Daily devotion: A blessed Bible prophecy yet to be fulfilled!
God’s Promise to Israel Is Sure
Matthew 19:23–28
There is much being spoken today about the Jewish people and the nation of Israel. Sadly, we are witnessing a continual rise in anti-Jewish hatred, with hostility increasingly becoming violent. Even here in Australia, we have seen our government take positions that are increasingly hostile toward Israel. As Christians, we should be deeply concerned—not merely because of political consequences, but because God’s Word makes it abundantly clear that Israel remains significant in His purposes.
Even more concerning is the fact that some who name the name of Christ have rejected the biblical truth that Israel remains God’s chosen people. Such thinking reveals a serious ignorance of what Scripture teaches.
As I was reading through Matthew’s Gospel, I came across this glorious prophecy spoken by Jesus:
“Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”
—Matthew 19:28
What an extraordinary promise! Jesus was speaking about a future event—a time when He will sit upon the throne of His glory. His words give us tremendous insight into God’s future purposes for Israel.
Notice that Jesus speaks of “the twelve tribes of Israel.” Israel’s future is therefore not something that has disappeared from God’s plan. The twelve tribes will still have significance in the future kingdom of Christ.
Jesus also gave this promise directly to His disciples. He told them that they would have a special future ministry, sitting upon twelve thrones and judging the twelve tribes of Israel. This is a remarkable confirmation that God’s purposes for Israel remain firmly established.
No matter what Satan may seek to do, God’s purposes cannot be overturned. Nations may rise against Israel. People may seek Israel’s destruction. Governments may turn against her. Hatred and antisemitism may increase. Yet none of these things can cancel the promises of God.
God made covenant promises to Abraham and to his descendants, and God’s Word assures us that He is faithful to His promises. The continued existence of Israel is itself a remarkable testimony to the faithfulness of God.
This should cause us to pause and consider something very important: If God is faithful to His promises concerning Israel, then we can be absolutely confident that every promise He has made to us in Christ is also sure.
Our confidence does not rest upon circumstances, governments, world events, or human faithfulness. Our confidence rests upon the character of God.
Numbers 23:19 declares:
“God is not a man, that He should lie.”
What a wonderful truth!
God does not change His mind because circumstances change. He does not abandon His promises because people are unfaithful. What God has spoken, He will accomplish.
So when we look at Israel, let us not simply see another nation caught up in the turmoil of the Middle East. Let us remember that Israel is deeply connected to the unfolding purposes of God recorded throughout Scripture.
And as we watch the world changing around us, let Israel’s future remind us of something precious: God keeps His promises.
The same God who promised a future for Israel has promised salvation to those who place their faith in Jesus Christ. He has promised never to leave or forsake His children. He has promised that Christ will return. He has promised eternal life to those who believe.
Therefore, Christian, stand firm.
God’s promises are sure. His Word is true. His purposes cannot fail.
We can trust Him completely—not only with Israel’s future, but with our own.
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” — Matthew 24:35