Why am I supportive of God's people—the Jews? Well, first of all, because they are "loved" by the Lord, even in their unsaved state. Paul writes: "From the standpoint of the gospel [the Jews] are enemies for your sake, but from the standpoint of God's election they are loved [by Him] for the sake of the [ancient] fathers" (Rom. 11:28). This is motivation enough for us to also care for the Jews, but there is more.
God uses means in order to reach His ends. He places things and people before us for His purposes. Having gone to Israel twenty-three times, and having made about ten documentary films on prophecy and the Holy Land, I have a great concern for Israel and what the Lord is doing with His folks.
Now to my point.
When I was in Junior High School, and High School, my best Pal was Jerry Cohn, a Jew. We did everything together. He and my other close buddy, Jerry Wisely, did things together. I just recently ran into Wisely again, and it is great to go back to the good old days and have good memories. I've tried to find Jerry Cohn, but just can't seem to.
I did not fully realize his role in my life, nor did I completely grasp his Jewishness, and the fact that he was part of the chosen people! But I have a feeling that God used our friendship to draw me closer to the people of God. No, I failed to witness to him as I should have, but I would love to start over again and do just that!
Anyway, my point: God plants stepping stones in our lives along the way. He knows what He is doing, and He does all things for a purpose. I am sure our friendship plays a role in my teaching about the Jewish people, and, my love of biblical prophecy. —Dr. Mal Couch
