Between Jesus and the Chosen Race Understanding the Relationship with IsraelThe phrase "Twixt Jesus and the Chosen Race" speaks to a deep and complex relationship between Jesus Christ and the nation of Israel. Often referred to as God’s chosen people, Israel plays a vital role in both the Old and New Testaments. Yet, when Jesus entered the scene, the dynamic between Him and the Jewish people introduced new dimensions to that identity. This topic explores the biblical, historical, and theological connection between Jesus and the chosen race.
Who Are the Chosen People?
God’s Covenant with Israel
The idea of a chosen people originates in the Old Testament. God selected Abraham and made a covenant with him, promising that his descendants would become a great nation (Genesis 122-3). This nation, Israel, was called to be a light to the world, set apart to reflect God’s glory through obedience, worship, and holiness.
The Law and the Prophets
Israel received the Law through Moses and was guided by judges, kings, and prophets. Throughout centuries, the Jewish people were reminded of their calling and warned about the consequences of disobedience. Despite periods of rebellion and exile, the covenant remained intact through God’s faithfulness.
The Arrival of Jesus
Born into the Jewish Lineage
Jesus was born into a Jewish family, from the tribe of Judah, and was raised in the traditions and customs of Israel. He did not appear as a stranger to Judaism but fulfilled its deepest hopes. His genealogy, as recorded in the Gospels, highlights His connection to David and Abraham, emphasizing His rightful place among the people of the covenant.
Fulfilling the Law, Not Abolishing It
In Matthew 517, Jesus states that He came not to abolish the Law, but to fulfill it. This declaration shows that Jesus honored the covenant and came to bring it to its intended completion. His teachings often challenged legalistic interpretations, but never denied the foundation of the Law.
Tensions Between Jesus and the Jewish Leaders
Religious Opposition
Much of Jesus’ earthly ministry was marked by tension with the religious authorities of the time. Pharisees, Sadducees, and scribes often clashed with Him over interpretations of the Law, Sabbath observance, and claims about His identity.
Rejection and Misunderstanding
Despite the many signs and miracles He performed, Jesus was rejected by many of His own people. John 111 notes, He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. This rejection was not universal, but it was significant, leading to His crucifixion under Roman authority, influenced by certain religious leaders.
The Chosen Race and the New Covenant
From Ethnic Lineage to Faith-Based Inclusion
Jesus introduced the New Covenant, as prophesied in Jeremiah 3131-34. This covenant was not based solely on ethnic identity, but on faith. Through Jesus, Gentiles were also welcomed into the promises of God. The Apostle Paul explains this shift in Galatians 328-29, stating that all who belong to Christ are heirs according to the promise.
The Olive Tree Analogy
In Romans 11, Paul uses the metaphor of an olive tree to describe Israel and the Gentiles. The original branches (Israel) were partially broken off due to unbelief, and wild branches (Gentiles) were grafted in. However, Paul warns Gentile believers not to boast, and assures that God is still able to graft the natural branches back in.
Jesus’ Compassion for Israel
Mourning Over Jerusalem
Jesus expressed deep sorrow over Jerusalem and the people of Israel. In Luke 1334, He lamented, Jerusalem, Jerusalem how often I have longed to gather your children together. His heart was not one of condemnation, but of longing and love.
The Gospel to the Jew First
Paul frequently reiterated that the Gospel is first to the Jew, then to the Gentile (Romans 116). This priority does not imply favoritism but honors the historical role of Israel as the starting point of God’s redemptive plan.
The Role of the Chosen People Today
Has God Rejected Israel?
Romans 111 asks, Has God rejected His people? Paul answers definitively By no means! God’s promises are irrevocable, and His covenant with Israel remains. While the Church has become the multi-ethnic body of Christ, Israel still holds a distinct place in God’s plan.
Messianic Jews and Fulfilled Identity
Many Jews today believe in Jesus as the Messiah and call themselves Messianic Jews. They embrace both their Jewish identity and the fulfillment found in Christ. Their faith reflects a bridge between Jesus and the chosen race, a living testimony of God’s faithfulness.
The Unity of God’s People
One Body in Christ
Ephesians 214-16 teaches that Jesus broke down the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile, making one new humanity. In Christ, ethnic divisions are reconciled, and believers share a common spiritual heritage.
God’s Eternal Plan
From the beginning, God’s plan was always to bless all nations through Abraham’s seed. Jesus is the fulfillment of that promise. While the chosen race played a crucial role, salvation through Christ is now extended to all who believe.
Conclusion Twixt Jesus and the Chosen Race
The relationship between Jesus and the chosen race is not one of replacement, but fulfillment and expansion. Jesus honored the covenant with Israel, fulfilled the Law, and opened the door for all nations to receive God’s grace. The Jewish roots of the Christian faith remain vital, and understanding this connection deepens one’s appreciation for the entire biblical narrative.
Between Jesus and the chosen race stands the cross where the covenant was fulfilled, and the way was made for all people to become part of God’s redemptive family.