To the Christians,
from A Fellow American - Are You Truly Following Christ - or deceived by Satan? -
A Call to Reflect and Repent
Introduction: The Timeless Teachings of Jesus
Imagine sitting down with Jesus of Nazareth and asking him what he thinks about our modern world. The issues we grapple with today—violence, oppression, economic injustice—aren't so different from those he addressed in his time. Let’s explore how his teachings might apply to the events and challenges we face today, especially in light of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, systemic racism, economic exploitation, and perspectives from some respected American historical figures and patriots.
Jump to: Current War Crimes and Biblical Perspectives
The Word of Jesus on Oppression, Exploitation, and Hypocrisy
Jesus had a lot to say about justice and treating others with compassion. In Matthew 25:31-46, he talks about the final judgment and emphasizes the importance of caring for the least among us. He equates this care with service to himself, saying:
And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
These words hold a double meaning: every act of injustice or neglect towards the vulnerable is an act against Jesus himself. Imagine the fires of hell awaiting those who claim to follow Christ but perpetuate harm against the least of his brethren. Do you believe Jesus is the way, the truth, and the light? Then you must heed his teachings and reflect on your actions!
Jesus' message here is clear: taking care of the marginalized is paramount. This is directly relevant today, especially when we look at situations where vulnerable populations, like the Palestinians, are facing significant hardships. Reports from the UN highlight ongoing oppression in Palestinian territories, showing how these ancient teachings still resonate in the face of modern injustices. UN Report on Human Rights.
In another parable, Jesus tells the story of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31, highlighting the dire consequences of ignoring the needy:
But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
This parable underscores the moral obligation to care for the less fortunate. It resonates strongly in contexts of economic disparity and exploitation, such as the blockade of Gaza, which exacerbates poverty and suffering as noted by Amnesty International. Amnesty International - Gaza Blockade.
Jesus also denounced exploitation in Mark 12:38-40, criticizing religious leaders who “devour widows' houses” and perform acts of piety for show:
Which devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayers: these shall receive greater damnation.
This criticism of religious and political hypocrisy is relevant today, where leaders often preach morality while enacting policies that exploit and harm vulnerable populations. Transparency International's reports on corruption reveal this gap between public virtue and actual behavior. Transparency International - Corruption Perceptions Index 2021.
In Matthew 23:25-28, Jesus condemns the Pharisees for their focus on outward appearances while neglecting inner righteousness:
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
This condemnation is relevant to modern leaders who maintain a facade of morality while engaging in unjust practices. Reports by organizations like Human Rights Watch highlight the gap between rhetoric and reality in the treatment of marginalized groups. Human Rights Watch - World Report 2022.
The Notion of God’s Chosen People and Modern Zionism
Jesus broadened the concept of God’s chosen people to include all who follow his teachings, focusing on faith and righteousness rather than ethnicity or nationality. In Matthew 8:11-12 and John 10:16, he envisions a kingdom that welcomes people from all backgrounds:
And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
Jesus’ teachings challenge modern Zionist ideologies that claim exclusive rights to land based on ethnicity. His vision promotes inclusivity, contrasting with policies like the Israeli Nation-State Law, which defines Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people alone. The Guardian - Israeli Nation-State Law.
Jesus emphasized that being chosen by God involves living justly and mercifully. In Matthew 23:23 and Matthew 25:40, he underscores the importance of justice and compassion:
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
This passage bears a grave warning: any harm done to the least among us, any act of oppression or neglect, is done unto Jesus himself. The actions you justify today against those you consider “lesser” will be judged as actions against Christ. Do you truly follow Christ's teachings? If so, you must oppose such discrimination and stand for justice!
Modern Leaders’ Dehumanizing Statements
Many modern leaders have made statements that dehumanize Palestinians and other groups, reflecting attitudes that are contrary to Jesus' teachings on love and respect for all people. For example:
Itamar Ben-Gvir (Israeli Minister of National Security): “My right, and my wife’s, and my children’s to move around the [West Bank] settlements is more important than the right to movement of Arabs. Sorry, Mohammad.” (NY Times - Itamar Ben-Gvir)
Bezalel Smotrich (Finance Minister of Israel): “Palestinians should be thrown out of Israel and sent to countries like Norway and other places.” (Times of Israel - Smotrich on Expelling Arabs)
Rabbi Yitzhak Shapira (Settler Rabbi, Israel): “The killing of non-Jews is a mitzvah (good deed) according to Jewish law.” (The Guardian - Rabbi Shapira)
Ayelet Shaked (Former Justice Minister of Israel): “The entire Palestinian people is the enemy… including its elderly and its women, its cities and its villages, its property and its infrastructure.” (Times of Israel - Shaked on Palestinians)
Pat Robertson (Televangelist, USA): “Gaza should be flattened. The terrorists must be crushed, whatever it takes.” (Washington Post - Pat Robertson on Gaza)
Geert Wilders (Dutch Politician): “Islam is not a religion, it’s a totalitarian ideology, and we must stop the Islamization of our countries.” (NBC News - Geert Wilders)
Marine Le Pen (Leader of National Rally, France): “In parts of France, there are people who are not French and they don't want to be French. They want to impose Sharia law, or impose jihad.” (The Guardian - Marine Le Pen)
Donald Trump (Former President of the United States): “We have a very special relationship with Israel. We're not going anywhere. We have to protect Israel.” (NPR - Trump on Israel)
Donald Trump: “If you don’t fully side with Israel, then you are not doing the right thing.” (Washington Post - Trump on Israel)
Joe Biden (President of the United States): “There is no shift in my commitment, the commitment to the security of Israel. Period. No shift.” (Reuters - Biden on Israel Security)
Joe Biden: “If there were no Israel, the United States of America would have to invent an Israel to protect our interests in the region.” (The Guardian - Biden on Israel)
These statements reflect deep-seated animosity and a lack of empathy, which are fundamentally opposed to Jesus' teachings of love, respect, and the sanctity of all human life. Reports from human rights organizations like Human Rights Watch show how such dehumanizing rhetoric translates into policies that perpetuate inequality and conflict. Human Rights Watch - Israel and Palestine.
The Sin of Inherent Racism in Zionist Sympathy and Settler Colonialism
The Zionist settler movement and its sympathizers often display racist attitudes that dehumanize Palestinians and other non-Jewish groups. This racism is evident in the exclusionary policies and rhetoric used by many supporters. Jesus' teachings on love and equality stand in stark, unambiguous contrast and condemnation towards these ideologies.
Benjamin Netanyahu (Prime Minister of Israel): “Israel is not a state of all its citizens... Israel is the nation-state of the Jewish people – and them alone.” (NBC News - Netanyahu)
Miri Regev (Israeli Minister of Transportation): “Israel is the home of the Jewish people and not a state of all its nationalities.” (Haaretz - Miri Regev)
Ayelet Shaked (Former Justice Minister of Israel): “This is a war between two people. Who is the enemy? The Palestinian people.” (Haaretz - Ayelet Shaked)
Naftali Bennett (Former Prime Minister of Israel): “I’ve killed lots of Arabs in my life – and there’s no problem with that.” (The Guardian - Naftali Bennett)
The racism in these statements reflects a belief in the superiority of one ethnic group over another, which is fundamentally opposed to Jesus' teachings. Reports and studies by the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Palestinian territories highlight systemic racism and discrimination against Palestinians. UN Report on Apartheid. Jesus emphasizes the equality of all people and the importance of love and compassion for all, as seen in John 13:34-35 and Galatians 3:28.
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Not so easy to misinterpret or misunderstand, is it?
Jesus’ Response to Modern Zionist and Far-Right Views
Jesus’ teachings provide a powerful counter to modern Zionist and far-right views that dehumanize and marginalize others. His emphasis on love, compassion, and empathy is evident in numerous passages where he calls for treating others with kindness, regardless of their background or perceived enmity.
Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.
Jesus underscores the importance of justice and mercy, condemning those who neglect these values in favor of hypocrisy and self-righteousness. His teachings challenge the dehumanizing rhetoric and policies that perpetuate conflict and division, such as those documented by international human rights organizations. Amnesty International - Israel's Apartheid.
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
Jesus’ teachings advocate for an inclusive kingdom of God that transcends ethnic and national boundaries, emphasizing the value of every individual and the call to justice and compassion.
And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
These teachings directly counter modern nationalist and exclusionary ideologies that prioritize one group over others. Reports from entities like the United Nations highlight the ongoing impacts of such ideologies on international conflicts and human rights violations. United Nations - International Cooperation.
Jesus’ Teachings on Nationalism, Violence, and Economic Justice
Jesus critiques nationalism, violence, and economic exploitation, advocating for a society rooted in peace, justice, and compassion. He calls for an inclusive kingdom that welcomes all who follow his teachings, transcending ethnic and national divisions.
And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
Jesus’ teachings clearly promote non-violence, and call for turning the other cheek, which contrasts sharply with modern support for militarism and violence. His call to love enemies is a profound challenge to those who support conflict and warfare, as seen in contemporary conflicts where non-violent approaches are overshadowed by aggressive policies and ridiculed by false prophets. Peace Insight - Palestinian Nonviolence.
Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.
Economic justice is a key theme in Jesus’ teachings. He denounces wealth accumulation at the expense of others and criticizes exploitative practices, emphasizing the difficulty for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God.
And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money changers, and the seats of them that sold doves, And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.
Jesus’ intolerance and condemnation of wealth and exploitation extends to modern economic systems and industries, such as the arms trade, that profit from conflict and perpetuate violence. His teachings call for a radical rethinking of societal values, urging a shift towards love, peace, and justice, as advocated by modern movements for economic and social justice. EJUSA - Economic Justice.
Jesus’ Critique of the Arms Industry and Economic Exploitation
Jesus' teachings on non-violence and economic justice directly challenge the modern arms industry, which profits from conflict and perpetuates violence. In cleansing the temple, Jesus condemns the commercial exploitation of religious spaces, which can be seen as analogous to the exploitation inherent in involvement in the arms trade and other profit-driven industries that cause harm.
And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money changers, and the seats of them that sold doves, And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.
Jesus' actions in the temple are a direct critique of systems that exploit people for profit. Modern arms industries profit significantly from conflict and war, often perpetuating cycles of violence and suffering. Reports from organizations such as Oxfam highlight the devastating impacts of the arms trade on vulnerable populations. Oxfam - Arms Trade.
The arms industry, which profits from war and violence, is fundamentally at odds with Jesus' message of peace and the sanctity of life. His teachings emphasize that the pursuit of wealth at the expense of others is incompatible with the values of the Kingdom of God.
No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Who do you serve?
This perspective is a stark critique of industries and economic systems that prioritize profit over people, leading to widespread suffering and injustice. Modern critiques of economic exploitation, such as those by economists like Joseph Stiglitz, echo Jesus' call for an economy that serves people rather than profits. Global Policy Journal - Joseph Stiglitz.
Presupposing Jesus’ Sympathy Towards the Palestinian People and Groups Like Hamas
Jesus’ teachings on compassion and justice show that he would be sympathetic towards the plight of the Palestinian people, who have faced significant oppression and suffering. His message of love and care for the marginalized aligns with and demands a concern for those who are downtrodden and oppressed.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
Jesus’ call to care for the oppressed is particularly pertinent in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where Palestinians face systemic discrimination and violence. Reports by organizations such as the United Nations highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian territories. United Nations - Palestinian Territories.
Jesus’ call to love and pray for enemies, as seen in Matthew 5:44, suggests a radical approach to conflict and enmity. His teachings advocate for reconciliation and understanding, rather than violence and division.
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.
While modern groups like Hamas have been involved in violent actions and are often seen as controversial, Jesus' emphasis on understanding and compassion would surely lead him to advocate for addressing the underlying causes of their grievances and seeking peaceful solutions that honor the dignity and rights of all people involved. Reports from entities like the International Crisis Group also advocate for understanding the roots of conflict to find lasting peace. International Crisis Group - Hamas.
Current War Crimes and International Support
Various international entities and human rights organizations have documented and brought attention to numerous war crimes in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, currently under consideration by the International Criminal Court (ICC). These include:
- Targeting of Civilians: There have been numerous instances where civilian areas in Gaza were bombarded, leading to high civilian casualties. For example, the ICC is investigating the targeting of residential buildings, medical facilities, places of worship, and schools in Gaza by Israeli forces, which by their nature constitute war crimes. ICC - Palestine.
- Displacement and Settlement Expansion: The expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank involves the forced displacement of Palestinian communities, which the ICC is reviewing as potential violations of international law. ICC - Displacement and Settlements.
- Use of Excessive Force: There are numerous reports of excessive, indiscriminate force used by Israeli security forces against Palestinian civilians, including the use of live ammunition and terror tactics, which has resulted in significant casualties and injuries. Amnesty International - Excessive Force.
According to a U.N. report from the UN Human Rights Office of the High Commisioner:
In relation to Israeli military operations and attacks in Gaza, the Commission found that Israeli authorities are responsible for the war crimes of starvation as a method of warfare, murder or wilful killing, intentionally directing attacks against civilians and civilian objects, forcible transfer, sexual violence, torture and inhuman or cruel treatment, arbitrary detention and outrages upon personal dignity.
The Commission found that the crimes against humanity of extermination, gender persecution targeting Palestinian men and boys, murder, forcible transfer, and torture and inhuman and cruel treatment were also committed.
Press Release, 12 June 2024
These issues highlight ongoing violations of human rights and international law, which are directly relevant to modern discussions on justice and accountability in conflicts. International support for investigating these crimes reflects a growing recognition of the need for accountability and justice for all affected populations. Organizations like the International Criminal Court and Human Rights Watch play key roles in documenting and advocating for justice in these conflicts. Human Rights Watch - World Report, ICC - Palestine.
Rejection of Old Testament Violence in the New Covenant
Jesus’ teachings in the New Testament contrast sharply with the violence, genocide, and nationalism found in some Old Testament passages. The new covenant he establishes focuses on love, peace, and inclusivity, rejecting the violence against non-Jews that was sometimes condoned in the Old Testament.
Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.
Jesus' teachings promote a radical departure from the retributive justice and ethnic nationalism found in the Old Testament, advocating instead for reconciliation and universal compassion. This is relevant to modern conflicts where nationalist and exclusionary ideologies often justify violence, terror, and crimes against humanity. Reports by organizations such as the International Crisis Group emphasize the need for inclusive and peaceful approaches to conflict resolution. International Crisis Group - Israel/Palestine.
Jesus' emphasis on a new covenant of peace and love challenges the justification of violence in the name of religion or ethnicity, calling for a new approach to international relations and conflict resolution that prioritizes human dignity and equality. Modern advocates for peace and justice, such as Nobel laureates like Desmond Tutu, echo these principles in their calls for reconciliation and non-violence. Nobel Prize - Desmond Tutu.
Regarding Imperialist Practices and Their Utter Contradiction with Christian Teachings
Imperialist practices, such as those carried out by the United Fruit Company in the 20th century, demonstrate how economic and political interests have often been pursued at the expense of justice and human dignity. The United Fruit Company’s exploitation of Central American countries, leading to the term “banana republics,” is a stark example of how corporations have undermined sovereign nations for profit. The Atlantic - United Fruit Company.
This pattern of exploitation aligns with the broader history of U.S. imperialism, where economic and political interests have led to the suppression of democratic and labor movements and the support of oppressive regimes. For example, Joe Biden’s statement that “If there were no Israel, the United States of America would have to invent an Israel to protect our interests in the region” reflects a mindset that prioritizes strategic interests and profits over justice, loving-kindness, and human rights. The Guardian - Biden on Israel.
The CIA's involvement in coups and conflicts around the world, such as in Iran, Guatemala, and Vietnam, demonstrates a similar prioritization of economic and political interests over human rights and justice. These actions have often led to the destabilization of nations and significant suffering for their people. For example, the CIA’s support for the overthrow of democratically elected leaders in Iran and Guatemala and its involvement in the Vietnam War are stark examples of how U.S. imperialism has perpetuated violence and oppression. National Security Archive - Iran, The Guardian - CIA in Vietnam.
Such attitudes and actions are fundamentally at odds with Jesus' teachings. By supporting policies that perpetuate inequality and violence, you betray the values of justice, compassion, and love that Jesus emphasized. If you truly believe that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, you must oppose and rebuke these practices and work towards a world that reflects his teachings.
Patriotism and the American Legacy of Justice
Patriotism can be a powerful force for good when it aligns with the principles of justice, equality, and compassion. As Americans, you can draw on the legacy of figures like Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., and others who championed these values.
Abraham Lincoln (16th President of the United States): “Those who deny freedom to others, deserve it not for themselves.” (Abraham Lincoln Online)
Lincoln’s words remind you of the moral imperative to stand against oppression and fight for the rights of all people, not just those who share your nationality, way of life, or beliefs. This aligns with Jesus’ call to love your neighbors and care for the least among us.
Martin Luther King Jr. (Civil Rights Leader): “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” (MLK - Letter from Birmingham Jail)
King’s message underscores the interconnectedness of all people and the importance of fighting for justice everywhere. His commitment to non-violence and equality resonates with Jesus’ teachings and challenges you to reflect on your actions and policies.
John F. Kennedy (35th President of the United States): “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.” (JFK Library - Inaugural Address)
Kennedy’s call to service reminds you that patriotism involves a commitment to the common good and the principles of justice and equality. It challenges you to align your actions with these values, both at home and abroad.
John Brown (Abolitionist): “I, John Brown, am now quite certain that the crimes of this guilty land will never be purged away but with blood.” (Biography - John Brown)
Brown’s words, while reflecting his radical stance against slavery, remind you of the deep moral cost of injustice and the urgent need to fight - even to die as a martyr, like Brown himself, or Jesus of Nazareth, He who is said to have died on the cross for you, Christian - in the name of true freedom and equality for all.
The Consequences of Your Actions
Jesus warned that your actions have eternal consequences. In Matthew 25:31-46, he speaks of the final judgment, where those who neglect the needy are cast into eternal punishment:
Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
This passage holds a grave warning for those who fail to live out the values of compassion and justice. If you truly believe that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, then you must heed his words and align your actions with his teachings. Otherwise, you risk eternal consequences for your neglect of the least among us.
Conclusion: A Call to Justice and Compassion
As Americans and Christians, you are called to reflect on your beliefs and actions in light of the teachings of Jesus Christ. His words challenge you to stand against oppression, seek justice, and care for the marginalized. The legacy of American figures who fought for justice and equality provides a powerful example for you to follow.
If you truly believe in the values of love, compassion, and justice, you must oppose practices that perpetuate inequality and violence, both at home and abroad. Let us strive to live out the teachings of Jesus and work towards a world that reflects his vision of peace and justice for all.