You help me make a more complex point here Lisa. From our previous conversations, even with our small differences in theology over end times events (I'm pre-trib) or our difference in opinion over OSAS, you find it hard to understand my motives. How much more difficult if I were to come from another culture and have been told and genuinely believe a different version of events to the view you and I do about Israel.
I have never felt like an oppressed minority, but perhaps the closest I might get to it would be going on holiday to a foreign country. Even when nobody is attacking me or arguing with me, I think it is human nature to find (in my case) relief in finding a fellow English speaker and heading to the chip shop together! How much more do "minority politics" come to bear when history, religion, family, role models, anger and grievance all enter the mix?
Why am I saying this? Perhaps because I have come to see this forum as less of a "platform" and more of a conversation with others. If I wouldn't say something face to face in a particular way, neither would I online. If that irritates you, I am sorry.
As for supporting Israel, when I read the vitriol towards anyone who does, and listen to what they think Christian Zionists stand for, these issues are the ones that make people stop listening and start shouting.
I set up this thread with the intention of highlighting the perspective genuinely held by a writer
@DesertRose had cited. There is a thread elsewhere on this forum that asks what you imagine people might look like. To the people themselves, the gap might appear amusing!
In the same way, the gap between what the majority of this forum thinks both about Israel and Christian Zionists, and the reality, is very wide. Sometimes doing the opposite of what someone expects makes them listen to the real issues and helps prevent us from treating others (and being treated) as mere puppets.
The treatment of this Muslim woman in Israel was an interesting example.
As far as Jerusalem being the legitimate Capitol of Israel, this short historical round-up will give you some idea as to my beliefs about the modern state.
When you look at world events, this is where I believe we are right now.
