The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) published a letter detailing its support for Israel in the wake of terror attacks.
“In the wake of the evil and indefensible atrocities now committed against the people of Israel by Hamas, we, the undersigned, unequivocally condemn the violence against the vulnerable, fully support Israel’s right and duty to defend itself against further attack, and urgently call all Christians to pray for the salvation and peace of the people of Israel and Palestine,” the letter states.
“While our theological perspectives on Israel and the Church may vary, we are unified in calling attacks against Jewish people especially troubling as they have been often targeted by their neighbors since God called them as His people in the days of Abraham,” the letter continued, citing Genesis 12:1-3.
The letter was signed by 60 leaders from universities, churches, and organizations and will be sent to the White House.
“Furthermore, we recognize the dignity and personhood of all persons living in the Middle East and affirm God’s love for them as well as His offer of salvation through Jesus Christ to all people,” the letter adds.
“We also recognize the difficult ministry of Jewish and Palestinian believers who labor for the gospel. We pray for their protection and for God’s blessing on their gospel ministry.”
In a phone interview with Religion News Service, ERLC President Brent Leatherwood said, “It is time for clear-eyed thinking and moral certainty,” adding that the letter is part of the ERLC’s mission to “protect the vulnerable.”
