I posted this at http://bgamall.stumbleupon.com
Reader comment on item: Jewish and Arab Demographics in Jerusalem

Submitted by Gary Anderson (United States), May 24, 2007 at 14:37

... My interpretation will make neither side happy, but this is consistent with the words of Christ. Palestinians deserve a just settlement. Israel has the right to defense against terrorists. But she needs to continue to try for peace.

One must realize that Israel, the fig tree being a sign of the last of the last days, is not holy. It does not nor will it have the authority of the Old Covenant kingdom. Therefore, it is more stable as a democracy and not as a theocracy that is hell-bent on establishing the borders of the Old Kingdom.

But as long as Hamas refuses to recognize the rights of Israel to exist they will never have the nation they should have. Israel is light years ahead of Arab countries in economic production and giving a better life to their citizens. So, Hamas really should be pragmatic and recognize Israel. Without that their credibility is zero and their future leading a Palestinian nation is futile. Condi Rice has said that Hamas is NOT a terrorist organization. IF they would recognize Israel she may have a case. But the words of Christ show that the existence of Israel is meant to be and is beyond the forces of man to determine.

New Testament scripture says that the establishment of Israel is a sign that the end of the end is near. The fig tree rising up is a sign to those called in Christ. It is not a dispensationalist or Zionist notion that the nation is or will be holy. Matthew 24:32-37. However, the fact that Jesus mentioned Israel's existence in these last of last times means that her existence is set in stone... It remains their descendants' responsibility to help the Palestinians with sacrifice.

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