It is important to have a clear understanding of the place Israel has in God’s plan of redemptive history. Without a revelation of Israel’s prophetic role, it is impossible to understand rightly, what the Bible says about the present and future—including the return of Jesus Christ, the triumph of His Kingdom on earth and the culmination of God’s plan for the ages.

“Look at the fig tree, and all the trees; as soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away till all has taken place. Luke 21:29-33 ESV

Numerous Bible scholars interpret the fig tree in this parable, also found in Matthew 24:32-33, as the nation of Israel. The fact that it is budding represents being in the Land – being restored as a nation.

Today, the miracle of Israel’s restoration is taking place right before our very eyes. Millions of Jews have returned to the land God promised them thousands of years ago. A slow trickle of Jews “making Aliyah,” the modern term for a Jewish person living in the nations who immigrates to Israel, began in the late 1800s, but the flow of new immigrants has increased dramatically since Israel was declared a nation in 1948. This is in fulfillment of countless prophecies throughout the Old Testament and confirmed by the words of Jesus recorded in Luke and Matthew. (See Scripture references listed on pages 14-16.)

Lest you be wise in your own sight, I do not want you to be unaware of this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. Romans 11:25 ESV

The Apostle Paul taught that ignorance concerning God’s plans and promises for Israel would lead the Gentiles to be wise in their own opinions. We truly need to understand the “mystery of Israel” — past, present, and future. 

In Romans 11, Paul teaches that God is not finished with national Israel. Promises made to Abraham are yet to be fulfilled. There are major threads of biblical prophecy tied to Israel. Understanding this theme, woven throughout all of Scripture, is essential to having a right understanding of where history is headed.

Chapters 9-11 of Romans is often overlooked by modern teachers and preachers. *Art Katz said, “Untold numbers of ministers have gone their whole lifetime never having preached from these texts (Romans chapters 9–11).

*Art Katz was an American author, preacher, and teacher who passed away in 2007. He was known for his writings on Christianity, Jewish roots, and end-time prophecy. He had a unique perspective on Israel and the Church, emphasizing the significance of Israel in God’s redemptive plan and the need for the Church to understand its Hebraic roots. His writing often challenge readers to consider their own spiritual journey and the importance of a deeper understanding of the Scriptures.