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Are Modern Jews Still God’s Chosen People?

Q: Are modern day Jews no longer God’s chosen people because they deny that Jesus Christ is the Messiah? I’ve heard that Jews acknowledge His existence, historically speaking, but they do not believe He is a prophet or that He is their Messiah.

I believe that anybody can still be redeemed, but I find it hard to believe that anybody who actively denies Jesus Christ as the Messiah can be considered a people of God.

Summary

In this episode, Dr. E addresses a thoughtful question many Christians wrestle with: Are modern-day Jews still God’s chosen people if they reject Jesus as the Messiah? His answer is both biblical and nuanced.

Dr. Easley begins by tracing the biblical origins of the terms Hebrew, Israel, and Jew, explaining how each developed throughout Israel’s history. He then turns to Romans 9–11, emphasizing that God’s covenant promises to Israel have not failed. While he rejects replacement theology, he also makes an essential distinction: being God’s chosen people does not guarantee salvation. Just as every person must, Jewish people must also place their faith in Jesus Christ to be saved.

The conversation explores the relationship between ethnic Israel, the modern nation of Israel, and God’s ongoing covenant promises. Dr. Easley discusses the restoration of Israel in 1948, acknowledges differing Christian perspectives, and recommends resources for studying the topic more deeply.

Ultimately, the episode reminds listeners to hold two biblical truths together: God remains faithful to His promises to Israel, and salvation has always come through faith in the promised Messiah. Rather than fueling division, this discussion encourages humility, biblical literacy, and prayer for the peace of Israel while sharing the gospel with love.

Takeaways:

• God’s covenant promises to Israel remain, even though salvation comes only through faith in Jesus Christ.
• Romans 9–11 teaches that God’s promises to Israel have not been canceled or replaced.
• Being ethnically Jewish does not automatically mean someone is spiritually saved.
• Every person—Jew or Gentile—must trust Jesus as the promised Messiah for salvation.
• Understanding the biblical history of Hebrews, Israel, and Jews helps clarify today’s questions.
• Christians should pray for Israel while lovingly pointing all people to Christ.

Links Mentioned:

Dr. Michael Rydelnik on inContext 

How Should Christians Think About Israel by Dr. Michael Rydelnik

Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here.

If you’ve got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.