Sunday Sermon Recap (24th March 2013)

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The Olive Tree

By Pr. Abel Phillips

It’s important as the symbol of Israel- The seven branch-like of olive on either side and a Menorah in the middle, and that’s from Zechariah 4:6 The vision that the prophet had. ‘Not by might, not by power but by My Spirit says the Lord of the host of heaven.

The Olive shoots (Notzrim in Hebrew) brings the double meaning;

1) The Shoots represent us (the Gentiles) and we are call to be watchmen - Matt 26:41- To watch and pray that we don’t give in to temptation.

2) Notzrim (shoots) comes from the same root word ‘Nazareth’- Jesus is the shoot from Nazareth – A Jewish Messiah who died from us on the cross. John 19:19 – Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews was the title put on the Cross. Salvation for the shoots (Salvation for Gentiles first), that was grafted to the Olive tree of Israel, then back to the Jews.

Roman 11:17-18 - And if some of the branches (Jews) were broken off, and you ( believers), being a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them, and with them became a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree, ¹⁸ do not boast against the branches (Israel). But if you do boast, remember that you do not support the root, but the root supports you.

It is time that we, the Church, put aside our arrogance and, in humility, understand what it means to be that wild olive branch graciously grafted in by God to receive from Israel those everlasting covenants, promises and hopes that we have been "made near" (Eph. 2:11-13) -- lest we be broken off for our arrogance and boasting.

Let us honor our roots and show love and mercy to God's natural branches! 

As Believers, we are all called to support The Nation of Israel. 

In Genesis 12:3, the Lord promises to "bless those who bless you (Israel), and whoever curses you I will curse" (NIV). 

Psalm 122 instructs us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem,“ ( Salvation of the Jews)

At this crucial time in history, Israel needs believers who are willing to stand with her for unfailing strength, Godly wisdom and strong leaders who will uphold the purposes and plans of God.