A Mixed Reaction from a Bible-Believing Perspective
Just last week on April 23rd, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar appointed George Deek as Israel’s first-ever Special Envoy to the Christian World.
The purpose of this new position is to strengthen ties between the nation of Israel and Christian communities all over the world.
Who is George Deek?
George Deek is an Arab Christian from Jaffa, Israel. He comes from a well-known Orthodox Christian family there. His father served for many years as chairman of the Orthodox community in Jaffa.
Brother Deek has been a diplomat for Israel for about eighteen years. He previously served as Israel’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan and was the first Christian to hold that position. Many believe his background will help him build bridges because he is both an Israeli Christian and a loyal servant of the Jewish state.
From one side, this appointment is a positive step. Israel is reaching out to Christians worldwide and showing that they value these relationships.
In a part of the world where Christians often suffer persecution in neighbouring countries, it is encouraging to see Israel wanting better communication and understanding.
As God’s people, we are told in the Scriptures to pray for the peace of Jerusalem, and anything that helps reduce tension can be appreciated in that light.
The part that gives many of us pause
George Deek comes from the Eastern Orthodox tradition. Now, from a simple, born-again perspective, the Orthodox Church has many similarities to the Roman Catholic Church, very long liturgical services, the use of incense, icons, veneration of saints and Mary, and a heavy emphasis on ritual and tradition.
To those of us who love the simplicity that is in Christ, these things can be very troubling. The Lord Jesus Himself warned about worship that honours God only with the lips while the heart is far from Him.
He spoke against teaching the commandments of men as doctrines. The Apostle Paul also warned us to beware lest we be cheated by the traditions of men and not according to Christ.
We believe real Christianity is not centered in rituals, incense, or icons. It is centred in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, being born again by the Spirit of God through simple faith in the finished work of the cross.
Trying to hold both truths
We can be thankful that Israel is making an effort to build better relations with Christians, while at the same time remaining clear that we cannot endorse or agree with these ritualistic traditions.
Our love and support for Israel come straight from the Bible and from God’s faithfulness to His chosen people, not from any theological compromise.
George Deek’s new role is diplomatic, not spiritual. His job is to improve practical relationships between Israel and various Christian groups.
We can pray that the Lord gives him wisdom as he carries out this responsibility, especially in his dealings with evangelical and born-again believers who love Israel and pray for her every day.
A simple prayer for us all
Let us continue to pray for the nation of Israel and for the peace of Jerusalem. Let us also pray for George Deek in this new position, that God would guide him.
Above all, may we stay rooted in the simplicity that is in Christ and keep our hearts and worship pure according to the Word of God.
“These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me.” (Matthew 15:8 NKJV)
What do you think, folks? Have you heard about this appointment? How do you balance praying for Israel with staying true to simple New Testament faith?
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.
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