This article, however, contains a number of items of concern. It refers to “Palestine” as if it was already an existing state, which it is not and never was. There is a “Palestinian Authority”, which has responsibility over a certain area and population, but the rift between Fatah and Hamas is so great as to make real cooperation between them unattainable, for now. Referring to “Palestine” in the sense that it is presented here accepts the narrative that Israel is an occupying entity. This begs the question “when did it ‘occupy’?” Judea and Samaria (the West Bank) were formerly part of Jordan. Gaza (although given to the tribe of Judah as an inheritance) was temporarily controlled by Egypt. There never was a “Palestinian” entity in the sense of statehood. Nor does the area referred to as “Palestine” (named by the Romans after the fall of Jerusalem in 70 AD) under the British Mandate qualify. An examination of history is necessary to clarify this and to verify the information.

The possibility of a revenge killing is very much contrary to the way that Israel has acted. Even those who are referred to as “nationalists” acted in the “Price Tag” situations against property only, not against individuals. Israel does not act in vengeance, but out of security needs. This latter aspect is made evident in the article. It would not be surprising to find out that the killing of the arab teenager was the result of action from his own community. Speculation should cover both possibilities, not just one.

Finally, the impression given is that openness to the Gospel in Israel is a new thing. It is not. There is a thriving Messianic Jewish community in Israel, numbering in the thousands, with over 100 congregations spread throughout the country, from Dan to Beersheva. The Gospel is preached openly. There is a general rejection of Christianity before of its history, which is filled with forced conversions and murder of Jews in the name of Christ. But, God is touching people individually and is bringing back His remnant, in accordance with His Word.

Israel is the key to prophecy. The Bible enables us to understand what is happening around us. The return of the Lord is dependent upon the Jewish people calling upon Him (Matt. 23:37-39). A ministry outreach to the Jewish people will bear fruit, if done in His power, His wisdom and His time.