If there is hope that the nation of Israel will recognize Jesus as the Messiah, how would that fit with the unity of believers? “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal.3:27-28) The scripture cites a spiritual reality, yet there are earthly protocols.
Consider the differences between a man and woman: “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.” (Eph.5:22-23) Do these differences stand in the eternal glory or does the Lord intend for us to keep these truths for the earthly condition? Jesus said; “. . .The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage. .” (Lk.20:34) It is evident there is an earthly arrangement for man and woman separate from the world to come.
It is similar with regard to Israel. There is neither Jew nor Greek (Gentile) in the spiritual dimension. Yet, there are earthly realities that must be respected.
Israel is called:
- The natural branches.
- Beloved for the sake of the fathers.
These references are not about Gentiles who have received the Messiah of Israel.