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Contents
Here's the second of three parts of a chapter
which Zola will contribute to an upcoming
prophecy book.
Enter the Antichrist (Part II)
Zola Levitt
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ZOLA LEVITT
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A fascinating way of looking at whether events in Israel now propel us
into the actual Tribulation Period to come is to consider the likelihood
of the Antichrist entering at this time. We must all realize that the
beginning of the Tribulation period is marked by the peace covenant to
be signed between the Antichrist and the people of Israel
(Daniel 9:27),
and thus, the likelihood of the Antichrist actually appearing gives us
clues to the proximity of the Tribulation Period itself.
This reasoning is based on the point that Israel is the timepiece by
which we can estimate world events and the fulfillment of End Times
prophecies. Without that knowledge, one is completely in the dark in
judging the progress of events. I say this because our leading
seminaries, Moody Bible Institute, Dallas Theological Seminary, Talbot
Seminary and Biola College, just to mention a few (who were formerly
right on track with God's workings in Israel), have de-emphasized that
nation in recent times. A doctrine called Progressive Dispensationalism
— basically a way of avoiding the inconvenience of witnessing to
Jews and watching and praying for Israel — is rapidly coming to the
fore in prophecy teaching these days. Whether this is political
correctness — to side with the media against Israel — or
simply classical Biblical error is unclear. But it should be known that
when the Tribulation breaks out in Israel, and when the thousand-year
Kingdom gets underway in that land, the least equipped to appreciate any
of that will be the graduates of our "best seminaries."
In general, End Times prophecy has been relegated to conferences and
special convocations rather than being the normal bill of fare in the
seminary and the pulpit. A few pastors teach End Times prophecy, but in
general it is considered "controversial" or perhaps too complex to
undertake in the venue of the local church. Such thinking is
unconscionable at just the time we need to most fully understand the
Biblical revelations about the End Times.
With all of that said, we who understand that God is working in Israel
today and may well be bringing on the very prophecy fulfillments we have
always taught, are on the edges of our seats. Obviously, the
Anti-christ's entrance is well prepared at this moment, if indeed this
is the moment the Tribulation will come.
An actor's entrance is ordinarily announced by a cue, a single line that
tells him when to step upon the stage and play his part. Usually that
line is precipitated by some plot development that those familiar with
the play are able to follow. And so we expect the appearance of
such-and-such a character at such-and-such a moment, once the stage has
been set and the other actors are properly motivated for that entrance.
And so it is in the situation of Israel and the Antichrist.
What we can see is this: the world inexplicably imagines that there has
to be a peace treaty made between Israel and the Arabs of the land who
call themselves Palestinians. I say "inexplicably" because the problems
in Israel, while amazingly magnified by the media, are really localized
ones occurring in probably fifty places around the world. Even the
unrest of October 2000 — held by many to be the start of a general
Middle Eastern war (or even World War III!) — was a matter of the
sort of rioting seen from time to time in every democracy. And yet,
virtually since the 1973 war, the Arabs have clamored for some sort of
"peace" agreement, especially if the agreement contains the infamous
"land for peace" principle.
In reality, there is no such principle in world history. No country ever
gave up part of its land so that its neighbors would promise not to
attack it. It's sort of like agreeing to lose the war before the war
starts. But in a generally anti-Semitic world, Israel has found that it
has been better to play along — to give up small portions of land,
or at least non-strategic land — for paper promises that have not
proven true.
The most remarkable exchange in all this "peace processing" was Barak's
generous offers of summer 2000, and Arafat's refusal to even answer.
Rather than counter-propose or at least continue the spirit of
negotiation, the Palestinian dictator simply fomented ghetto rioting
that the media was pleased to call an "armed struggle." Youthful zealots
trashing their own neighborhoods, as also happens in Los Angeles or
Detroit, were characterized as fighting some sort of "War for
Independence" or "Battle for Jerusalem," and Israel tried gently to
suppress the virtual gangsterism.
That situation is still pending as we go to print, but it appears at
this point that the Arabs will accomplish little except in public
relations with these latest demonstrations.
Zola's chapter will conclude in next month's newsletter.
 Return to Index
Editorial
A "New Jerusalem"
By Zola Levitt
How about this? You can now visit a very authentic-looking Israel
theme park in Orlando, Florida. The excellent ministry called Zion's
Hope has just opened up the "Holy Land Experience" and I was there for
the premiere on February 4-6.
We also took our crew and did some filming at the site. Frankly, I had
anticipated that it might be a little bit "American," or that it might
come out kind of hokey. But I was very pleasantly surprised, and so was
our producer and film crew. We utilized the splendid first-century
temple (almost full size!) to include in our upcoming series Upon
this Rock.
And we also very much enjoyed just strolling through the place like
pilgrims. It's extremely authentic; you almost think you're in the
streets of Jerusalem's Old City. In fact, it's first-century style, and
so you feel you are back in Bible days. Even the real Israel can't
provide that! People in robes bid you "Shalom" as you pass by, and
Levitical priests blowing ram's horns are seen now and again. There are
shops that persuade you that you are actually in first-century
Jerusalem, and that's all there is to that. There are potters and
carpenters of ancient times seen at their work. An artisan is busy
making wooden cages for pigeons for sacrifices (but they don't do the
actual sacrifices). There's even an ice cream flavor called "Milk and
Honey."
You come to a very authentic Garden Tomb guarded by two menacing Roman
centurions in full ancient uniforms, complete with long spears, and then
a model of the Tabernacle with one of the most startling special effects
for the "Pillar of Fire" that I've ever laid eyes on. Qumran with its
caves where the Dead Sea scrolls were found is also perfectly
represented.
The very street and its passersby — Biblical Christians all —
have an especially pleasant spiritual atmosphere. There is also, of
course, perfect safety. Even though I have talked myself blue reassuring
people that the real Israel is safe for travel, I have found many people
are still reluctant to go. It seems that this "Holy Land Experience"
comes at a good time.
I haven't really done all the scheduling as yet, but I'm anticipating
taking a tour of "pilgrims" to the Orlando Holy Land Experience in the
first week of May. We will probably have two hotel overnights and three
days at the site, along with teaching by our staff and me. The whole
package with meals, local transportation, etc., will be in the
neighborhood of $300 for the Friday afternoon through Sunday night
experience.
Orlando is easily reachable by plane, of course, and folks throughout
the southeast can probably drive there. The entire undertaking is much
simpler than our Israel tours because it involves less time and less
expense, but it provides the same solid Christian fellowship. On the
other hand, the true Israel where our Lord walked is impossible to beat.
Put it this way: if you have stayed away from our tours for reasons of
distance, cost, disability, or time considerations, this probably would
be a very good experience for you. Again, I can vouch for the
authenticity of the place.
If you're interested in
this tour
on May 4-6, 2001, we are going to
print up a brochure and we'd be glad to take you through the site on a
first-come, first-served basis.
If the tour is over-subscribed we'll simply continue on the following
weekend with a second group, and so forth. If you wish to stay in
Orlando between the weekends or to see the other attractions there,
we'll be able to help you. Please call Tony Derrick at 214-696-9760 for
more information
[or click here for an online form].
I hope to see you in Florida, and in Jerusalem in this life or the next!
Return to Index
Zola's Bulletin Board
The Old Jerusalem
After reading "A 'New Jerusalem'" on page 3, you may think, "There's
nothing like the real thing." You're right — there is simply no
substitute for the electricity in the air at the center of the universe.
The Holy Land Experience in Orlando may be the best choice for those
with limited time and/or finances. Then again,imagine how few people
say, "I wish I had spent less time with my children" or "If only I
hadn't gone to the Land of the Bible...." Not likely.
Our April tours depart on the 11th, with a Greek cruise, and on the
16th for our Deluxe Tour. Both return on the 26th. We'll begin our
Holy Land Experience weekend in Orlando on May 4. Our Israel Kibbutz
tour runs from June 5 to June 15. Please call ASAP if you're prepared
to create the memories of a lifetime — (214) 696-9760 during office
hours or 1-800-WONDERS (966-3377) anytime.
Highest Murder Rates
The Top 10 book, published by DK, rates California
(2,916) and Texas (1,496) as the worst states for
murders per year. The worst cities are New
York (983), Chicago (789) and Los Angeles (709) — outdoing,
by far, the entire nation of Israel, which has
always had a negligible violent crime rate.
CENSORED: For Zion's Sake
Good News: TBN is helping our program to go global.
Bad News: Europe's counterpart to our Federal
Communications Commission prohibits
discussing to whom Israel belongs or anything that could be
deemed political. If you watched Zola only on TBN,
then you missed some of his most poignant commentary ever.
On page 15, you can order the 30-minute TV program
"For Zion's Sake — I Shall Not Keep Silent."
[Or click here to view it online.]
Airing Updates
TBN will preempt our program on Monday, April 2, at 7:00 AM.
Expanding overseas presents two primary hurdles: language barriers and
tape format differences. We can subtitle or lip-synch our programs, plus
we can copy our programs onto other formats. In the midst of determining
where the best foreign values are, we are wait-listed with a Canadian station.
In Australia, we hope that a secular station will carry us affordably enough
to make it practical for us to broadcast on their only Christian channel.
Korea and Brazil may be where we add the most households. Of course,
anyone in the world can watch
Zola on Internet TV
at www.levitt.com.
www.levitt.com
Our home page on the Internet is growing continuously. Besides offering
you faster access to our newsletter than snail mail, it has:
Consumer Reports allows full access to their web site for $3.95
per month or $24 per year. Our price: free.
Return to Index
A Note From Zola
Dear Friends,
Where newly-elected Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is concerned,
please ignore the media once again. That's my suggestion. I spent two
hours with the man a few years ago, and he's nothing like they describe.
They have one negative story about him, an accusation from the early
'80's that doesn't hold much water, and on that basis our
scandal-mongering media make him out to be hateful, brutal, blah, blah,
blah, etc., etc.
And if the Arabs are upset with Sharon's election, they might answer the
simple question, "When's the last time you had an election?"
I myself have visited the Al Aksa mosque (without causing a stir) and
the Dome of the Rock, and both Moslem shrines are situated on the Temple
Mount platform. The Dome is a quiet place, used mostly for women's
prayers, and the mosque is mostly a cavernous single room, well attended
by an audience of men during a Friday service but otherwise virtually
empty much of the time. I can't help but be convinced that the
Palestinians are not a very religious people, even though that's a big
part of their propaganda. The buildings are not well-maintained, and the
Palestinian police presence is rather off-putting. Only Moslem Arabs and
Christian pilgrims are found on the Mount; Jews never go up there for
fear of stepping on the Holy of Holies (except for some groups pressing
for Jewish prayer on the platform). If it weren't so useful for the Arab
public relations process, this Temple Mount would be an almost
meaningless part of their culture. But to the Jews it's the center of
their universe.
As one teacher said at a recent prophecy conference, "Israel is indeed
precious to Christians and to Moslems, but it was promised to the Jews!"
These are some stray ideas that come off my pocket recorder, so again
forgive the order and organization, but here are my thoughts for the
month for what they're worth.
On page 3 is my report, "A 'New Jerusalem,'"
on The Holy Land Experience in Orlando, Florida.
The media would have you believe there were tremendous protests going on
during the premiere. That simply wasn't true. I was personally in
attendance for three days and saw thousands of people go through the
site. There was one protester with a sign that said, inexplicably, "Calm
His Anger." The press in Orlando doubled it to two protesters, and I was
told later that there was a grand total of three. That's compared to the
thousands who enjoyed the place. The media in Miami, who I understand
paid fifty dollars last year to some youngsters to set tires on fire so
they'd have some thrilling video during the Elian controversy, played up
the protesters instead of the magnificent recreation of first-century
Israel.
The devastating earthquake in India, which came and went in the press
within a couple of days, involved more than 30,000 violent deaths, or
about 1,000 for each casualty in Israel during a much longer period of
time. So a monumental Indian tragedy was relegated to an inside-page
story in only a couple of days. Our media would obviously much rather
bash Israel.
I spoke at the 9th Annual Pre-Trib Study Group conference in Dallas in
December and received terrific applause when I mentioned the failings of
the seminaries we have been criticizing. Those very knowledgeable
professors, about a hundred of them in attendance, were completely on
our side.
The suggestion of dividing the Temple Mount brings up a very interesting
point in regard to prophecy (although the Jews certainly shouldn't give
up an inch of the thing to anyone since it was the authentic site of
their ancient temples). Some people are suggesting the Mount be divided
between the Arabs on the top platform where their shrines are and the
Jews below where the Western Wall is. If that were amended to simply
splitting the top between the two factions, we would have a situation
that would almost agree with Revelation 11:1-2, where an angel directs
John to "Rise and measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who
worship there. But leave out the court which is outside the temple...."
The Scripture seems to allude to a divided platform — a sign of the
End?
My son Aaron observed that Israel has gone from a false peace to a false
war.
Pardon my weariness, but people are after me these days because, after
all, I'm a Jew like Sharon and a Christian like our new Attorney
General, John Ashcroft!
The Pan-Am verdict, in which we sentenced one Arab terrorist, cost $80
million. I just wonder at the entire cost to the civilized world of Arab
terrorism. I am aware that the Israelis who depend on tourism have lost
a fortune during the present "uprising," but that's not so much caused
by the terrorism as it is the media playing up the terrorism. (As I've
pointed out endlessly, the casualty rate in Israel, even during this
difficult period, is no worse than any large American city. That nation
is still 100% safe for tourism.) The cost of building huge missile
defense systems, etc., against possible attacks from Iran, Iraq, Syria,
etc., are enormous, and the time lost by airport questions and searches
— primarily instituted because of Arab terrorism — adds up.
All told, we pay a terrific price in this world to defend ourselves
against a few rabble-rousers who beat their chests in religious pride
over murdering innocent civilians.
And when it comes down to just why the world blames Israel for what
is obviously the work of the usual Arab terrorists, I came up with four
reasons (you may be able to add some more). Number one is cash. The
Arabs have the oil and that's all there is to that. We must bow to them,
please them and do what they say. If they want the cockamamie
Palestinian police state to be a real country, then we have to make it
become a real country, or they'll cut off our life-blood — the oil
that runs our factories and automobiles and makes our plastics and
cosmetics, etc. Reason number two is standard anti-Semitism. If the Jews
did it (even the remarkable feat of building a modern nation in a
generation), it's no good. Enough said. Reason number three is simply
the unbeliever's philosophy — what the Bible calls the spirit of
the Antichrist. Whatever God does, such as restoring His people to their
land and causing them to prosper, the world inexplicably opposes. Reason
number four is propaganda — the sort of baloney put out by Arafat
and his henchmen about Israeli brutality, American imperialism, blah,
blah, blah.
It comes down to the worldly vs. the godly, and the worldly are tired of
seeing Israel do well. When I was in Florida, I chanced to be a member
of a dinner party containing a number of unbelievers who thought they
knew quite a good deal about the situation in Israel. I sat there
forming these thoughts as they blared on, finally getting up and walking
out. It is amazing how polarized our world is today over essentially
godly things.
If you don't believe me when I tell you that Israel is safe for travel,
then come on our June Kibbutz tour
and I will show you that it is!
The Kibbutz tour is scheduled for June 5th-15th, and it is a
perfect summer holiday for students and teachers. This is also our most
economical tour and one that is a little different from all the others,
because our pilgrims get to experience life on an authentic Israeli
cooperative farm. These farming collectives are the truly the pioneering
foundation on which the State of Israel was built.
We will stay in comfortable farm guesthouses at the Sea of Galilee and
in the forests of Israel and will enjoy the very same itinerary as our
Deluxe Tours, visiting all the major Biblical sites. Along with the many
spiritually enriching and educational experiences on this unique tour,
we also have an added exciting adventure — we are going on an
actual archaeological dig. If this sounds like the tour for you, call
for more information at 1-800-WONDERS any time, or during office hours
call Tony Derrick at 214-696-9760.
We'll introduce our new Orlando tour
at The Holy Land Experience on the
first weekend in May (Friday the 4th through Sunday the 6th). Please see
the article titled "A 'New Jerusalem'" for our take of the premiere we
attended at this Christ-honoring theme park.
During the upcoming April tour in Israel, our TV crew will be filming
for our next television series, which will concern the happy subject of
The Future of Believers. This ten-program series will involve a
thorough discussion of what will happen to those who are saved rather
than the same old stuff about what happens to the others. Thanks in
advance for your help with this important project.
Our following tour will be what is becoming perhaps our most popular
tour of all — the Ultra Grand Tour in September. Call for
details on the Israel-Greece-Petra options from which you can choose.
[Or click here for an online form.]
This year in Jerusalem!
— Your messenger,
Return to Index
Greetings from Tiberias
Dear Zola,
I wanted to share this with you, to give you a little bit of a proper
perspective on the current troubles here in the Land. Have a good laugh
and please keep us in your prayers.
Much Shalom,
Bill (not near the fridge)
From the pen of satirist Uri Orbach:
In America, everyone knows that it is terribly dangerous in Israel now,
and it is not recommended to travel to Israel.
In Israel, everyone knows that it is dangerous only in the territories
and in a little bit of Jerusalem.
In Jerusalem, everyone knows there is shooting going on, but only in the
neighborhood of Giloh.
In Giloh, everyone knows that it is dangerous, but only on Ha'anafa
Street.
On Ha'anafa Street, everyone knows that it is dangerous, but not all
along the street, just in the houses that face Beit Jalla.
In the houses facing Beit Jalla, everyone knows it is dangerous, but
mostly in a few apartments on specific floors that get shot at,
occasionally.
In the apartments that get shot at, they know it is dangerous, but not
in all the rooms, just in the kitchen. In the bedrooms and bathrooms,
for instance, it is totally safe.
In the kitchen that gets shot into, they know it is really dangerous,
but not in the entire kitchen, just near the fridge and toaster.
Those near the fridge know that where it is really dangerous is in the
freezer, which is directly in the sights of the sharpshooter from Beit
Jalla. You can take milk and cheese out of the fridge part without
getting hit . . . usually. Word-of-honor.
And, in the freezer over the fridge part of the refrigerator, on one
part of Ha'anafa Street, at the edge of Giloh, in Jerusalem, in Israel??
Oh boy, it is dangerous there! If you stand there and get some frozen
schnitzels out of the freezer, you're taking your life in your hands!
So . . . for a few months, just until things calm down, we're not going
to use the freezer.
Nu [So]? This you call dangerous?
Letter from Jerry Falwell,
National Liberty Journal
January 10, 2001
I returned January 10 from leading my 32nd tour to Israel over the past
30 years. Contrary to CNN daily reports and U.S. State Department
warnings, our large group safely toured all the usual Christian sites in
Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Qumran, Tiberias, the Sea of Galilee, Caesarea,
Jaffa, Megiddo, Mt. Carmel, Calvary, the Empty Tomb, the Upper Room, Mt.
Zion, and much more.
This is an excellent time to visit Israel. Sadly, tourism from America
is almost non-existent in Israel. There are virtually no American tour
groups due to unfounded fears about alleged unsafe conditions. We found
it to be absolutely safe. It is also a good time for evangelical
Christians to show their support for Israel.
I met with former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Jerusalem Mayor
Ehud Olmert, Israeli patriot Natan Sharansky,
Jerusalem Post
publisher and CEO Tom Rose, and other national leaders. In unison, they
expressed great appreciation for the unswerving support of American
evangelicals.
Visit Zola's web site (www.levitt.com) for
information about tours to Israel
and to find out how you can "bless Abraham" and show support for
Israel at the same time.
Dear Zola and staff,
My sister and I watched your program on FOX this past Monday, Jan 22. I
have to tell you that we both not only wholeheartedly agree with you,
but you said exactly what we have been saying and feeling for years, and
especially since last fall. Yes, you were passionate about the subject,
but SOMEONE needs to be! We have been following the news stories since
last fall on the news channels and over the Internet, and have become
very frustrated and angry over the misinformation campaign directed at
Israel. But we also keep up with the
Jerusalem Post,
WorldNet Daily,
CAMERA,
the International Christian Embassy, Hal Lindsey's site and,
of course, Zola's site where we are kept informed of
the REAL story. We have shared a pile of printed material from those
sites with both friends and family with mixed results. People will
believe whatever they choose to believe and whatever is politically
correct at the moment. As Christians, we prefer to believe the Word that
says, "I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you."
We have visited Israel recently and hope to go back soon. Israel is a
very beautiful and special place because the Jews have returned and
their love for the land shows clearly in the way they have brought it
back to life from the wasteland that it was not so long ago. Keep up the
good work, Zola! You are needed!!!
Shalom, KB & KG
Dear Zola and staff,
Shalom! I am writing back a reply to your letter in regular mail by
e-mail. I want to give my opinion. I think Zola MUST be bold for the
Lord and he is right on target! I say: "Go get 'em, Zola!" Yes, Zola was
strong, but truth IS. And it is sharper than any two-edged sword. I
loved that show and am greatly looking forward to more. Also greatly
looking forward to The Rabbi's Friends TV series, which is to
come next. I am selfishly hoping some of us pilgrims that were on Zola's
September 2000 tour will be in the video footage. Regardless of whether
we are on TV or not, I will dearly love seeing Israel again, if only
vicariously for now. I loved seeing our Red Bus driver, David Miney, in
a brief clip as Zola was showing footage of Jerusalem in December 2000.
I received recent e-mail from our guide, Zvi Rivai, and a regular mailed
letter from Israel from another guide, Joni Arden. I was so thrilled to
hear from her. It was so uplifting to read her letter. Zvi is still
"just Zvi" and is glad to have supporters from the USA, whether it is
tangible support or just emotional support. Joni expressed the same. So
again I say, "Go get 'em, Zola!" And I am Sha'alu shalom
yerushalayim! Thanks for all of the staff at Zola Levitt Ministries!
You are God's shining lights. Keep up the wonderful work.
In Christ's love, BDM
P.S. I continue to count on Zola giving us the truth about
Israel, as always. Another viewer expressed the view that
I also hold: Zola is about the only source of truth in
reporting on Israel out there. Thank you!
Zola,
As a regular watcher, and a friend of Israel, there are only two (2)
places that I get my news about Israel: you and the
Jerusalem Post.
You give me the Biblical perspective on Israel, and the
Jerusalem Post
gives me the secular news from Israel. There is only one show on
television that tells the Truth about what is going on in Israel. Don't
think that you should tone it down, to do so would be giving in to
political correctness, and I don't see you doing that. People need to be
told the truth, not made-up stories. It angers me that people have
criticized you and what you have been saying and how you say it. I will
continue to support you and the ministry and I am behind you 100%.
Yours in Christ, WM & NM
Hi, Zola!
I've been watching your show for a few years now. The Lord laid Israel
on my heart even before I became a Christian. I had many Jewish friends.
Anyway, I am so happy about your ministry; it's so essential to know the
Jewish roots of our faith. I look forward to learning so much more! May
the Lord continue to bless all you do! I was wondering why the media
distorts what is going on in Israel so much? Thanks for all your hard
work!
MS
Zola,
I watched your show on Jan 19, 2001, at about 9:30 PM central time, and
I could not help but agree with your comments on how the media, and even
some Christian organizations, distort the truth about Israel and the
PLO. You mentioned the importance of knowing prophecy and added that
many modern theological seminaries do not even teach it. I am a recent
college graduate and am called to the ministry. I was planning on
attending Dallas Theological Seminary; however, when you made your
comment, I verified it with the catalog that the seminary sent me. I
found only one class dedicated to prophecy: Eschatology. I realize now
that, as a future minister of God's Word, I need to know more about what
over a third of the Bible deals with. Please, send me a suggestion
concerning a seminary, rooted deeply in the truth that the Bible is
without error, whose teaching in prophecy is firm and substantial.
Thanks, Zola. May our God bring peace to Israel forever. Christ bless
you.
Andy
Dear Andy —
Anyone interested in prophecy, and I don't know what Christian wouldn't
be in a time like this, shouldn't waste his time at a seminary that
doesn't teach it. That includes Moody Bible Institute, Talbot, Biola
and, unfortunately, most of the rest of our seminaries. We have
previously given a short list of acceptable seminaries and we always
print the letters of deans and so forth that contact us to defend their
schools. Dr. Falwell's Liberty University is actually better on prophecy
than any of our so-called "mainline" evangelical seminaries these days.
Our "short list" is on the way to you under separate cover. Thanks for
writing.
— Zola
Zola,
I was extremely blessed by the information contained in the letter . . .
and saddened by the apparent lack of support from Gentile congregations.
Thank you especially for enumerating the blessings this world has
received and is now receiving from the dear Jewish people. As one
grafted in to be a child of father Abraham through faith in the Lord
Jesus, I have longed to see emphasis given to the immense and uniquely
overwhelming amount of the medical, scientific, cultural and
humanitarian contributions which God is fulfilling of His promise to
bless all the nations through the people of Israel. Without them we
would not know of God or His indescribable gift — our Savior,
Messiah! God bless you and your staff. If it were within my economic
means, I certainly would be eager to tour Israel with you.
ELT
Dear ELT —
A trip to Israel probably is within your economic means.
Please see our article,
"A 'New Jerusalem,'"
on page 3, concerning the new Israel theme park in Orlando and
our upcoming tour of it. Thanks for your blessings on
our ministry and on the Jewish people.
— Zola
Dear Zola,
You asked for our vote in response to your letter about your recent
program dealing with the situation in Israel (we saw it on INSP on
Friday, January 19, at 9 p.m.). We say "Go for it!" We thought the
program was very well done. Knowing of your passion for Israel — as
we've learned from watching your program — who better to speak up
and speak out??!!
We were surprised to learn that some stations refused to air the program
but, then again, guess this is happening more often lately than the
general public realizes. You should have as much right to speak your
opinion as the other media do when they bash the Israeli government and
people. We don't subscribe to any major newspaper or to cable TV. We get
enough of the "other-sided opinions" on regular network station
newscasts. So, we're pleased to get your perspective, and — since
you asked — whole-heartedly endorse your approach for airing your
frustrations in this way once in a while.
Thank you, as always, for your program and the Levitt Letter ...
and the book Satan in the Sanctuary — we look forward to
reading it. We'll keep watching!
— Sincerely, A & J.M
Dear Zola,
My contribution will be minimal, but I consider it an honor and
privilege to support my Savior's chosen. Hope in some way this will
help. Since my request for the Levitt Letter you have faithfully
mailed it to me without a request for any contribution. I am so
appreciative.
Three years ago I had the opportunity to visit the Holy Land. This was a
dream come true. While the people at home were getting reports of
trouble that was escalating dangerously, we were comfortably traveling
about visiting the chosen land of our precious Savior, enjoying every
minute. Never once did we feel threatened or have any fear. As a matter
of fact, when we arrived home to learn of the deep concern for our
safety we couldn't believe it. (I can now understand your concern about
the news media reporting.)
My advice to those wishing to make the trip: don't let the news media
destroy an opportunity of a lifetime. There is no danger. Etched in my
mind forever will be that beautiful land and all the wonders that I
witnessed during Christ's time on earth. I would go back in a heartbeat.
Just an old "Granny" who felt she had a closer walk with Him.
Sincerely, RH
P.S. I watch you every Monday at 8:00 a.m. on TBN.
Zola,
Sprague
would still like to receive your newsletter. At
the end of October, he moved to a nursing home. He
took $10 out of his patient fund and hopes it is enough
to cover the cost of another year of newsletters. He is
still extremely sharp at 102, and your newsletter is his
favorite one to receive. Thank you.
Dear Sprague,
Our newsletters are free, but in appreciation of your
thoughtfulness we are enclosing double the value of your
gift in teaching materials. You have inspired us to undertake
this new policy for donors over 100 years old!
— Zola
Dear Zola,
My name is CC and I am 14 years old. A few days ago I was reading my
history assignment on the formation of Isreal. It stated that as a
result of the first Arab-Isreali war 900,000 Palestinians were forced to
become refugees and settle in refugee camps. My book also said, "Hatred
between Isrealis and Palestinians deepened as Jewish settlers set up
communities on the West Bank. The Palestinians saw the Jewish
settlements as part of a long range plan to drive them off their land."
It also said that Palestinian youths began rioting because, "Although
PLO leader Yassir Arafat had begun to take a more moderate stand toward
Isreal, younger Palestinians were tired of waiting for change."
My mom said that she didn't think we were getting the whole story and
that I should write to you. Therefore I am writing to you for more
information on the Palestinians and Yassir Arafat. I would appreciate
this very much.
Very Sincerely, CC
Dear CC,
As I told you by phone, your textbook is too "politically correct." All
of Israel is Jewish land, as God promised. I was surprised when you told
me you were home schooled, because those textbooks are usually accurate.
But really, CC, "no man seeketh after God" and His Promised Land is a
big part of Him. Hope you're feeling better, by the way, and thanks for
writing.
— Zola
Dear Zola,
Why are the Israelis slaughtering the Palestinians? True
ownership of the land belongs to God Almighty! The
Palestinians were there living — you can't just gun them
out. More of us Christians are behind the poor Palestinians.
There needs to be a Palestinian State, independent
of Israeli rule.
You make such a big deal about killing and yet history is
being rewritten because Israelis are killing Palestinians.
The Germans thought the Jews were subhuman and the
Jews think the Palestinians are subhuman. Where is the
lesson learned?
Help to fight anti-Semitism and help to fight hatred
against a people who deserve to live side by side [with]
the Jews. The neo-Nazis were and are evil but so are certain
Zionists who destroy to gain. As long as we are alive
our ministry promises to help fight anti-Semitism and
protect the Palestinians. We must help both causes, neither
alone are enough.
Please help bring peace to that complex issue. We believe
the anti-Semitism found in today's pulpits (that you are
so worried about) is brought on because the Israelis kill
and destroy human life to prosper — like red ants.
Hope your health has improved.
M
Dear M —
Thanks for your good wishes about my health. As far as your own health
is concerned, if I worshipped a God whose Word to the Jewish people is
"I will curse them that curse thee," personally I wouldn't refer to them
as "red ants." There are many untrue statements in your letter, so let
me just say that the vast majority of true believers support the
Israelis. I don't think it is possible to fight anti-Semitism and to
protect the Palestinians — who are at this moment, perhaps, the
world's most anti-Semitic people. My serious answer to your letter would
be to suggest that you look deeply into your heart about your problem
with the Chosen People, lack of Bible knowledge and the truth of events
in Israel.
— Zola
Dear Sir:
I am baffled by your plan of Jews returning to Israel. This is man's
interpretation of Scriptures. Man's plans are often different than God's
plans.
How can Israel absorb and sustain all these people? How can all these
extra Jews have jobs, housing, schools, etc. They are shipping in more
people from all over the world ( Jews, that is). Wow — no wonder
there is unrest — it must be "bursting at the seams." Will U.S.
Jews eventually return to Israel also?
Why not share your love and welcome to all fellowmen regardless of
"labels." In other words — you talk about "anti-Semitism" —
what about your "anti-Palestinian-ism?" God will be the final judge.
When Abraham gazed up at the sky, seeing the stars as being his
descendents — some perhaps come from Ishmael and are Islamic. In
the "great beyond" at the last trumpet call, I believe they will be
there too — so we may as well learn to live with them here on
earth. In reality this eruption in Israel is an "anti-Islamic thrust."
Why not share the Mount — we share the same God! It is a faith
thing and we must share our faith in God. Some have different
interpretations but we all are God's children. I, as a Christian,
believe in Jesus, the Christ, but I can't thumb my nose at others. They
are His creation too. The way we "act" who would want to be a Jew or
Christian??? God must be shaking his head in dismay.
Let love of fellowman (which comes from God) reign and God will smile
upon humanity — and we will smile in eternity.
I pray that the Holy Spirit will work mightily in the hearts of Prime
Minister Ehud Barak and his people and Palestinian leader Yassir Arafat
and his people as well as those trying to assist them.
Sincerely, LL
Dear LL —
The plan of Jews returning to Israel is not my plan, but I do work for
the God who made that plan (Deuteronomy 30:1-5; Ezekiel 37:11-14; and
innumerable others). As far as being "anti-Palestinian," I'm not
precisely against Palestinians, but rather against the murderer and his
henchmen who have control of them. Think about the Iraqis; we don't even
know them but we do know that we dislike Saddam Hussein. It is strictly
because of his rule that all the bloodshed, privation and things that
bring suffering to the people are going on in Iraq. Likewise, it is
because of Arafat and his gangster government that the Palestinians are
poor, needy, and consequently belligerent. To tell the truth, I seldom
meet an Israeli who "hates" the Palestinians. Again, when we hear of
gang fighting we don't dislike each individual kid in the gang or their
families, but we are appalled that they have formed a gang and are doing
what gangs do. To clear up another misunderstanding, the passage about
Abraham seeing the stars is in reference to his Jewish descendants; none
of them are Islamic. Further, the god of the Moslems is not the same God
that Jews and Christians worship. I hope you're less baffled now.
— Zola
A handwritten note from a grateful young reader.
Thank you, Reva. — Zola
Return to Index
Editorial
What is the Olive Tree?
By Thomas S. McCall, Th.D.
The Olive Tree of Romans 11 has been an enigma to many Bible
interpreters throughout the centuries of the Church Age:
. . . if the root be holy, so are the branches. 17 And if
some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree,
wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and
fatness of the olive tree; 18 Boast not against the branches. But
if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. 19
Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be
graffed in. 20 Well; because of unbelief they were broken off,
and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: 21 For
if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not
thee. 22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on
them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue
in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. 23 And
they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for
God is able to graff them in again. 24 For if thou wert cut out
of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to
nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the
natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree? (Romans
11:16b-24)
Most amillennial commentaries have jumped to the conclusion that the
Olive Tree is the Church, beginning in Old Testament times and
continuing on to the present in its current form. Thus, the Church
becomes the New Improved Israel, and the Jewish people are relegated to
the dustbin of history as an out-moded, irrelevant part of God's plan,
sort of like an appendix — a vestigial organ. With this type of
thinking, replacement theology was born and continues as the dominant
teaching of the vast majority of Church scholars.
At the other extreme, some more recent interpreters have suggested that
the Olive Tree is Israel, the Jewish people, and that Gentile believers,
through their being grafted in, have become Israelites, now have a
"Jewish heart," and should be considered themselves as Jews. While this
interpretation may lie closer to the truth than the replacement theology
noted above, it too seems to fall short of what the Apostle Paul,
inspired by the Spirit, is endeavoring to teach us.
The Olive Tree is Not the Church
It should be understood that the Olive Tree is not the Church. Some
people are born naturally into the Olive Tree, but no one is born
physically into the Church, the Body of Christ. The only way one can
enter into the Body of Christ is by being born again by personal
faith in the Lord Jesus. Furthermore, it is clear from the New Testament
that the Church began at the celebration of the Feast of Pentecost about
33 AD, when the believers were baptized into the Body of Christ, not in
the Old Testament! The Olive Tree, which began with Abraham, Isaac and
Jacob, the fathers, cannot be identical with the Church.
The Olive Tree is Not Israel
Also, the Olive Tree cannot be Israel. Some natural branches are broken
off the Olive Tree, representing Jews who do not believe in Jesus the
Messiah, even though they are physically still alive. They are
physically alive but are spiritually dead, broken off branches. However,
no one can be broken off of Israel, as long as he is physically alive.
The often-heard dictum, "I was born a Jew and I will die a Jew," is an
accurate saying. Once a person is born into the covenant nation of
Israel, he remains within it until physically dead.
The Olive Tree is the Spiritual Commonwealth of Israel
If the Olive Tree is not the Church and it is not Israel, what is it? My
conviction is that it is what Paul elsewhere refers to as the
Commonwealth of Israel, and that the Olive Tree is none other than the
Spiritual Commonwealth of Israel.
11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the
flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the
Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 That at that time ye
were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and
strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God
in the world: 13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were
far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. (Eph. 2:11-13)
The Olive Tree is Spiritual, Composed of Righteous, Born-Again People
The word the Apostle uses for commonwealth is politeiva
(politeias), akin to the English words politics, peoplehood or
nationhood. Through the blood of Israel's Messiah (Christ), we Gentiles
who were once aliens, have been made nigh (near) to the
Commonwealth of Israel, but not identical to it. Thus we have the figure
of the Olive Tree, which I suggest is the Spiritual Commonwealth of
Israel. It is spiritual, because only righteous, born-again,
blood-bought believers are in the Olive Tree, whether Jews or Gentiles.
It pertains to Israel, because the root is the fathers of Israel
— Abraham, Isaac and Jacob — and the natural branches are
Messianic Jews, who remain in the Olive Tree by virtue of their faith in
Yeshua, the Christ.
The Olive Tree is a Commonwealth, with Allegiance to the King of the Jews
Furthermore, the Olive Tree is the Commonwealth of Israel,
because Gentiles who have been attached (grafted in) to the Olive Tree
owe allegiance to Israel's Book (the Bible), Israel's God, and Israel's
Messiah. It is similar to the British Commonwealth, in which the people
of Canada and Australia are not actually citizens of England, but owe
allegiance to the Queen, and have a special relationship with the
British people. We Gentiles who have trusted in Jesus the Messiah have a
special relationship with Israel, its people and Land, and have sworn
allegiance to the King of the Jews.
Gentile Believers have a Special Relationship with Jewish Believers
In addition to our special relationship to Israel, we Gentiles who have
been grafted in to the Olive Tree by faith in Christ among the
natural branches, have a special relationship to the Jewish
believers in Christ, who are the natural branches. The tragedy is that
the two kinds of branches in the Olive Tree (Jewish and Gentile
believers in Christ) have such a hard time worshipping our Lord
together. What a powerful testimony we would have to the unsaved world
if we could find a way to be seated together in earthly places, as we
have been positionally "seated together in heavenly places."
Return to Index
Editorial
Tears from France
In a punitive action against Israel, Paris has banned shipments of
tear-gas grenades and launchers to Israel. France's CIEMG state arms
export licensing agency requested the ban. Israeli officials said that
France was using "doublespeak" to urge Tel Aviv not to use deadly force
while refusing to sell the Israelis non-lethal weapons. The French
models are preferred over others, because they allow IDF soldiers to
remain out of range of stone-throwing Palestinians. France has
traditionally been sympathetic to the Palestinians, and Zola deems it
the most anti-Semitic country he has ever visited.
Return to Index
Editorial
Globes with Palestine
Wal-Mart sells a world globe that identifies the State of Israel, with
Jerusalem as its capital. But in a curious twist of the half-century
threat against Israel, it has something called "Palestine" floating in
the sea. Above "Israel" and below "Lebanon" to the north, the word
"Palestine" inexplicably appears on the globe, in the Mediterranean,
without dots or demarcation. Should it say Palestine? Clearly there is
no entity today called by that name. Tell 'em at Wal-Mart.
Return to Index
Editorial
News Media "Priorities"
By Zola Levitt
Here is another perfect example of the upside-down way our news media
prioritizes the news from Israel, a situation that is probably true in
your town too.
In a terrorist attack in Israel on Valentine's Day, a Palestinian bus
driver plowed into a crowded bus stop, killing seven IDF soldiers and
one civilian, and wounding 23 others. The Dallas Morning News
buried that news item of Palestinian violence on page 15. It shared
hideaway space with an advertisement for Macys' white sale. On a day,
however, when a mere scuffling match broke out between Israeli Jews (the
Orthodox and seculars), the Dallas Morning News gave that story
priority front-page positioning, so worthy of public notice that they
threw in a full-color one-third page photograph capturing the scene!
There were no casualties.
It's pretty obvious that bad-mouthing Israel is far more important than
criticizing Palestinians for continued violence. The Dallas Morning
News is a small, squeaky voice joining in with the likes of the
New York Times, the Washington Post, CNN, etc., to
continually trash our lone sister democracy in the Middle East.
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