The Rise of Global Antisemitism: A Spiritual Battle Unfolding
Scroll to read a recap of Pastor Lee Cummings’ sermon from August 24, 2025!
A Toxic Cup Spreading Across Nations
The rise of global Jew-hatred and anti-Israel sentiment is a toxic cup intoxicating our culture. We are watching its effects spread rapidly across nations—including our own—at an unprecedented rate.
This irrational prejudice against the Jewish people is nothing new. Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel once said,
“Antisemitism is an irrational disease, the unsolvable puzzle. The world has changed in the last 2,000 years, and only antisemitism has remained.”
But for those who look to Scripture, this hatred is not a mystery at all—it is a spiritual battle with eternal implications.
The Ancient Conflict in Scripture
The Bible makes it clear that this hatred has roots far deeper than politics. Revelation depicts Israel as a woman pursued by a dragon (Satan), representing the enemy’s determination to destroy God’s chosen people. From Pharaoh’s infanticide to Hitler’s Holocaust, history shows repeated attempts to annihilate the Jewish people.
Why such relentless hatred toward such a small group—just 0.025 percent of the world’s population? The answer lies in God’s covenant promises: Israel was chosen not out of favoritism but as the vessel through which God would bless the nations. Through the Jewish people came the Messiah, fulfilling God’s promise to Abraham that “through your seed all nations will be blessed.”
This plan infuriates Satan. His obsession with destroying Israel is ultimately a futile attempt to nullify God’s purposes.
From Political Criticism to Naked Hatred
It is possible to critique the policies of a nation without being antisemitic. But much of today’s rhetoric goes far beyond political disagreement: protesters chanting, “We will burn Jews alive just like Hitler did”; politicians posing proudly with swastikas; media narratives dripping with bias. This isn’t just about Israel’s government—it’s about the very existence of the Jewish people.
Scripture warns us of this:
“Behold, I am about to make Jerusalem a cup of staggering to all the surrounding peoples. . .On that day I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the peoples” (Zech. 12:2–3).
We are watching that prophecy unfold before our eyes.
When the Church Drinks the Same Poison
It’s most heartbreaking when antisemitism creeps into the Church. Replacement theology—the belief that God has permanently rejected Israel and transferred his promises to the Church—is one of the most dangerous doorways to antisemitism. It’s difficult to be Bible-believing Christians who worship Jesus, a Jewish Messiah, if we do not correctly understand the Bible’s view of human history.
God’s Word is unshakable:
“If this fixed order [of nature] departs from before me, declares the Lord, then shall the offspring of Israel cease from being a nation before me forever” (Jer. 31:36).
As long as the sun rises and sets, God’s covenant with Israel stands.
God’s Purposes for Israel Remain
Does this mean Israel is above criticism? No. The modern state of Israel is not immune to human error. Our hearts should break for the pain that exists globally. Jesus loves the Arab people, the Palestinian people, just as much as he loves the Jewish people.
But it does mean God’s plan for Israel remains intact. He will fulfill his promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. As Paul declared,
“A partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And in this way all Israel will be saved” (Rom. 11:25–26).
Jesus is ultimately coming back to a Jewish-occupied Jerusalem to judge the nations and rule on earth.
How Should Christians Respond?
Jesus will return. Israel will recognize their Messiah. God’s kingdom will be established on earth. Until that day, our role is clear: stand firm in faith and love both Jew and Gentile as Christ loves us.
The return of Jesus is near, and within our lifetime, we may witness unprecedented events unfolding before our eyes. We cannot be swept up in the spirit of the age but must root ourselves deeply in God’s Word. We are called to be sober-minded and alert, refusing the intoxicating influence of the antichrist spirit.
May we be found faithful when Christ returns—loving what he loves and resisting what he resists.
Tap to watch Pastor Lee Cummings’ full sermon on Youtube.
Here's a 5-day devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: God's Unwavering Love for His People
Reading: Jeremiah 31:35–37
Devotional: God's love for Israel, and by extension all His people, is as constant as the laws of nature. Just as the sun rises each day, God's commitment to His chosen ones remains unshakeable. Reflect on how this enduring love applies to your life. In times of doubt or struggle, remember that God's love for you is not based on your performance, but on His unchanging character.
Day 2: The Mystery of God's Plan
Reading: Romans 11:25–27
Devotional: God's ways often seem mysterious to us, especially when it comes to His plan for Israel and the nations. Paul speaks of a "partial hardening" that has come upon Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles comes in. This reminds us that God's timeline and methods may not always align with our expectations. Consider areas in your life where you're struggling to understand God's plan. How can you cultivate trust in His wisdom, even when you don't fully comprehend His ways?
Day 3: Standing Firm in the Face of Opposition
Reading: Psalm 2:1–6
Devotional: The nations may rage against God and His anointed, but the Lord remains unshaken. In a world that increasingly opposes biblical values, how can we stand firm in our faith? Reflect on the assurance that God has established His king in Zion. How does this truth empower you to live boldly for Christ, even in the face of cultural opposition or personal challenges?
Day 4: Hope in the Coming Kingdom
Reading: Zechariah 14:9–11
Devotional: Amidst prophecies of trouble and tribulation, we find the promise of Christ's return and His eternal reign. This hope should shape our perspective on current events and personal struggles. How does the anticipation of Christ's kingdom impact your daily life? Consider ways you can live today as a citizen of that coming kingdom, bringing glimpses of God's rule into your sphere of influence.
Day 5: Our Role in God's Redemptive Plan
Reading: Romans 11:11–15
Devotional: As believers, we play a part in God's plan for Israel and the nations. Paul speaks of provoking Israel to jealousy through the faith of Gentile believers. This challenges us to live our faith authentically and lovingly. Reflect on how your life might be a witness to God's love and truth. Are there ways you can show Christ's love to Jewish friends or neighbors? How can you pray more effectively for the peace of Jerusalem and the salvation of all people?
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