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As I await some more details on the cost of the (Lord willing) trip to Israel in 2023, I have been thinking of why I would wish every born-again Christian to go on this trip. Here are just a few reasons:
1. Context. The Gospel of Mark (I bring that book up since we have been studying it), and, for that matter, all the books in the Bible, is filled with references to historical real places. The revelation of God’s Word didn’t happen in a vacuum. It comes with the context of people, places and things. As we study the Scripture, God uses that context to show us the extent of His glory. Seeing the places from which Biblical truth comes to us allows our study to become more vibrant and helpful. All our senses are alive during a tour of Israel. Our memories will be flooded with the events and places when we study them in the Scripture.
2. God’s Past Faithfulness. Knowing that we have a God that never changes (in other words, He’s immutable), we can rest assured on the character of God and His faithfulness in the past, His complete sufficiency for the present, and with an expectant hope for the future. In examining Israel, you can’t help but come away with this truth. As you go the Sea of Galilee and ride in a boat on it yourself, a flood of narratives come to your mind, if you are a believer in Christ. Jesus, walking on water. Jesus calming the sea. Jesus, teaching in a cove in a boat. Jesus, casting demons into swine. All these things you will envision as you read those passages. It will truly bless your soul.
3. God’s Future Coming. You have heard the adage, “The proof is in the pudding.” Such is the case for those who visit Israel. Knowing what has happened in the past helps you to prepare your soul for the expected coming of Christ. It causes you to study even more and prepare yourself for that event. It causes you to be increasingly fervent in your evangelism.
Therefore, start saving your shekels! Pray about this opportunity for you and your family. More information will be coming; in the meantime, save and pray.
2 Peter 1:16–21, "For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, such an utterance as this was made to Him by the Majestic Glory, ‘This is My beloved Son with whom I am well-pleased’— and we ourselves heard this utterance made from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain. So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts. But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.”
Ask your Pastor about this (Lord willing) trip to Israel in 2023! You will be blessed.
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