Christian Zionism In The News

John Hagee and the Motives that Drive Christian Zionism

August 5, 2022

In order to understand Christian Zionism, it is necessary to know what theological ideas drive its proponents. For decades Christian Zionists have cited the literal application of biblical prophecy, missionary efforts to convert Jews, or American-Israeli cultural affinity. For the last twenty years, however, John Hagee, the founder of Christians United for Israel (CUFI), has evolved in his teaching and now concentrates on the prosperity gospel. Even though some Christian Zionists have rejected the crass materialism of that teaching, Hagee—like many others today—emphasizes the benefits that he says will come to those who seek to “bless Israel.”

This article, written by Daniel G. Hummel and posted at www.rightingamerica.net, illustrates how the motives for Christian Zionism can evolve over time. Hummel works at Upper House, a Christian study center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His extensive analysis of Christian Zionism since 1948 can be found in Covenant Brothers: Evangelicals, Jews, and U.S.-Israeli Relations (University of Pennsylvania Press, 2019).

To view Hummel’s article (click here): Daniel Hummel article on evolution of Christian Zionism.