Get In, Get Out
Checking in on my Zionist friends in the Summer of Hate
BY: DAMIAN EISNER
Recently, I was reminded of a poignant message from Donald Trump to Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the war against Hamas in Gaza. Several months ago, he told the Prime Minister, “Get in, get out, get what you must do done. The longer you stay, the more the world will hate you.”
Regardless of one’s feelings about Trump, his words have resonated, particularly as we find ourselves in the ninth month of conflict, with Israeli men, women, and children still being held captive in Hamas’ network of terror tunnels. Anti-Israel sentiment and anti-Semitism have indeed reached unprecedented levels worldwide. This was evident even in the recent rescue of four Israeli hostages, including Noa Argamani, who was last seen crying on the back of a terrorist-driven motorcycle as she was kidnapped on October 7. Instead of celebrating and rejoicing at their return, the rescue operation was met with international outrage due to civilian casualties that occurred as the IDF was forced to enter residential buildings, where the captives were held—by civilians.
Fighting Back
Since the war began, our staff at First Fruits of Zion, especially our colleagues in Israel, have been dedicated to countering the rising tide of hatred through Messiah Online articles, our HaYesod Bible study, our Torah Club teachings, videos and lectures, and episodes of Messiah Podcast. That’s how we fight back. That’s how we “get in, get out, and get what we must do done.”
We receive a lot of support from the pro-Israel audience that regularly engages with our material, but we have not escaped criticism. In the current climate of anti-Israel and anti-Jewish rhetoric, a stand for the State of Israel’s right to defend her land and her people invites attack from the far left, the far right, and a big chunk of the middle. As Kingdom Zionists working for an organization called First Fruits of Zion, we attract plenty of anti-Zionist sentiment. (You should see the thoughtful comments we garner on our social media feeds.)
The anti-Jewish pushback we receive goes with the theological territory we are trying to defend. However, as I read a recent caustic criticism (and just as quickly dismissed it), I stopped for a moment and wondered: “How often is this happening to FFOZ Friends, Torah Club Members, and others who engage with our materials?”
Shelter from the Storm
Negativity and hatred toward Israel are certainly on the rise. But I would be remiss if I didn’t recognize the fact that there is a wholesome place where much good is being done to counteract it. I’ve had the privilege of interacting with many of our worldwide Torah Club Leaders—some of the most dedicated supporters of Israel and the Jewish people I’ve ever encountered. They don’t just hold their pro-Israel convictions privately; they actively share them in their communities. Their clubs bring together like-minded believers who support Israel and the Jewish people. It’s not just about the Jewish roots of Christianity. They create a safe place for believers who love and support the Jewish people. As a Jewish disciple of Yeshua, I know just how important it is to have that kind of support.
The explosion of anti-Israel sentiment makes me wonder how Torah Club Leaders are doing and how their Torah Clubs are faring.
Are You OK? What about you?
Have you faced opposition or had heated conversations in your places of worship or community gatherings? Have you noticed a shift in support for Israel among groups that once stood firmly by its side? Have you felt the rising tide of anti-Israel sentiment in your interactions? Have you experienced resistance or even hostility when discussing Israel’s importance in God’s plan for redemption, the Jewish foundations of Christianity, and the ongoing relevance of the Hebrew Scriptures?
I’d love to hear from you, our broader community of supporters and those committed to the cause of Israel and the Jewish people. Your voice is powerful, and your story matters. I invite you to share your experiences with us. Let me know how you navigate these challenging conversations. Do you feel prepared to address the misinformation and biased narratives presented on social media and through mainstream media? What strategies have you found effective in shifting opinions and fostering a more balanced understanding of Israel’s role in the world? Have the resources and articles from First Fruits of Zion equipped you with the knowledge and arguments needed to counteract these biases effectively?
Let us know your thoughts and experiences. Your feedback will help us continue to support and equip you with everything you need to get in, get out, and get what you must do done.
Am Yisrael Chai! The people of Israel live and endure.
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If you are interested in knowing more about the FFOZ Torah Club, please feel fee to contact me – hraysman@gmail.com. Our group meets together online every Wednesday evening from 19h00 – 21h00. You are welcome to join in for two free sessions. After these free sessions, registration is required.
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