The Ancient Witnesses

Chapter 7: The Last Times • 245

Will All Israel Be Saved? Aside from an occasional “amen” from one of the witnesses, the preceding comments on salvation by faith through grace were made without interruption. But the calm was disturbed when Cesar asked a question. “What about the Jews who don’t confess Christ, what will happen to them?” he asked. “Faith in Christ is the only basis of salvation, as the witnesses have described,” replied Mentor. “And without faith it is impossible to please God!” called another witness, out of turn. Several “amens” rang out in agreement. “God hasn’t rejected his own people—the Jews—has he?” objected Cesar, “Doesn’t the Apostle say that all Israel will be saved?” 34 Before Mentor could reply, the witnesses were up on their feet, clamoring to be recognized. Other witnesses then entered the Crux uninvited, arguing with one another in the passageways as the commotion grew louder and as Mentor tried in vain to restore order. “What’s this all about?” Joseph called to Cesar. “Replacement theology,” he replied. “What’s that?” asked Joseph “Ask Ari,” said Cesar, “he should know.” It was difficult to hear in the midst of the uproar, let alone think clearly. But arguments like these were common place in the neighborhood I grew up in. The claim that the Church had replaced Israel was, as my father would have said, just one more way the Christians have of disrespecting the Chosen. Listening to the

34 Rom. 11:26.