Supersessionism is the belief that the church has replaced Israel in God’s plan, and that the promises made to Israel in the Old Testament now apply only to the church. This doctrine has historically contributed to antisemitism, both within the church and in broader society. Scripture, however, does not support supersessionism and clearly affirms God’s ongoing covenantal relationship with Israel. 1. Supersessionism’s Role in Antisemitism •Theological Antisemitism: By teaching that God has rejected Israel, supersessionism fosters a negative view of the Jewish people as being “cursed” or no longer loved by God. •Historical Consequences: Throughout history, supersessionism has been used to justify actions like the Inquisition, pogroms, and other forms of antisemitic violence. 2. Scripture Refutes Supersessionism A. God’s Covenant with Israel is Eternal •Genesis 17:7-8: “I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you.” •God’s covenant with Abraham and his descendants (the Jewish people) is described as everlasting, meaning it cannot be revoked or replaced. •Jeremiah 31:35-37: God promises that Israel will endure as long as the sun, moon, and stars exist. •This passage affirms that God’s relationship with Israel is as unchanging as the natural order. B. The Jewish People are Still Loved by God •Romans 11:1-2: “Has God rejected his people? By no means! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. God did not reject his people, whom he foreknew.” •Paul explicitly states that God has not rejected Israel. •Romans 11:28-29: “As far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, for God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.” •This passage emphasizes that God’s calling and promises to Israel are irrevocable. C. The Church and Israel Coexist in God’s Plan •Romans 11:17-24: Paul describes Gentiles as wild olive branches grafted into the cultivated olive tree of Israel. •This metaphor shows that Gentiles do not replace Israel but are included alongside them in God’s plan. •Ephesians 2:11-22: Through Christ, Gentiles are brought near to God and become part of His household, not as replacements for Israel but as co-heirs. D. Jesus Affirms His Jewish Identity •Matthew 5:17: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” •Jesus fulfills the promises to Israel, but this fulfillment does not nullify Israel’s place in God’s plan. •John 4:22: “Salvation is from the Jews.” 3. Supersessionism Contradicts the Church’s Call to Love •Romans 12:10: “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” •Antisemitism contradicts the church’s call to love all people, including the Jewish people. •Genesis 12:3: “I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse.” •God’s promise to bless those who support Israel warns against fostering antisemitism. 4. Conclusion: Rejecting Supersessionism Supersessionism misrepresents God’s character and plan by distorting His promises to Israel. Scripture affirms that God’s covenant with the Jewish people is eternal, His love for them remains, and the church and Israel have distinct but complementary roles in His redemptive plan. The church is called to oppose antisemitism in all its forms and to stand in solidarity with the Jewish people. Recognizing and rejecting supersessionism is essential for fostering love, humility, and unity in the body of Christ and in the world. Romans 11:18 reminds Gentile believers: “Do not consider yourself to be superior to those other branches.” Instead, the church should honor Israel’s unique place in God’s story while proclaiming the gospel to all.