Conservative commentator Michael Knowles is making waves in Christian circles after explaining why he rejects Christian Zionism, just as church leaders in Jerusalem issued a scathing rebuke of the movement they claim is harming Christian unity in the Holy Land.
Over the weekend, the Patriarchs and Heads of Churches in Jerusalem released a bombshell statement condemning Christian Zionism and other "damaging ideologies" that they say "mislead the public, sow confusion, and harm the unity of our flock."
The timing couldn't be more significant as Knowles, host of "The Michael Knowles Show" on The Daily Wire, has been facing criticism from some conservatives for his nuanced position on Israel that breaks from typical evangelical support.
Not Anti-Israel, But Anti-Nationalist Theology
"You don't have to support the nation-state of Israel to be a good Christian," Knowles explained, drawing a crucial distinction that many Americans miss. His position isn't about abandoning Israel as an ally, but rather rejecting the theological claim that modern Israel has special biblical significance.
This puts Knowles at odds with many evangelical Christians who believe supporting Israel is a religious mandate. But the conservative host argues this conflates political support with theological doctrine.
"There's a difference between supporting Israel as a strategic ally and believing God has given them a divine mandate to the land based on Old Testament promises," a source familiar with Knowles' position explained.
The Jerusalem church leaders seem to agree, stating that Christian Zionism undermines the authority of indigenous Christian communities who have maintained a presence in the Holy Land for centuries.
A Growing Divide
This theological debate is creating fascinating fault lines in conservative circles. While President Trump maintains strong support for Israel as America's key Middle East ally, some traditional Christians are questioning whether evangelical Zionism has gone too far.
Patriots need to ask themselves: Can you support Israel politically while disagreeing with Christian Zionist theology? Knowles seems to think so – and he's not backing down from the conversation.