Spiritual Israelites

Spiritual Israelites

Just as millions of Arabs are now opposing the Jews and posting guards to hinder them from entering the land, so the spiritual Israelites meet the same fierce resistance from the religious Arabs. The children of the bondwoman have always persecuted the children of the freewoman, not the other way around. Paul said: They curse, but we bless. Even in Jesus’ days they began posting sentries at the gates that led to the spiritual Israel. The Pharisees in those days did not have the mind to enter through the narrow gate, and they hindered the others from entering in. We also have had the experience that religious denominations posted sentries to take note of which of their members dared to enter our meetings. Yes, “children of the bondwoman” is surely the correct name for these enslaved members of the denominations. However, as truly as there is a spiritual Israelite who is among the elect, you can be certain that he will find his way to the narrow gate that leads to life in Jerusalem together with his fellow brethren. There he will find God’s blessing and fellowship in the Spirit in light, truth, and purity; that is where he will find spiritually enriching food. You do not have to warn such people and tell them to go either here or there. Peter said, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” Therefore, if their sheep are feeding on bare meadows and there is a field of fresh clover close by, they will have a hard time watching over their flock.

A true, spiritual Israelite is born to liberty and victory by the Word of truth. They bear the promise with them wherever they are, always coming with a fullness of the blessing of Christ. Wherever they are in this world, they conduct themselves as true Israelites—separate and undefiled by the spirit of the world—knowing where their fellow brothers are. They are the ones who do God’s will. They are succulent branches that the Lord has planted; they do not need all kinds of religious entertainment to stay alive. They are nourished and thrive on God’s Word. If they are alone in their home, village, or town they remain firm and unshakable in the truth and abound in the work of the Lord. The resistance they meet has the same effect as good fertilizer—furthering their growth and progress. Tribulations are easy and light and work an eternal weight of glory in them, while they see things that are not seen. What a glorious calling and election this is! They do not have an abiding city on this earth, but they seek that which is to come. There each one of them will receive their rightful place and will be accorded honor and glory. There they will be abundantly repaid for what they have denied themselves here.

Lift your head with boldness and rejoice, O true Israelite, in whom there is no guile! Soon you will have reached the goal, and the glory will be without end!