The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has once again reaffirmed its role as a crucial hub for global dialogue by hosting an international conference at the baptismal site of Jesus on the east bank of the Jordan River. The event, which brought together theologians, religious leaders, and academics from 17 countries, focused on the effects of Christian Zionism on Christians in the Middle East.
Daoud Kuttab
Under the patronage of Prince Ghazi bin Mohammed, Senior Advisor to Jhe King for Religious and Cultural Affairs, the conference titled “International Consultation on Understanding Christian Zionism and Its Effects on Christians in the Middle East” provided a platform for experts to discuss the intersection of theology, history, and politics in shaping religious narratives and policies.
“Christian Zionism is not limited to a specific group, such as evangelicals, or a specific region, such as the United States. Its danger lies in the fact that it is supported by many across most countries of the world,” stated Rev. Dr. Mitri Al-Rahab, founder and president of Dar al-Kalima University in Bethlehem. He emphasized the significance of the conference, particularly its Hashemite sponsorship and its focus on the impact of Christian Zionism on Middle Eastern Christians.
The conference featured Palestinian speakers, including Dr. Jack Sara, President of the Bethlehem Bible College, who spoke on the challenges of being an evangelical Palestinian Christian. “The term evangelical has been marred because of the association of evangelicals with Israeli war criminals,” he noted, calling Christian Zionism “a heretical replacement theology that replaced Jesus with Israel.”
Retired Lutheran Bishop Munib Younan described Christian Zionism as a “heresy,” criticizing those who politicize the Bible to justify occupation and violence. “This is the first time we as Christians speak in a unified and clear manner in rejecting these attempts,” he said, urging Western churches to take a stand against these teachings.
The event also included a keynote presentation by Rev. Dr. Miguel A. De La Torre, Professor of Social Ethics and Latinx Studies at the Iliff School of Theology in Denver. He highlighted the dangers of using religious texts to justify oppression, warning that “nothing is more dangerous to peace and justice than a believer holding a Bible convinced they are ordained to do the will of God.”
De La Torre reflected on his journey from being a Christian Zionist to embracing a justice-driven faith, critiquing the rise of white Christian nationalism and its ties to Christian Zionism. He emphasized the need for allies to confront complicity in systems of oppression, advocating for targeting the “moveable middle” in efforts to challenge deeply entrenched beliefs and foster solidarity with marginalized communities. Addressing Christian leaders in the Middle East, he advised, “As you think of liberative strategies, please remember that when dealing with the U.S. Christian Zionists, you are dealing with deeply held theological beliefs, positions difficult — but not impossible — to change. Ask us allies not to speak for you, but to speak about our complicity with your oppression.”
Photo credit Daoud Kuttab
During the opening session, Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem and All Palestine emphasized that Christian Zionism’s endorsement of occupation and violence contradicts true Christianity, noting that Jesus never preached violence.
Prince Ghazi led participants on a tour of the baptismal site, underscoring its significance as a Christian pilgrimage destination and highlighting Jordan’s efforts to protect Christian heritage. Delegates also visited Petra, including its recently discovered ancient churches, further cementing Jordan’s role as a custodian of religious history.
The conference explored historical, political, and theological aspects of Christian Zionism, including its links to colonialism, Islamophobia, and global movements promoting hate speech. Key priorities that emerged from the discussions included:
- Countering the use of religion to justify occupation and aggression
- Raising awareness among Christians about their history and roots in the region
- Building international alliances to combat hate speech and division
Dr. Robert Smith noted the growing visibility of Christian Zionist influence in Western political circles, stating: “In previous administrations, their Zionism was more hidden. Now, the cover has been lifted.”
As the conference concluded, speakers reinforced the importance of amplifying the voices of Middle Eastern Christians rather than merely reporting on their circumstances from afar. The event’s Hashemite sponsorship and its location in Jordan — known for its commitment to interfaith dialogue and regional stability — added credibility and urgency to the discussions, further positioning Jordan as a beacon of diplomacy and progress in an increasingly complex global landscape.
Daoud Kuttab is a Palestinian journalist and publisher of Milhilard.org, a website dedicated to Christians in Jordan and Palestine.
