Christian Leaders in Israel Warn Christian Zionism Threatens Church’s Unity and Survival

Christian leaders in Israel have issued a warning that certain ideologies, including Christian Zionism, are misleading the public and endangering the unity and survival of the Christian community. On January 17, 2026, the heads of major churches in Jerusalem released a statement cautioning that these ideologies have gained traction among political actors and are advancing agendas that threaten the Christian presence in the Holy Land and the broader Middle East.

This statement marks a significant moment, as it is the first such warning from these leaders in nearly two decades. The patriarchs and senior bishops of the historic churches in the Holy Land—Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant—have long been custodians of Christianity’s oldest communities. Their authority is rooted in centuries of religious and communal life, predating modern nation-states and even the rise of Islam.

The warning comes shortly after a December summit in Jerusalem, organized by Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which brought together over 1,000 U.S. pastors. The event promoted a Christian Zionist narrative while largely overlooking the historic churches of the region. The recent statement from Jerusalem’s church leaders reflects a growing concern that such ideologies are not only divisive but also detrimental to the Church’s long-term presence in the area.

In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently asserted that Israel is the only country in the Middle East where Christians can practice their faith freely. This claim, while resonating in the West, is selective in its portrayal. Human rights organizations such as B’Tselem and HaMoked have documented the severe impact of occupation policies on Palestinian civilians, including restrictions on movement and denial of basic protections. These conditions affect all residents, including the region’s shrinking Christian communities.

The statement from Jerusalem’s church leaders underscores a call for faithful Christians to recognize the gravity of the situation. As custodians of ancient Christian communities, these leaders are urging reflection on the implications of ideologies that may be harming the Church’s unity and survival. Their message aligns with a biblical call for unity and justice, as seen in Micah 6:8, which reminds us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

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