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Christian Zionism has been a significant, though debated, factor in the growth of Israel, providing theological support and political advocacy that preceded and paralleled the Jewish Zionist movement. This backing has been particularly influential in shaping the policies of key Western powers, including Great Britain and the United States.
Christian Zionism before 1948
Intellectual and religious foundation
English Protestant Restorationism: In the 17th century, English Puritans developed the idea of "restorationism," believing in the eventual return of the Jewish people to the Holy Land as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy.
Influence on British policy: By the 19th century, figures like Lord Shaftesbury successfully lobbied for political support of a Jewish return to Palestine. This religious belief later became integrated into British policy, laying the groundwork for the 1917 Balfour Declaration.
Support for Jewish Zionism: When the modern Jewish Zionist movement began in the late 19th century, Christian restorationists, who were by then being called Christian Zionists, offered enthusiastic support. A notable figure was William Hechler, a British clergyman who became a close friend and key diplomatic aide to Theodor Herzl, the founder of modern political Zionism.
Post-1948 growth of influence
Shift to the United States
Rise of dispensationalism: In the 20th century, the center of Christian Zionism moved to the United States. Dispensationalism, a theological framework that emphasizes a distinction between Israel and the church, gained influence among American evangelicals.
Theological motivations: For many Christian Zionists, the establishment of Israel in 1948 was a partial fulfillment of prophecy and a precursor to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Supporting Israel is therefore seen as a spiritual duty.
Political power and lobbying
Organizational strength: Organizations like Christians United for Israel (CUFI) boast millions of members, far outnumbering traditional Jewish lobby groups. These groups are highly effective at mobilizing their members and influencing U.S. politics.
Conservative alliance: Beginning in the 1980s, Christian Zionists became a powerful voting bloc within the Republican Party, contributing to a solid, ongoing relationship with the Israeli government.
Support for controversial policies: This political influence has resulted in support for specific policies, such as the U.S. recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and the ongoing expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
Financial and material support
Humanitarian and development aid: Christian Zionist organizations have poured millions of dollars into Israel, funding various humanitarian, resettlement, and security programs.
West Bank settlement funding: Some Christian Zionist groups have specifically funded Jewish settlement programs in the West Bank, often for religious reasons related to biblical prophecy.
Promoting immigration (Aliyah): Groups like the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews help finance and facilitate the immigration of Jewish people to Israel, seeing it as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy.
Ambivalence in the relationship
Jewish perspectives
Strategic alliance: Many Jewish Zionist leaders, including the Israeli government, have embraced the support of Christian Zionists to advance their political goals, even while acknowledging the complex motivations of their Christian partners.
Theological differences: Some in the Jewish community remain wary, noting that many Christian Zionists believe in the eventual conversion of Jews to Christianity or their destruction in the End Times.
Criticism from other Christian groups
Palestinian Christians: The rise of Christian Zionism has been criticized by Palestinian Christians, who feel it ignores their rights and has negative consequences for Palestinians in general.
Alternative perspectives: There are also many American Christians and churches that advocate for Palestinian rights, rejecting the idea that supporting Palestinians is a contradiction of their faith.

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