ONE NEW MAN - Episode 011 - From Abraham to Herzl: The Story of Israel & Modern Zionism

In the 14th episode of 'The One New Man', co-hosts Chris Kuehl and John Myers discuss significant historical events leading to the establishment of the modern state of Israel and its subsequent wars. The episode recaps with the British Balfour Declaration and the mandate that formalized it, followed by the restrictive British white papers, and culminates in the 1947 United Nations Partition Plan. The episode also delves into the Arab-Jewish conflict around the establishment of Israel. The UN Partition Plan's adoption leads to increased violence and celebration among Jews, with contrasting somber reflections from leaders like Menachem Begin and David Ben Gurion who anticipated future wars. Highlighted is the first war of 1948, including key milestones like the Kfar Etzion massacre and the formation of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The narrative transitions to the events and alliances leading up to the Six-Day War (1967) and the Yom Kippur War (1973), showcasing how Israel's unexpected victories reshaped political dynamics in the Middle East. These wars are reviewed through the perspectives of faith and the divine intervention believed by many to be aiding Israel. John explores King David's faith as a warrior, paralleling the miraculous triumphs in these wars, and emphasizes the importance of humility before God.

In the 13th episode of 'The One New Man,' hosts Chris and John delve into the historical context of Israel's formation between 1900 and 1948. The discussion covers the significant political and social influences that contributed to the Zionist movement, the Balfour Declaration, and its international acceptance by major powers like Britain, France, and the U.S. They explore how the British mandate and subsequent white papers affected Jewish immigration and settlement, leading to friction with Arab populations and Britain’s eventual withdrawal from its promises. The episode also highlights the evolution of Jewish defense organizations, leading to the establishment of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Chris and John discuss the theological implications of Israel’s military actions in light of Christian pacifism and biblical prophecies. They aim to reconcile the perspectives of pacifism advocated by Jesus with the pragmatic necessities and divine support that many believe underpin Israel's military efforts. The episode concludes by affirming the ongoing relevance of biblical prophecies and God's promises related to Israel.

In episode 12 of 'The One New Man,' hosts Chris and John Myers discuss early Christian Zionism, detailing the contributions of key figures like Charles Spurgeon, James Balfour, and Harry Truman in the movement, all of whom shared a vision for the restoration of Israel. They highlight the non-dispensational roots of early Christian support for Israel and the prophetic journey from the late 1890s to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. The episode also explores the miraculous transformation of the barren land of Israel as Jewish pioneers returned, reclaiming and revitalizing it amidst harsh conditions. This restoration is seen as divinely orchestrated, reflecting God's promises and illustrating His ongoing involvement in the physical and spiritual renewal of Israel.