Evangelicals try to fix Middle East ‘misperception’

WYNNEWOOD, Pa. — A broad coalition of evangelical leaders is attempting to “correct a serious misperception” that all evangelicals oppose creating a Palestinian state. Led by Ron Sider, a professor at the American Baptist-affiliated Palmer Theological Seminary in Wynnewood, Pa., and head of Evangelicals for Social Action, the coalition sent a letter to President Bush expressing support for a proposed two-state solution.

“The only way to bring the tragic cycle of violence to end,” reads the July 27 letter, “is for Israelis and Palestinians to negotiate a just, lasting agreement that guarantees both sides viable, independent, secure states.” Historically evangelicals have adopted a pro-Israel stance in defense of the biblical “chosen people.” The letter reflects a more nuanced perspective on the conflict — one that affirms legitimate property rights on both sides while also placing blame for violence on both sides. 

“[W]e know that blessing and loving people (including Jews and the present [state] of Israel) does not mean withholding criticism when it is warranted,” the letter said, suggesting that “the best way we can bless Israel” might be to “remember … the profound teaching on justice that the Hebrew prophets proclaimed so forcefully.”
Thirty-four evangelical leaders signed the document, including a former president of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship; current presidents of Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, Calif., and Bethel University in St. Paul, Minn.; the editor of Christianity Today; and the national director of Vineyard USA.