jewish people are still the chosen people of God, the land of Israel is still covenantally important, & Israel still has a future destiny in the purpose & plan of God is not a dispensational only view but a view that has history & acceptance within the Reformed theological tradition. There’s only one part I can think of in chapter 6 that I fully & very strongly disagree with although I understand his heart & why he writes what he does. Besides that part, this book was EXCELLENT!
August 4, 2023
I’ll start with what I liked. I think McDermott reaches helpful conclusions about how we ought to view the nation of Israel. He rejects unchecked validation and acknowledges that questioning this nation does not equate to antisemitism. I appreciated the survey of political objections found in chapter 6, as I have never looked in depth into these issues. I also appreciate his unwavering denunciation of antisemitism from any Christian leaders down through history. But I think my list ends there.
My biggest problem with this book is that it feels like he doesn’t engage with substantial arguments from the opposing side.
While showing in some places that he is capable of a more nuanced definition of supersessionism, most of his interaction with this view is either with extreme or straw-manned versions of it. He consistently repeats the idea that supersessionism is the “replacement of Jews by gentiles”. While there definitely have been individuals throughout history who held this view (and he does well to demonstrate this), I don’t believe this is the strongest version of, nor the predominant articulation of supersessionism.
Much of his arguments also seemed to be built upon showing that Jesus was in fact a Jew and the Jewish Messiah. However, he presents this as if it supports his view of the future of Israel in their land. Somewhat confusingly, when building his case that Jesus was very Jewish, he cites NT Wright, who is on the opposite side of the isle on Israel. The fact that he’s citing those who disagree with him to support his case shows that he fails to address some of the strongest points of disagreement. This happens at several points, where the author will make a defense of his own viewpoint, but as someone who disagrees on this issue, I could completely affirm with what he said as it missed the point of contention.
I would have loved to see the author interact with arguments from Romans 2, Philippians 3, the breaking off of the branches in Romans 11, etc. In several points (ex: Romans 7 or 11) it seems as though he would prefer to pick a verse out rather than how explaining the flow of the whole passage forms his viewpoint.
Overall, this book is not bad if you are looking for an explanation of a view that sees a future for Israel in the land, but if you’re looking for a defense and engagement with those who disagree, I recommend looking elsewhere.
My biggest problem with this book is that it feels like he doesn’t engage with substantial arguments from the opposing side.
While showing in some places that he is capable of a more nuanced definition of supersessionism, most of his interaction with this view is either with extreme or straw-manned versions of it. He consistently repeats the idea that supersessionism is the “replacement of Jews by gentiles”. While there definitely have been individuals throughout history who held this view (and he does well to demonstrate this), I don’t believe this is the strongest version of, nor the predominant articulation of supersessionism.
Much of his arguments also seemed to be built upon showing that Jesus was in fact a Jew and the Jewish Messiah. However, he presents this as if it supports his view of the future of Israel in their land. Somewhat confusingly, when building his case that Jesus was very Jewish, he cites NT Wright, who is on the opposite side of the isle on Israel. The fact that he’s citing those who disagree with him to support his case shows that he fails to address some of the strongest points of disagreement. This happens at several points, where the author will make a defense of his own viewpoint, but as someone who disagrees on this issue, I could completely affirm with what he said as it missed the point of contention.
I would have loved to see the author interact with arguments from Romans 2, Philippians 3, the breaking off of the branches in Romans 11, etc. In several points (ex: Romans 7 or 11) it seems as though he would prefer to pick a verse out rather than how explaining the flow of the whole passage forms his viewpoint.
Overall, this book is not bad if you are looking for an explanation of a view that sees a future for Israel in the land, but if you’re looking for a defense and engagement with those who disagree, I recommend looking elsewhere.
November 23, 2023
(3.5 stars)
McDermott adequately demonstrates Israel's importance in God's plans, and the importance of the land promises in both the OT and NT (a fact that few Christians are aware of). He also does a fine job of emphasizing Jesus' Jewishness, and highlights how greater awareness of this reality illuminates both testaments and their continuity.
Most of the shortcomings of this book can be attributed to its length, or more precisely, lack of length, and consequently lack of depth. Perhaps I am being a little too critical as the author is transparent regarding its introductory nature and popular-level audience. I may have to read his longer academic work on this subject to better engage with his ideas.
That being said, this book attempts to cover a lot of ground with few words, and consequently gives a sometimes low-resolution picture of certain biblical truths. McDermott quickly covers a history of supersessionism (replacement theology), a critique of its central tenets, a biblical case for the continued importance of the Jewish people and land (from a non-dispensational perspective) and a history of the Jewish return to the land, founding of the modern Israeli-state, and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While helpful examples are scattered throughout the book, nuance is sometimes sacrificed, and some opposing arguments (pro-supersessionism) are unfortunately missing and/or glossed over. Btw, this is coming from someone that is critical of supersessionism.
The strongest part of the book is McDermott's positive case for the continued importance of Israel and the land.
Although I agree with most of the author's conclusions and basic theological positions, some of the practical considerations and application points towards the end of the book were built on rather shacky assumptions.
McDermott adequately demonstrates Israel's importance in God's plans, and the importance of the land promises in both the OT and NT (a fact that few Christians are aware of). He also does a fine job of emphasizing Jesus' Jewishness, and highlights how greater awareness of this reality illuminates both testaments and their continuity.
Most of the shortcomings of this book can be attributed to its length, or more precisely, lack of length, and consequently lack of depth. Perhaps I am being a little too critical as the author is transparent regarding its introductory nature and popular-level audience. I may have to read his longer academic work on this subject to better engage with his ideas.
That being said, this book attempts to cover a lot of ground with few words, and consequently gives a sometimes low-resolution picture of certain biblical truths. McDermott quickly covers a history of supersessionism (replacement theology), a critique of its central tenets, a biblical case for the continued importance of the Jewish people and land (from a non-dispensational perspective) and a history of the Jewish return to the land, founding of the modern Israeli-state, and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While helpful examples are scattered throughout the book, nuance is sometimes sacrificed, and some opposing arguments (pro-supersessionism) are unfortunately missing and/or glossed over. Btw, this is coming from someone that is critical of supersessionism.
The strongest part of the book is McDermott's positive case for the continued importance of Israel and the land.
Although I agree with most of the author's conclusions and basic theological positions, some of the practical considerations and application points towards the end of the book were built on rather shacky assumptions.
December 13, 2023
I watched McDermott speak in a lecture interview with the Philos Project and was impressed with his breadth of knowledge as well as his responses to all of the most significant points brought up by Christians who are in the camp that Jews and the land of Israel are no longer important since Messiah came. Of course, Christians believe this and they have made it very difficult (Christianity over the course of time) for Jews to see Christianity as a conceivable option- and yet so many people are quick to point at the Jews and say, “well, it’s your fault this is happening, you rejected your messiah.” I have, since 7 October, heard no less than 4 times that the Jews did this to themselves. I’ve been speechless and astounded that this response even existed today because it is so heartless and dismissive. I converted to Catholicism primarily because I wanted to know more about Martin Luther. I thought of him my whole life as a hero and was so dismayed to read his own words and observe how arrogant, cruel and dismissive he was. I thought, surely no real Christian could treat brothers and sisters this way? I reeled and it made me wonder….was he wrong? Was the church something we should not have abandoned? Well, I’m seeing this again…how can real Christians treat others this way…because they deserve it? No regard to the tragic past Jews suffered at the hands or at the silence of the church and Christianity at large? I would think our attitude
would be more compassionate especially considering this nation gave us everything really. McDermott points out why we are actually indebted to Israel, he makes a case for why we are more connected than we think and also an interesting image of Christ that we ignore for the most part. I think this book is essential reading for every Christian.
would be more compassionate especially considering this nation gave us everything really. McDermott points out why we are actually indebted to Israel, he makes a case for why we are more connected than we think and also an interesting image of Christ that we ignore for the most part. I think this book is essential reading for every Christian.
August 15, 2021
Gerald McDermott makes a simple case for Christian Zionism rooted in God's promise to Abraham (Gen 12:1-3) and in Paul's olive tree analogy in Romans 11. The promise to Abraham includes the promise of the land.
He begins by giving a history of Christian supersessionism, the view that the Church is the "new Israel" and has replaced Israel in God's plan. He argues that the Bible does not teach supersessionism and gives a history of Christians through history who believed in a continuing role for national Israel in the plan of God.
McDermott addresses the "scandal of particularity" and observes the biblical pattern of God working through the particular to accomplish a universal goal. He presents Jesus and Paul as Torah-observant Jews who did not come to start a new religion. He addresses scriptures that are often raised in objection to Zionism, and looks at the implications for Christian belief and practice of a theology that takes proper account of Israel's role.
McDermott also takes a realistic look at the modern nation state of Israel and the Middle East conflict, and discusses how Christians can best view these issues. He presents a vision of the future based on the message of the biblical prophets, of a world ruled by Jesus from Jerusalem, the capital of a restored israel, living at peace with other restored nations.
On the whole, I found this book to be a wonderful introduction to "the new Christian Zionsim." The footnotes highlight great sources for further study of these issues.
He begins by giving a history of Christian supersessionism, the view that the Church is the "new Israel" and has replaced Israel in God's plan. He argues that the Bible does not teach supersessionism and gives a history of Christians through history who believed in a continuing role for national Israel in the plan of God.
McDermott addresses the "scandal of particularity" and observes the biblical pattern of God working through the particular to accomplish a universal goal. He presents Jesus and Paul as Torah-observant Jews who did not come to start a new religion. He addresses scriptures that are often raised in objection to Zionism, and looks at the implications for Christian belief and practice of a theology that takes proper account of Israel's role.
McDermott also takes a realistic look at the modern nation state of Israel and the Middle East conflict, and discusses how Christians can best view these issues. He presents a vision of the future based on the message of the biblical prophets, of a world ruled by Jesus from Jerusalem, the capital of a restored israel, living at peace with other restored nations.
On the whole, I found this book to be a wonderful introduction to "the new Christian Zionsim." The footnotes highlight great sources for further study of these issues.
October 8, 2024
This is an important book even more so with today's events in the Middle East and the escalation again of hostilities which is forever ongoing and probably will be. I like how he breaks down the questions, the arguments, the history, the controversial biblical texts and then gives his reasons for his belief that Israel, the land does matter. There are plenty of notes and references to Biblical as well as other relevant texts. I was a little confused by devoting a chapter speaking from his pastor's point of view which basically reinforced his views. But that is just a small thing in light of the importance of understanding why the land, promised to Abraham by God, still holds true today and is relevant in what is going on now. Sure, there are questions about the Palestinian/Israeli conflict along with the role that USA should play, but in the end, I believe, as my grandfather before me believed, that the Jews coming back and establishing the nation of Israel in 1948 began the ushering in of the last days. I also believe that Israel should be supported but that mercy should go to all men and women.
March 19, 2025
Just finished this book and I recommend it as a good introduction to where I've landed in much of my theology over the past 7 years of deep diving into the Jewishness of Jesus.
It addresses many misconceptions about supersessionism (the church replacing Israel), God's irrevocable covenant with his people, the purpose of Jew/Gentile distinction, and the implications of this in both our daily lives and future eschatology.
That said, I do agree with other reviewers that I wish the author had gone a little deeper in each chapter, unpacking the various arguments that people often have toward this viewpoint.
What a rich legacy we are grafted into, this Jewish root, from which came our Messiah. 🙏
It addresses many misconceptions about supersessionism (the church replacing Israel), God's irrevocable covenant with his people, the purpose of Jew/Gentile distinction, and the implications of this in both our daily lives and future eschatology.
That said, I do agree with other reviewers that I wish the author had gone a little deeper in each chapter, unpacking the various arguments that people often have toward this viewpoint.
What a rich legacy we are grafted into, this Jewish root, from which came our Messiah. 🙏
April 28, 2023
Woof. This book is bad. Most of his arguments depend on setting up a strawman and then whacking it down. He accuses Calvin and most of church history of supersessionism and and “replacement theology”. He says he used to believe in covenant theology yet completely misrepresents it. He says we are one in Christ in one breath, and yet he talks about how Jews should be Torah observant and their obedience should look different than Gentiles. You know your theology is problematic when you start a sentence with “for almost all of church history, they got it wrong” 😬
April 28, 2018
This is a good, non technical, essay for a general (evangelical) audience. It stimulates further reading.
A few remarks:
AT is mentioned as the Bible translation used, but the abbreviation is not explained.
Although the scope of the essay is limited, I would have likes some comments on Peter's vision in Acts 10, and above all some comments on 1Peter's way of speaking of the Church in "Israel-metaphors".
A few remarks:
AT is mentioned as the Bible translation used, but the abbreviation is not explained.
Although the scope of the essay is limited, I would have likes some comments on Peter's vision in Acts 10, and above all some comments on 1Peter's way of speaking of the Church in "Israel-metaphors".
January 1, 2023
Fine popular introduction to McDermott’s basic thesis regarding a theological account of the people and land of Israel.
Being a short introduction, this work suffers from a lack of depth that a more academic book would afford. Having read it, I mostly just feel like I need a longer book or a conversation with McDermott to be able to adequately articulate a real opinion or critique of his proposal.
Being a short introduction, this work suffers from a lack of depth that a more academic book would afford. Having read it, I mostly just feel like I need a longer book or a conversation with McDermott to be able to adequately articulate a real opinion or critique of his proposal.
April 17, 2018
McDermott goes into a very clear and simply way about why the Jewish people of Israel are still important to the world today. He uses scripture to back up his findings, and although he doesn't affirm or deny anything, he simply lays the evidence before you and asks you to decide for yourself. It was very insightful and was an easy read.
February 11, 2019
Interesting read. Exposed some of my blind spots. I didn't realize I didn't know quite a few of these things. At first I came into it on guard, thinking that I was going to disagree with some of his statements, but I only partially disagree in some places.
It's hard to follow in some places but once you get into it it's easier to understand where the writer is going.
It's hard to follow in some places but once you get into it it's easier to understand where the writer is going.
July 5, 2017
The author lays out the case why Christians must think differently about the people and the land. He then ends up giving us some little-known facts about the Palestinian/Israeli issue. He reminds us that we should do plenty of homework before declaring what "ought" to be done.
July 28, 2018
Gives a Biblical basis for how Israel and the Jews are seen by God in the past, now, and in the future. The book is easy to read and understand. The author devotes a chapter to theological objections which clarified some issues.
January 12, 2021
Good insights!
I recommend this book for anyone looking + study Israel as a first read. Good background info! I never thought Israel unimportant as the author posits others have; but it still gave me good context written in lamest terms
I recommend this book for anyone looking + study Israel as a first read. Good background info! I never thought Israel unimportant as the author posits others have; but it still gave me good context written in lamest terms
September 9, 2024
God led me to come across this in a public library in this chaotic period of history, presenting an easy-to-read discussion on this matter, utilising a lot of references, and Bible verses from both New and Old Testament to let us understand more about Him, the Chosen People and the Land.
September 12, 2017
A really good book! I didn't agree with everything the author posited, but he does force the reader to rethink very important aspects of Israel and how the church relates.
September 6, 2018
Easy to follow, thought-provoking, yet loses a mark for repetition - could have lost 30-40 pages without losing any of the main points and arguments.
April 15, 2019
See book critique
June 21, 2020
Really helpful to understand the new Christian Zionism and how this perspective understands scripture, the role of the Jewish people and land of Israel, interpretation of modern state of Israel, etc.
July 4, 2020
Thought provoking and approachable - was left wanting a bit more theological meat on the bones.
May 11, 2022
Every Christian needs to read this book!
January 13, 2023
The edition I read was 158 pages (Brazos Press, 2017, 23rd edition) but I don't have the permissions to add new editions.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews