Did any early church fathers affirm a distinction between Israel and the Church? 1. Justin Martyr (100–165 AD) Quote: “I said [to Trypho], ‘The Scriptures are not yours, but ours. For we believe them; but you, though you read them, do not catch the spirit that is in them. Now, to you this circumcision is not necessary, but it is necessary for you to keep the Sabbaths and feasts of God, and to offer certain offerings and sacrifices.’” (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 27) •Context: Justin recognizes that the Jewish people (Israel) still have a role in observing aspects of the Law. This implies an ongoing distinction between Israel’s practices and the Church’s faith-based approach, without nullifying Israel’s significance. 2. Irenaeus (130–202 AD) Quote: “For after the times of the kingdom, He shall cause the festival of the tabernacles to take place, for this is a type of the future kingdom… all the nations who have been saved, and those who have remained faithful to Him, shall bring forth their glory and honor into it.” (Against Heresies, Book 5, Chapter 33) •Context: Irenaeus envisions a future fulfillment of God’s promises where Israel and the nations (including the Church) play distinct roles. This points to Israel’s ongoing identity within God’s plan. 3. Hippolytus (170–235 AD) Quote: “And the twelve tribes of Israel, who have been dispersed over the whole world, shall then be gathered together from the dispersion, and, having received the Christ, the Lord whom they denied, shall rejoice, and shall receive the glory of the Lord.” (On Christ and Antichrist, Section 61) •Context: Hippolytus explicitly affirms a future for ethnic Israel, recognizing that they remain distinct from the Church but will eventually turn to Christ in fulfillment of prophecy. These quotes indicate that some early church fathers acknowledged a distinction between Israel and the Church. While they did not develop this concept as clearly as later dispensationalists, their writings often reflect a belief in Israel’s future restoration and unique role in God’s plan.