Israel’s Return to the Land — What Does G-d Expect?

 

How Should Israel Treat Those in the Land Today? A Biblical Look at Return, Neighbors, and Covenant Ethics

When Scripture speaks about Israel returning to the Promised Land, it never frames the issue in political terms. It frames it in covenant terms — G-d’s character, G-d’s promises, and G-d’s expectations for how His people treat others.

To understand how Israel is to treat those who live in the land now, we must look at the three biblical eras of return, because each one gives a different kind of instruction.

1. The First Entry Under Joshua — A Unique Moment in History

The conquest under Joshua was a one‑time, unrepeatable event. G-d used Israel as an instrument of judgment on nations whose practices included child sacrifice, ritual prostitution, and violence.

This was not:

• a model for future generations

• a permanent policy

• or a pattern for how Israel should treat neighbors

After Joshua, G-d never again commanded Israel to conquer the land by force.

This means modern returns cannot be interpreted through Joshua’s lens.

2. The Return From Exile (Ezra–Nehemiah) — The Real Model for Today

When Israel returned from Babylon, the land was:

• mixed

• populated

• politically controlled by foreign powers

• filled with people who had moved in during Israel’s absence

How did G-d tell Israel to treat them?

✔️ With peace

There is no command to expel or harm the inhabitants.

✔️ With justice

The prophets condemn oppression of foreigners more than almost any other sin.

✔️ With integrity

Israel was to rebuild its own worship and identity, not dominate others.

✔️ With spiritual distinction, not hostility

They were to remain faithful to G-d, not blend into idolatry.

This era shows the pattern:

Returning to the land does not mean removing everyone else. It means re‑establishing covenant life under G-d.

3. The Prophetic Future Return — G-d’s Vision for Israel and the Nations

The prophets describe a future gathering of Israel from the nations. How are they to treat others living in the land?

✔️ With justice and fairness

“Do what is just and right.” — Ezekiel 45:9 (Yechezkel 45:9 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

✔️ With shared inheritance

Ezekiel 47:22 (Yechezkel 47:22 Orthodox Jewish Bible) says foreigners living among Israel are to receive an inheritance as native‑born Israelites.

This is astonishing. It means:

• the land belongs to Israel by covenant

• but others may live there with full rights

• Israel must treat them as equals

✔️ With peace toward neighbors

Isaiah 2 (Yeshayah 2 Orthodox Jewish Bible) and Micah 4 (Michoh 4Orthodox Jewish Bible)

describe nations coming to Jerusalem to learn G-d’s ways.

✔️ With hospitality

“Love the foreigner as yourself.” — Leviticus 19:34 (Vayikra 19:34 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

This command is repeated more than almost any other.

✔️ With blessing, not hostility

Zechariah 8:23 (Zecharyah 8:23 Orthodox Jewish Bible) pictures nations grabbing hold of a Jew and saying, “We want to go with you, for G-d is with you.”

The prophetic vision is not domination — it is mutual blessing.

So How Should Israel Treat Those in the Land Today?

If we follow the biblical pattern — not modern politics — the answer is clear.

1. With justice

No oppression, no exploitation, no mistreatment.

2. With peace

Israel is repeatedly commanded to seek peace with neighbors.

3. With hospitality

Foreigners are to be loved “as yourself.”

4. With covenant identity

Israel must remain faithful to G-d, not blend into idolatry.

5. With shared blessing

The land is Israel’s inheritance, but the blessing of the land is meant to overflow to others.

In One Sentence

Israel’s return to the land is covenantal, not militaristic — they are to treat current inhabitants and neighbors with justice, peace, hospitality, and integrity, reflecting G-d’s heart for the nations.

Can Israel Lose the Promised Land? Understanding G-d’s Covenant

 

Can Israel Lose the Promised Land? Understanding G-d’s Covenant

The Promised Land is one of the most important themes in Scripture. It’s more than geography — it’s a revelation of God’s faithfulness, His covenant love, and His unfolding plan of redemption. But a question often arises: Can Israel lose the land God promised them?

The Bible gives a clear and beautiful answer, and it’s found in understanding the difference between ownership and enjoyment of the land.

The Promised Land: A Covenant Gift

From the very beginning, G-d promised Abraham a land for his descendants:

• “To your offspring I will give this land.” — Genesis 12:7 (Bereshis 12:7Orthodox Jewish Bible)

• “I will give… the whole land of Canaan as an everlasting possession.” — Genesis 17:8 (Bereshis 17:8 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

This promise is rooted in G-d’s character, not Israel’s performance. It is:

• a gift,

• an inheritance,

• and an everlasting covenant.

The land is part of G-d’s redemptive plan — a stage on which His faithfulness is displayed.

Can Israel Lose the Promised Land?

The biblical answer is both yes and no, depending on what you mean.

1. Israel Cannot Lose Ownership of the Land

G-d’s covenant with Abraham is unconditional. He swore by Himself (Genesis 15) (Bereshis 15 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

, meaning the promise does not depend on human faithfulness.

Israel’s right to the land is permanent because G-d declared it “everlasting.”

2. Israel Can Lose Enjoyment of the Land

While ownership is unconditional, dwelling securely in the land is conditional.

God warned Israel:

• Obedience brings blessing (Leviticus 26) ( Vayikra 26 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

• Disobedience brings exile (Deuteronomy 28–30) (Devarim 28-30 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

• Turning to other gods leads to removal from the land (Joshua 23:16) (Yehoshua 23:16 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

And history shows this clearly:

• The northern kingdom was exiled to Assyria.

• Judah was exiled to Babylon.

They didn’t lose the covenant — they lost the experience of the promise for a time.

Exile Is Discipline, Not Rejection

Even in judgment, G-d promised restoration:

• “Even if you are banished to the ends of the earth… I will gather you.” — Deuteronomy 30:4 (Devarim 30:4 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

• “I will plant them in their land, never again to be uprooted.” — Amos 9:15 (Amos 9:15 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

This reveals G-d’s heart:

• Exile is correction, not abandonment.

• Restoration is guaranteed.

• The covenant remains intact.

God always brings His people home.

The Promised Land as a Spiritual Picture

The land is also a symbol of:

• rest (Hebrews 4) (Yehudim in Moshiach 4 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

• inheritance,

• life under G-d’s rule,

• and the fullness of His promises.

Just as Israel could be in the land but not enjoy its blessings, believers can be saved yet not walk in the fullness of G-d’s rest.

The physical promise points to a deeper spiritual reality fulfilled in Christ and ultimately in His kingdom.

Summary: Can Israel Lose the Land?

Aspect	Can Israel Lose It?	Why
Ownership	❌ No	G-d’s covenant with Abraham is everlasting
Possession / Enjoyment	✅ Yes	Disobedience brings exile
Ultimate Restoration	❌ No	G-d always restores His people

G-d’s promises stand. His covenant remains. And His faithfulness endures through every generation.

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I was thinking about some things that I believe might affect some Israelites’ inheritance to the promised land.

Most Jews still do not believe that Yeshua (Jesus) is the Messiah. They are still waiting for another, still searching for the One who has already come. This is no small matter. Yeshua is the Son of G-d, sent into the world to take away the sins of humanity. His suffering, His crucifixion, His blood—this was the price paid for our redemption (John 18–19) (Yochanan 18-19 Orthodox Jewish Bible). To reject Him is to turn away from the very atonement G-d Himself provided. Only G-d knows the weight of such a refusal, but Scripture makes it clear that it grieves His heart.

Yeshua told a parable that speaks directly into this reality—a prophetic word wrapped in a story.

He said that a landowner planted a vineyard, set everything in order, and entrusted it to tenants. When the season of fruit came, he sent his servants to receive what was rightfully his. But the tenants beat them, stoned them, and killed them. The landowner sent more servants, and the tenants did the same. Finally, he sent his beloved son, saying, “Surely they will respect my son.” But the tenants seized him, cast him out, and killed him, thinking they could claim the inheritance for themselves (Matthew 21:33–46 (Mattityahu 21:33-46 Orthodox Jewish Bible): Mark 12:1–12 (Markos 12:1-12 Orthodox Jewish Bible): Luke 20:9–19) (Lukas 20:9-19 Orthodox Jewish Bible).

This was not just a story. It was a divine indictment.

The landowner is G-d. The vineyard is Israel. The tenants are the leaders entrusted with G-d’s covenant land. The servants are the prophets sent again and again. And the Son—the One they rejected—is Yeshua.

The message is unmistakable: Those who reject the Son place themselves outside the inheritance of the Son.

In the parable, the landowner removes the unfaithful tenants and gives the vineyard to others who will bear its fruit. This does not cancel G-d’s covenant with Abraham—His promises remain. But it does reveal a sobering truth: the enjoyment of the land, the blessing of the covenant, and the honor of stewardship are tied to recognizing the rightful Heir.

The land is G-d’s. The inheritance is G-d’s. And the Son is the One through whom every promise is fulfilled.

Becoming Like Little Children to Enter the Kingdom

 

Becoming Like Little Children to Enter the Kingdom

Matthew 18:3 (NIV) (Mattityahu 18:3 Orthodox Jewish Bible): “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”

Matthew 18:4 (NKJV) (Mattityahu 18:4 Orthodox Jewish Bible): “Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”

Mark 10:15 (NASB) (Markos 10:15 Orthodox Jewish Bible): “Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.”

Luke 18:17 (NIV) (Lukas 18:17 Orthodox Jewish Bible): “Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

I also like looking at what the book of John says. I explain why in my post, “Why the Gospel of John Is Essential to Study.”

John’s Perspective on Entering the Kingdom

John mentions the “kingdom of God” explicitly only twice, both in Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus:

John 3:3 (Yochanan 3:3 Orthodox Jewish Bible) — You cannot see the kingdom of God unless you are born again (or “born from above”).

John 3:5 (Yochanan 3:5 Orthodox Jewish Bible) — You cannot enter the kingdom of God unless you are born of water and the Spirit.

These verses parallel the “childlike” theme in a different way:

• The Synoptic Gospels emphasize childlike humility and trust.

• John emphasizes new birth, becoming spiritually like a newborn.

So while John doesn’t use the phrase “as a child,” he does use the image of spiritual rebirth, which carries a similar idea: entering God’s kingdom requires becoming new, dependent, receptive, and transformed.

Key qualities of being “like a child” spiritually include:

• Total Dependence: Like infants who rely completely on a caregiver, we must rely entirely on God’s grace.

• Childlike Trust: A confident, unself-conscious reliance on God’s promises.

• Humility: Setting aside pride and self-sufficiency, as children had no status in Jesus’ day.

• Teachability: Remaining open, curious, and willing to be led and corrected by God.

• Innocence and Sincerity: Coming to God with honesty and purity of heart.

• Quickness to Forgive: Children often resolve conflicts quickly — a picture of kingdom forgiveness.

Why This Becomes Harder as We Grow Older

The older we get, the harder it becomes to “become like a child.” We become set in our ways and beliefs. It’s not impossible — but it isn’t as easy as it is when we’re young.

A Parallel in the Wilderness Story

This reminds me of the Israelites wandering in the desert for 40 years. If you’ve been in church, you’re probably familiar with the Exodus story.

Exodus 1–15 (Shemot 1-15 Orthodox Jewish Bible) describes Moses at the burning bush, his confrontation with Pharaoh, the ten plagues, the Passover, the departure from Egypt, the crossing of the Red Sea, and the song of Moses after their deliverance.

God was leading them to the promised land — the land flowing with milk and honey (Exodus 15–40) (Shemot 15-30 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

When they reached the border, spies went in to explore it. They found the land just as God promised, but they also saw giants. All but two believed it would be too difficult to enter.

Because of their unbelief, God led them through the desert for 40 years, caring for them the entire time. Even though they witnessed miracle after miracle, the older generation longed for Egypt. They remembered what they thought were the “better things” they had there and forgot how hard their slavery truly was. Many complained to Moses, asking why he brought them into the desert at all.

I bring this up because it mirrors the challenge of entering the kingdom of God. The older generation was conditioned by a certain way of life. They couldn’t see the blessings God was giving them. It took 40 years for that generation to pass away. The younger generation, who grew up seeing God’s provision, was ready. It was finally time to enter the land.

I won’t go into the “promised land” right now — that’s a very contentious subject — but the parallel stands.

God Is Constantly Drawing Us to Himself

 

God Is Constantly Drawing Us to Himself

There is a beautiful truth woven throughout the entire Bible: God is not distant, passive, or waiting for us to make the first move. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture reveals a God who is continually reaching, calling, inviting, and drawing people to Himself.

His heart has always been turned toward humanity. Even when we wander, He pursues. Even when we resist, He calls. Even when we fail, He draws us back with love that refuses to let go.

Let’s look at the powerful ways Scripture shows this ongoing, relentless pursuit.

🌿 Drawn by Everlasting Love

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness.” — Jeremiah 31:3

God’s drawing begins with love — not judgment, not pressure, not fear. His love is everlasting, which means His drawing is continual. He doesn’t stop reaching for us because His love doesn’t stop.

✝️ Drawn to Christ Through the Cross

Jesus made this promise:

“No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him.” — John 6:44

And again:

“And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to Myself.” — John 12:32

The cross is not just a historical event — it is a present‑tense invitation. Christ is still drawing hearts today, pulling people toward hope, forgiveness, and eternal life.

🔥 The Spirit Is Always Calling

The final chapter of the Bible ends with an open invitation:

“The Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come.’” — Revelation 22:17

This is not a one‑time call. It is the ongoing voice of God’s Spirit echoing through every generation.

Hebrews reminds us:

“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” — Hebrews 3:7–8

Today — meaning right now. God is speaking. God is calling. God is drawing.

🐑 God Seeks the Lost

Jesus described His mission this way:

“The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” — Luke 19:10

Seeking is active. It is intentional. It is ongoing.

The parables of the lost sheep, lost coin, and lost son (Luke 15) show a God who searches, watches, waits, and runs toward anyone who turns even slightly in His direction.

🌤️ God’s Goodness Leads Us Back

Paul writes:

“God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance.” — Romans 2:4

Every blessing, every moment of mercy, every breath of life is part of God’s gentle pull on the human heart.

🌎 God Reveals Himself Continually

Creation itself is a constant invitation:

“The heavens declare the glory of God… day after day they pour forth speech.” — Psalm 19:1–2

And Paul says God arranged the world so that:

“…they would seek Him… though He is not far from any one of us.” — Acts 17:27

God is always near. Always revealing. Always drawing.

✋ God Holds Out His Hands All Day Long

One of the most tender images in Scripture is this:

“All day long I have held out My hands to an obstinate people.” — Isaiah 65:2

Even toward those who resist Him, God’s posture is open, patient, and inviting.

🐑 His Sheep Hear His Voice

Jesus said:

“My sheep hear My voice… and they follow Me.” — John 10:27

Hearing implies ongoing communication. God doesn’t speak once and fall silent. He continually calls His people by name.

❤️ The Heart of God Toward You

When you put all these Scriptures together, a clear picture emerges:

• God is always reaching.

• God is always calling.

• God is always drawing.

• God is always inviting.

• God is always seeking.

His love is not occasional. His pursuit is not seasonal. His invitation is not temporary.

God’s heart is always leaning toward you.

No matter where you are in life — in joy, in fear, in doubt, in sin, in confusion — God is drawing you closer. Not to condemn you, but to heal you. Not to shame you, but to restore you. Not to burden you, but to give you life.

Can we Trust that God will protect us no matter what we are going through?

Can we trust that God will protect us no matter what we’re going through? I believe we absolutely can.

Many people are facing moments that feel uncertain and frightening. We worry about our future, our children, our neighbors, our nation, and even the world around us. But when we belong to God, we don’t face these fears alone. We stand under the care of a Father who sees, knows, and guards His own.

Think about what it truly means to be God’s children. He is our Father—steadfast, present, and unchanging. No matter how old we become or how complicated life feels, His role as our Father never shifts. And because He is our Father, His protection is not fragile or occasional; it is rooted in His character, His promises, and His love.

God’s Protection in Acts: A Foundation of Certainty

These passages don’t just show isolated miracles—they reveal a pattern of God safeguarding His people so His purpose continues. 🕊️ The Spirit as Ongoing Protection Acts 1:8 Protection through empowerment and guidance. Acts 16:6–10 — The Spirit forbids Paul from entering certain regions, protecting him through redirection. 🔓 Protection From Human Threats Acts 4:29–31 — God answers threats with boldness and presence. Acts 5:17–20— Angelic deliverance from prison. Acts 12:1–11 — Peter rescued from Herod’s execution plan. 🛡️ Protection Through Community Acts 9:23–25 — Believers lower Saul in a basket to escape a murder plot. Acts 17:10 — The brothers send Paul and Silas away by night to avoid danger. 🌩️ Protection Through Divine Intervention Acts 18:9–11 — God promises Paul: “No one will attack or harm you.” Acts 23:11 — Jesus appears to Paul: “Take courage… you must testify in Rome.” Acts 27:21–26 — An angel guarantees the safety of everyone on Paul’s ship. 🐍 Protection From Natural Danger Acts 28:3–6 — Paul survives the viper bite unharmed. These passages show a God who protects through power, presence, warning, community, angels, and even circumstances. Broader Biblical Witness: God’s Protection Is Sure 🏔️ God’s Protection in the Old Testament Psalm 91 — The most comprehensive promise of God’s protection. Psalm 121 — “The LORD will keep you from all harm.” Isaiah 41:10 — “Fear not… I will uphold you.” Isaiah 54:17 — “No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” Exodus 14:13–14 — “The LORD will fight for you.” Daniel 3 — Protection in the fire. Daniel 6 — Protection in the lions’ den. 2 Kings 6:15–17 — Angelic armies surrounding Elisha. 🕊️ God’s Protection in the Gospels John 10:28–29 — No one can snatch His sheep from His hand. Luke 10:19 — Authority over serpents and scorpions. Matthew 28:20 — “I am with you always.” ✝️ God’s Protection in the Epistles 2 Thessalonians 3:3 — “The Lord is faithful… He will guard you.” 1 Peter 1:5 — We are “shielded by God’s power.” Romans 8:31–39 — Nothing can separate us from His love. Philippians 4:7 — His peace guards our hearts and minds. What These Scriptures Reveal About God’s Protection Across the whole Bible, God protects in five consistent ways: By His presence — He is with His people in danger. By His power — He intervenes supernaturally when needed. By His wisdom — He redirects, warns, and guides. By His people — Community becomes a shield. By His promises — His word becomes a fortress. Protection is not always escape from hardship, but it is always God’s active involvement ensuring His purpose and your life remain in His hands.

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Jeremiah 9:23-24 New American Standard Bible 23 This is what the Lord says: “Let no wise man boast of his wisdom, nor let the mighty man boast of his might, nor a rich man boast of his riches; 24 but let the one who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises mercy, justice, and righteousness on the earth; for I delight in these things,” declares the Lord.

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