Israel: The Chosen Vessel of Redemption
The idea that the nation of Israel was chosen by God is central to biblical theology but is often misunderstood. Rather than being an arbitrary selection or an act of favoritism, Israel’s chosen-ness was rooted in a divine purpose—to bring redemption into the world. This mission was established through a covenant and carried responsibilities as well as promises. While Israel’s role was foundational, its fulfillment found completion in Jesus, who embodied Israel’s mission and brought redemption to the entire world.
Israel’s Purpose: A Mission, not a Privilege
Israel was chosen not for its inherent greatness but to serve as a “kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (Exodus 19:5-6). This meant they were to uphold God’s laws and serve as a light to the nations. The covenant with Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3) established that the seed of Abraham, manifested through Isaac and Jacob-called-Israel and eventually through the Children of Israel, would be a great nation through which “all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” Deuteronomy 7:7-8 clarifies that God’s choice was not due to Israel’s size or power but because of His love and the covenant He swore to their ancestors. Their election carried a mission: to demonstrate God’s righteousness and mediate His presence to the world.
The Covenant: Unconditional and Conditional Elements
The Bible presents Israel’s chosen-ness as both unconditional and conditional. The covenant with Abraham (Genesis 17:7) is described as “everlasting,” indicating that Israel’s role in God’s plan is irrevocable. Paul reaffirms this in Romans 11:29: “For the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable.” However, the Mosaic Covenant (Exodus 19-24, Deuteronomy 28) set conditions for Israel’s blessings. Obedience brought prosperity, while disobedience led to exile and suffering. Despite their failures, the prophets spoke of a faithful remnant (Isaiah 10:20-22) and a future restoration.
Why God Forsook Israel at Times
God’s covenant faithfulness included discipline when Israel forsook the Covenant. Scripture explains why He temporarily forsook Israel: Idolatry led to divine judgment (Deuteronomy 31:16-18, Judges 2:12-14). Breaking the Covenant resulted in exile (Jeremiah 11:10-11). Moral Corruption and Injustice brought divine wrath (Isaiah 1:15-20, Amos 5:21-24). Lack of Repentance and ignoring the call of the prophets led to rejection (Jeremiah 7:13-15). Trust in Human Alliances, namely seeking protection from Egypt and Assyria instead of God, led to downfall (Isaiah 30:1-3, Hosea 5:13-15). Spiritual Adultery resulted in Israel being likened to an unfaithful spouse (Jeremiah 3:6-8, Ezekiel 16). Defiling the Sabbath and the Temple and disregard for sacred practices resulted in judgment (Ezekiel 20:12-13, Ezekiel 8-10). Rejecting God’s Kingship and wanting a human king showed a rejection of God’s rule (1 Samuel 8:7-8). Violating the Land’s Laws led to exile so the land could rest (Leviticus 26:33-35, 2 Kings 24:3-4). Punishment as Correction leading to restoration was promised (Deuteronomy 4:27-31, Jeremiah 31:31-34).
Jesus as the Embodiment of Israel’s Mission
Jesus’ final words on the cross — “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34) and “It is finished” (John 19:30) — echo Israel’s story. These statements show how Jesus embodied Israel’s suffering, exile, and ultimate redemption: “My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?” – This quotation from Psalm 22 reflects Israel’s history of suffering and apparent abandonment. Jesus, as Israel’s representative, experienced divine separation on behalf of the people, fulfilling their mission and taking on their sin. “It Is Finished” – The Greek word “tetelestai” signifies completion. Jesus fulfilled Israel’s mission to be a light to the nations (Isaiah 49:6). Where Israel failed, Jesus succeeded, bringing salvation to all.
Today, Jesus is the true Israel
Jesus is the true Israel (Hosea 11:1, Matthew 2:15). Just as Israel wandered in the wilderness for 40 years, Jesus fasted for 40 days (Matthew 4:1-2). His obedience contrasted with Israel’s failures, making Him the perfect fulfillment of the covenant.
Conclusion
Israel’s chosen-ness was always about bringing redemption to the world. Though they faced judgment for their failures, God’s covenant remained. Jesus, as the Messianic embodiment of Israel, fulfilled its mission by becoming the ultimate blood of atonement on the cross, securing redemption for all. Through His resurrection, both Israel and the nations receive the promise of restoration and Oneness with God for those who believe.