Product Description

A comprehensive examination and assessment of the history, theology and political implications of Christian Zionism

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #328217 in Books
• Published on: 2004-11-19
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 304 pages

Anthony McRoy; Church of England Newspaper; September 2005
If any book deserves the accolade of being the definitive critique of 'Christian Zionist', it is this.

David McKay; Covenanter Witness; October 2005
In some circles this book will be vilified and written off as ‘anti-Semitic’. Undeservedly so ...

Justin Thacker; Third Way; October 2005
This really is an important work and my only hope is that it is read widely ...

Customer Reviews

The Gospel according to Chomsky: Displacement Theology

The first chapter: The Historical Roots of Christian Zionism, is devoted to an in-depth study of an obscure theology called premillennial dispensationalism. This chapter then looks at early British supporters of Israel like Lord Shaftesbury and Lord Balfour and his famous declaration as well as Christian political support for the Jewish Zionist movement. It concludes with a discussion of contemporary Christian Zionism in the USA. I must immediately recommend two books that are more informative and less biased: The History of Christian Zionism by Paul Charles Merkley and Standing With Israel by David Brog. It need be said that support for Israel is widespread amongst all Christians, Catholic, Protestant and others.

In the second chapter Sizer discusses the theological emphases of Christian Zionism with reference to a futurist hermeneutic, the relationship between Israel and the Church, restorationism, Jerusalem and the temple, concluding with the eschatology and "distinctive" theology of the movement. In truth, Christian Zionism is not a monolithic movement, as demonstrated by works like Christian Attitudes towards the State of Israel by Paul Merkley, The Irrevocable Calling by Dan Juster, In Defense of Israel by John Hagee, and Don Finto's excellent book God's Promise and the Future of Israel. Christian support for Israel has a simple explanation: "I will bless those who bless you" of Genesis 12:3.

In the third chapter Sizer accuses Christian Zionists of supporting Israeli colonialism, opposing peace and hastening Armageddon. These ludicrous accusations derive from the facts that the Palestinian liberation theologian Naim Ateek is a close associate of the author. Sizer's fear-mongering is merely the discredited ideas of Noam Chomsky - the apologist for Pol Pot - used as propaganda in the theological sphere. Sizer is an adherent of Displacement Theology, also called supercessionism or replacement theology. He writes: " ... There is, therefore, no evidence that the apostles believed that the Jewish people still had a divine right to the land ..." This is an example of the most arrogant anti-Judaism imaginable. It is characteristic of Christian Antisemites to deny Israel's right to life and deny the validity of the Old Testament by appealing to "fulfillment in Christ," in direct denial of Acts 15 in the Good Book. It is also a manifestation of Preterism, a doctrine holding that all Old Testament prophecy has already been fulfilled. For the firm Biblical grounds of Christian support for Israel, please see Future Israel by Barry Horner.

In the Conclusion, Sizer claims that the support of Israel by American evangelicals "is inherently and pathologically destructive." In line with the Gospel of Chomsky he spews the gamut of accusations: American hegemony, racial discrimination, colonialism, apartheid and the demonization of Islam. When the mask slips, his words can be very revealing. When discussing "ethical requirements" for ownership of the land and referring to the "meek" of Psalm 37:11, he states: " ... the question may legitimately be asked whether, due to its expansionist policies, the state of Israel might not expect another exile rather than a restoration." Chilling. But I see no expansion, only withdrawal from Lebanon and from Gaza. Ronald Reagan said liberals know a lot of things that just aint so. As for Sizer's and Jimmy Carter smear of Israel as an "apartheid state", it is a demonstrable lie. Approximately 20% of Israeli citizens are Arabs and 16% of its citizens are Muslims. For the record, at the last check its Arab citizens were represented by 10 members in the Israeli parliament belonging to three political parties: Balad, Hadash and the United Arab List - Ta'al.

Sizer ignores the historical circumstances that led to the rebirth of Israel in 1948. You will find no background here of Haj al-Amin al-Husseini or how its Arab neighbors tried to strangle the Jewish state at birth. Likewise he seems oblivious to the dangers that at present face the little country: genocidal threats from Iran and Hezbollah, endless missiles from Hamas threatening the residents of Sderot and other towns plus Syrian threats of war. Then there is the antisemitic incitement in the Arab media, including those of the Palestinian Authority. How sinister of a self-styled Anglican Christian to deny the tide of Islamist violence and terrorism and the plight of Christians in Moslem countries while trying to delegitimize the only Middle Eastern state that guarantees freedom of worship to Christians and all other groups. Sizer even has the nerve to attack humanitarian organizations in Israel that assist both Arabs and Jews! How superior he is, sitting in his home in England or attending conferences of Sabeel and the Middle East Council of Churches where he no doubts looks worried and important and is considered a valuable dhimmi.

The most illuminating book Christian Antisemitism by William Nicholls reveals the theology and the history behind the replacement theology that has surfaced once again in Sizer's work. In this regard it is important to note what marks the Christian anti-Semite:

a) Some form of (mostly covert) Replacement Theology.
b) Extreme spiritualizing or allegorizing of the Jewish scriptures, in particular the twisting of Old Testament prophecies about Israel in order to usurp every promise for "the church" or arguing that the original texts refer to Christ.
c) The blurring of the distinction between the unconditional Abrahamic Covenant regarding ownership of the land and the conditional Mosaic Covenant of laws.
d) A formless, ethereal view of mankind's ultimate destiny wherein no distinctive cultures or national identities survive since all become "one in Christ".
e) A cursory treatment or derisive view of the facts that led to the rebirth of Israel and of the subsequent wars.
f) An undertone of disdain and malice towards the Jewish people that cannot be completely concealed.

The blessing and the curse
The first chapter: The Historical Roots of Christian Zionism, is an exhaustive and exhausting (for the reader) study of an obscure theology "premillennial dispensationalism." It also covers some early British supporters of a Jewish homeland in the Levant like Lords Shaftesbury and Balfour, his famous declaration as well as Christian political support for the Jewish Zionist movement. It concludes with the author's biased opinion of contemporary Christian Zionism in the USA. Fortunately there are far superior books available for the discerning reader and those who seek only the facts: The Politics of Christian Zionism, 1891-1948 by Paul Charles Merkley and Standing with Israel by David Brog. It must always be borne in mind that Israel is supported by all sorts of Christians: Anglican, Baptist, Catholic, Calvinist, Charismatic, Evangelical, Lutheran, Methodist, Orthodox, Pentecostal and Presbyterian amongst others.

Subjects of chapter two include the theological emphases of Christian Zionism with reference to a futurist hermeneutic, the relationship between Israel and the Church, restorationism and Jerusalem & the Temple. It concludes with the eschatology and "distinctive" theology of the movement. In reality Christian Zionism is more like a large tent than a monolithic movement defined by a particular theology. Proof is available in works like Christian Attitudes Towards the State of Israel by Paul Charles Merkley, The Irrevocable Calling: Israel's Role as a Light to the Nations by Dan Juster and Don Finto's excellent book God's Promise and the Future of Israel. Christian support for Israel has a simple explanation: "I will bless those who bless you" of Genesis 12:3.

In chapter three Sizer accuses Christian Zionists of supporting Israeli colonialism, opposing peace and hastening Armageddon. These ludicrous calumnies make sense in view of the author's association with Naim Ateek, the Palestinian liberation theologian. Sizer's fear-mongering resembles the political propaganda of Noam Chomsky, the Pol Pot apologist and Hezbollah fan, in theological language. This is the demonic doctrine of Displacement Theology, also known as Supercessionism or Replacement Theology. He writes: " ... There is, therefore, no evidence that the apostles believed that the Jewish people still had a divine right to the land ..." This is an example of arrogant anti-Judaism. Christian Antisemites compulsively deny Israel's right to life and the clear meaning of the Old Testament through pious expressions like "fulfillment in Christ," in direct denial of Acts 15. This also points to Preterism, a doctrine holding that all Old Testament prophecy has already been fulfilled. For the firm Biblical foundations of Christian support for Israel, please see Future Israel: Why Christian Anti-Judaism Must Be Challenged by Barry Horner.

In the Conclusion, Sizer claims that American evangelicals' support of Israel is "inherently and pathologically destructive." Following Chomskyan orthodoxy, he levels the familiar litany of leftist accusations: American hegemony, racial discrimination, colonialism, apartheid and the sin of Islamophobia. Fascinating attitudes are exposed when the veil of piety slips a bit, e.g. in discussing "ethical requirements" for ownership of the land and referring to the "meek" of Psalm 37:11, Sizer states: " ... the question may legitimately be asked whether, due to its expansionist policies, the state of Israel might not expect another exile rather than a restoration."

But there is no expansion, only withdrawal! First from the Sinai, then from Lebanon and most recently from Gaza. Ronald Reagan said "liberals know a lot of things that just ain't so." The "apartheid" smear also made by Jimmy Carter is demonstrably untrue. Approximately 20% of Israeli citizens are Arabs and 16% of its citizens are Muslims. When I last checked the Israeli parliament had 10 Arab members representing three political parties: Balad, Hadash and the United Arab List - Ta'al. Jewish Israelis comprise all races, including people from Africa, India and a large number whose ancestors had lived in the Middle East for 2000 years.

Sizer ignores the historical circumstances that led to the 1948 rebirth of Israel. You will find no mention of Hitler's ally Haj al-Amin al-Husseini or the attempt of its Arab neighbors to strangle the Jewish state at birth. He seems oblivious to the dangers currently facing the little country: genocidal threats from Iran and Hezbollah, an endless rain of Hamas missiles on Sderot and other towns plus Syrian threats of war. The antisemitic incitement in the Arab media, including those of the Palestinian Authority, is ignored. How sinister of a so-called Christian to deny the tide of Islamist violence and the oppression of Christians in the Islamic world while trying to delegitimize the only Middle Eastern state that guarantees freedom of worship to members of all religions. Sizer even attacks humanitarian organizations in Israel that provide aid to both Arabs and Jews!

That most illuminating book Christian Anti-Semitism by William Nicholls reveals the theology and history behind the plague of replacement theology that informs Sizer's work. In this regard it's helpful to list some of its features:

a) Some variety of cryptic Replacement Theology.
b) Extreme spiritualizing or allegorizing of the Jewish scriptures, in particular the twisting of Old Testament prophecies about Israel in order to appropriate every promise for "the church" or arguing that they refer to Christ.
c) Blurring the distinction between the unconditional Abrahamic Covenant regarding ownership of the land and the conditional Mosaic Covenant of laws.
d) A foggy view of mankind's ultimate destiny in which no distinctive cultures or national identities survive since all become "one in Christ".
e) A cursory treatment or derisive view of the facts surrounding the rebirth of Israel and the wars for survival.
f) An undercurrent of disdain and malice towards the Jewish people.

The promise of Genesis 12:3 contains both blessing and curse; history provides ample empirical evidence that it is always fulfilled. In its widest sense, the word curse encompasses slurs, slander, innuendo, false accusations and the unfairness of holding Israel to an impossibly high standard of behavior or singling it out for criticism while withholding same from other countries. Those who employ words as weapons around an issue on which the Good Book is very clear ought to carefully consider the consequences.

What others are saying about this book
"Stephen Sizer's Christian Zionism dramatically demonstrates how a politicized religious movement with a dubious pedigree is a prescription for disaster. From caricaturing Arabs to catalyzing Armageddon, Christian Zionist beliefs and behaviors are the antithesis of biblical Christianity." Hank Hanegraaff, President of the Christian Research Institute and host of the Bible Answer Man broadcast.

"A well written book on a vital subject. All Christians should read this book which documents one of the most important subjects to face us in the 21st century." Father Michael Harper, Dean of the British Antiochian Orthodox Deanery and a director of The Institute for Orthodox Christian Studies, Wesley House, Cambridge.

"Once again a Semitic group of people are suffering, particularly through the racism of Christians - this time it¹s the Palestinians. Stephen Sizer's masterly overview on Christian Zionism shows us how this appalling fact becomes a reality. Hopefully it will help Christians to expunge all racism and anti-Semitism (whether against Palestinian or Jew) from our theology and become the peacemakers Jesus called us to be. As Stephen traces the history of Christian Zionism, our eyes are opened to a theology that manipulates and oppresses and shows no dignity or justice to Jew or Palestinian. It is time for a theology that values all equally instead of a theology that sees God as biased." Canon Garth Hewitt, Founder and International Director of the Amos Trust and Canon of St. George's Cathedral, Jerusalem.

"When the lines are not clearly drawn and Premillennialism is confused with Christian Zionism, the book Christian Zionism. Road-map to Armageddon? is an essential reading. Stephen Sizer goes into the historical roots, the theological arguments and the political implications of Christian Zionism." Dr Nabeel T. Jabbour, Visiting Professor of Columbia Biblical Seminary, Tyndale Seminary, Western Seminary and Whitworth College and on the staff of the Navigators, Colorado Springs.

"Stephen Sizer's Christian Zionism: Road-map to Armageddon? provides a detailed and thoughtful critique of the framework Hagee and many others enthusiastically embrace. Sizer is vicar of Christ Church in Surrey, England, and chair of the International Bible Society in the United Kingdom. His book explores the historical development, theological underpinnings, and political implications of Christian Zionism, a movement that began in Britain in the 19th century... Americans have been inundated with images and information on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for decades. Numerous and often conflicting images and impressions leave many with a kind of "detailed ignorance." Far too few have a coherent framework for understanding and interpreting events in ways that can lead to constructive advocacy, either as concerned citizens or people of faith. The books by Carter and Sizer offer helpful guidance for those who seek to understand the multiple and often convoluted political and religious dynamics that often thwart hopes for a more peaceful future in the Middle East." Dr. Charles Kimball, Professor of Comparative Religion, Wake Forest University Department of Religion and Divinity School.

"I am pleased to commend Stephen Sizer's masterly book for exposing the sectarian roots, dubious theology and destructive consequences of Christian Zionism. It shifts the focus of God's redemptive purposes away from the Church and onto a contemporary secular State. God's continuing love for the Jewish people must not be confused with aspirations for an earthly kingdom which Jesus has already repudiated." Prebendary Dick Lucas, Chairman of the Proclamation Trust and Rector Emeritus of St Helen's, Bishopsgate, London.

"If any book deserves the accolade of being the definitive critique of 'Christian Zionism', it is this. Popular, lucid and readable, this is a dispassionate and scholarly yet critical evaluation of the phenomenon. His theological critique of Dispensationalist Zionism, is masterly - notably of the way modern advocates such as Hal Lindsey manage to find America in the Bible!" Dr Anthony McRoy, Lecturer in Islamics, Evangelical Theological College, Wales.

"Congratulations on Christian Zionism. The index alone makes my mouth water, since this is the scholarly treatment to counteract the rabid prophecy pack for which I had been searching. I couldn't be happier that this is published. You and I see eye to eye on this issue... Yours is a true prophetic voice so badly needed in the current prophecy frenzy. And when this mania also affects national and international policy, the danger takes on larger proportions." Professor Paul Maier, Russell H. Seibert Professor of Ancient History in the Department of History, College of Arts and Sciences, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo.

"In the past quarter century, evangelical fundamentalist Christian Zionism has developed into a major theological movement and has made a significant political impact in the United States. Its effect upon the Arab-Israeli conflict continues to increase yearly. Unfortunately, many Christians and non-Christians possess little knowledge of this phenomenon. Stephen Sizer's book is without doubt the best and most comprehensive analysis to date about Christian Zionism; it deserves to be read seriously." Professor Norton Mezvinsky, University Professor of History, Central Connecticut State University.

"my fellow Zionists... will be disturbed by my agreement with much of Sizer's criticism of this position... I am grateful to Stephen Sizer for drawing attention to the legitimate criticisms of dispensational Zionism. He has rendered a service to the cause of Zionism which was needed." David Pawson, Retired Baptist Minister.

"Stephen's careful study of this movement demonstrates that theology really matters and, if the theology is wrong, the consequences are disastrous. I hope that Christian Zionists who read this book will recognize that it is written by someone who believes in the inspiration and authority of Scripture as they do, and will consider carefully the challenge he brings to their particular line of interpretation." Revd Professor David Peterson, Former Principal of Oak Hill College, London (author of Engaging with God, Hebrews and Perfection & Possessed by God).

"Stephen is the foremost authority on the phenomenon of Christian Zionism in Britain today. He communicates with conviction and insight his critique of this profound misreading of the Bible. He challenged me to consider how I read Scripture; what I believe about the relationship of Jewish people to God and how the Christian churches in this country should be supporting the people of Israeli and Palestinian people." Revd John Rackley, President of the Baptist Union of Great Britain, Minister of Manvers Street Baptist Church, Bath and a Chaplain to the University of Bath.

"Here is a book to help anyone wanting to grapple with the complicated interweaving of history, politics and theology that makes up the fabric of modern Israel. Not all will agree with every detail of Stephen's analysis, but the arguments are compelling and the book is a corrective to the sloppy theology found in some evangelical circles today. This should be essential reading for all who pray and work for the peace of Jerusalem and it will help us to be truly supportive of both Jew and Palestinian." Canon John Salter, Vice-chairman of the Garden Tomb Association & member of the Oak Hill College Council.

"I knew something about Balfour's 'declaration' but nothing of the Christian Zionism that was behind his support of a homeland for the Jews. Stephen Sizer's excellent book shows the role of Christian fundamentalist thinking in moulding the politics of the UK in the 1800's and which provided the political groundwork that enabled Zionism to flourish. He goes on to show how this same fundamentalism plays a major role in shaping US policy today. In attempting to understand and counter the terrorist attacks that we are seeing today, we need to look not just at Muslim fundamentalism. We must also look at Christian Zionism that had such part in the carve up of the Middle East after the Ottoman Empire, that underpins US support for Israel today and plays a major part in stimulating that Muslim fundamentalism. Misinterpretation of the bible gave rise to Apartheid and was rightly exposed as a heresy. Christian Zionism needs similar treatment. Sizer provides a very well written and researched book giving not only the problems but also ideas for a solution." Dr Roger Spooner, retired Honorary Professor, Edinburgh University.

"I am glad to commend Stephen Sizer's ground-breaking critique of Christian Zionism. His comprehensive overview of its roots, its theological basis and its political consequences is very timely. I myself believe that Zionism, both political and Christian, is incompatible with biblical faith. Stephen's book has helped to reinforce this conviction." Revd Dr John Stott, Rector Emeritus, All Soul's, Langham Place, London, the principal framer of the Lausanne Covenant (1974) and founder of the Langham Partnership International.