Jerusalem Historic Churches Condemn Christian Zionism as ‘Damaging’ Ideology

Leaders of the historic or apostolic churches in the Holy Land have issued a joint statement condemning Christian Zionism as a “damaging ideology” that “misleads the public, sows confusion, and harms the unity of our flock.” The statement, released on January 17, highlights a growing tension between the small Palestinian Christian community and the U.S. evangelical groups that have long supported Israel. These historic churches, which represent the majority of Christians in the region, assert that they alone speak for the Christian presence in the Holy Land, not the Christian Zionists who advocate for a political alignment between Christianity and the state of Israel.
The current Israeli government, which opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state, has intensified its repression of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. While the majority of Palestinians are Muslim, a significant number of Christians in the region identify as Palestinians and have historical claims to the land since the time of Jesus. These Christians, who make up less than 1% of the population in the West Bank and Gaza and about 2% of Israelis, face increasing challenges to their religious and cultural identity.
The statement comes less than two months after a week-long solidarity mission trip led by 1,000 evangelical and Christian Zionist pastors and influencers. Organized by the pro-Israel Friends of Zion organization and Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the trip included meetings with Israeli officials, visits to holy sites, and a visit to locations associated with the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas massacre. The church leaders’ statement appears to reference this trip without naming it, suggesting that such efforts have been welcomed by certain political actors in Israel and beyond, who may be pushing a political agenda that could harm the Christian presence in the Holy Land and the broader Middle East.
The church officials expressed concern that these individuals have been “welcomed at official levels both locally and internationally.” They argue that such actions constitute “interference in the internal life of the churches” and “disregard the pastoral responsibility vested in the Patriarchs and Heads of Churches in Jerusalem.” This criticism reflects a broader tension between the historic churches and the growing influence of Christian Zionism, which has increasingly shaped U.S. and Israeli policies.
Christian Zionism, which promotes the idea that the return of Jews to the land of Israel is a fulfillment of biblical prophecy, has gained significant traction in both Israel and the United States. Figures like Mike Huckabee, the U.S. ambassador to Israel, have publicly supported this ideology. Huckabee, while expressing respect for traditional, liturgical churches, emphasized that no single sect should claim exclusivity in representing all Christians globally. This sentiment underscores the complex interplay between religious identity, political influence, and the future of the Christian presence in the Holy Land.
The church leaders’ statement calls for a reevaluation of the role of Christian Zionism in shaping public discourse and policy. They argue that the ideology not only misleads the public but also undermines the unity of the Christian community. In the context of rising tensions and the ongoing conflict in the region, the call for a return to a more unified and pastoral approach reflects a desire to prioritize peace, justice, and the well-being of all people, regardless of faith. As Micah 6:8 reminds us, the Lord requires us to “do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with our God.” This biblical principle serves as a reminder of the moral responsibility that accompanies religious and political engagement.

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