The concept of “True Israel” versus “Physical Israel” can be understood through a biblical lens, highlighting the distinction between spiritual and ethnic lineage. According to the New Testament, True Israel comprises those who are in Christ Jesus, regardless of their ethnic background. This spiritual Israel is a community of believers who have faith in Jesus Christ and are thus considered children of God. Galatians 3:28-29 emphasizes this unity: "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."
On the other hand, Physical Israel refers to the Jewish people, those born into Jewish families and descended from the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This ethnic Israel has a unique historical and covenantal relationship with God, as described in the Old Testament. Romans 9:4-5 speaks to their significance: "Theirs is the adoption to sonship; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises."
Understanding these distinctions helps Christians approach the Jewish community with respect and love, recognizing their important role in God's redemptive history.
