For Catholics in Hong Kong, the Holy Land is more than a distant land; it is the living cradle of our faith. It is there that Christ revealed the very heart of God—not through domination or force, but through humility, sacrifice, and love. Yet as violence intensifies in the Middle East, a troubling current within parts of the Christian world calls for careful discernment: the rise of a damaging ideology, often described as “Christian Zionism,” which risks reshaping the gospel into a justification for geopolitical aims.
At the heart of Christian Zionism is “dispensationalism”—a theology popularised by Western media and political circles. It views modern geopolitical conflicts as the literal fulfilment of apocalyptic prophecy. By fixating on Old Testament narratives of conquest, proponents of this ideology prioritise territorial expansion over the New Covenant of mercy. When scripture is read in isolation—without its fulfilment in Christ—it loses its meaning. The danger lies in elevating narratives of land and conquest above the gospel’s enduring message of mercy, reconciliation, and universal salvation.
In the Gospel of John, Christ declares, “My kingdom is not of this world.” His mission is not secured through territory or political influence, but through the transformation of hearts. Similarly, the Gospel of Matthew calls believers to love their enemies—a command that leaves no room for sanctifying wars. The Cross itself stands as the ultimate rejection of violence, revealing a path of redemptive suffering and self-giving love instead.
St. Paul reminds us clearly: “There is neither Jew nor Greek… for you are all one in Christ Jesus” [Galatians 3:28]. To suggest that one ethnic group holds a divine right to displace another is to ignore the universalism of Christ’s salvation.
Pope Leo XIV has echoed this concern, warning against invoking God to justify “choices of death.” His words remind us that Christ cannot be claimed in the service of violence or domination. Such clarity is vital in an age when religious language can be easily co-opted for political ends.
Today, we are challenged to ensure that our faith remains rooted in the gospel, not shaped by ideology. We are equally called not to remain silent when interpretations of faith contribute—directly or indirectly—to suffering and injustice.
Our response must begin with prayer—for all who bear the wounds of conflict, and for leaders entrusted with the sacred responsibility of peace. Scripture should be interpreted through the lens of Christ and the living tradition of the Church. It must also manifest in solidarity, particularly with our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land, whose steadfast perseverance continues to testify to hope.
In a world threatened by war, Jesus in the scripture calls us to reclaim the primacy of the Cross over every banner of power. The only war a Christian should fight is the war against the devil and his lies. “Let us put on the armour of Christ.” This stirring call echoes St. Paul’s words in Ephesians 6:11: “Put on the armour of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil.” jose, CMF
