Why is Jerusalem important to Christians?

Christians and Jews believe that Jerusalem and Israel have played an essential role in the past and will play a pivotal prophetic role in the future. 

Christians hold Israel in high regard because they recognize that God promised the land to Abraham's descendants (physical and spiritual). In the New Testament book of Galatians, the Apostle Paul notes that followers of Christ are the spiritual descendants of Abraham, grafted into the covenant of blessing. 

Why is Jerusalem important to Christianity?

Christians view Jerusalem as the home of the mysterious anointed figure, Melchizedek, who blessed Abraham in Genesis 14. Melchizedek was a king and type figure who foreshadowed the ministry of Jesus. Thus, the city of Jerusalem was held in high esteem by followers of God several thousand years before the birth of Christ.

Jerusalem became known as the City of David in approximately 1000 B.C. 

David made Jerusalem the center for spiritual and government activity in Israel. A few decades later, Solomon established the magnificent first Temple in Jerusalem.

Did Christianity begin in Jerusalem?

Jesus' three-year earthly ministry began about 1000 years after David made Jerusalem the base for religion and government in Israel. Jesus spent much time in Jerusalem, debating religious leaders, teaching, and ministering to those in need. In about 30 A.D., Roman and Jewish authorities arrested Jesus and put him on trial in Jerusalem. There Jesus was crucified. On the third day, Jesus rose from the grave and, over the following weeks, appeared to more than 500 people (1 Corinthians 15:1-6). 

Fifty days after Jesus was crucified, on the Jewish feast of Pentecost, God gave the Holy Spirit to the disciples, who Jesus told to wait in Jerusalem for the gift of God. The giving of the Holy Spirit marks the beginning of the New Testament Church.

Is Jerusalem considered a holy city in Christianity?

Christians hold Jerusalem in high esteem. Christians recognize the city as the location of the resurrection and birthplace of the New Testament Church (Acts 2). Jerusalem was the base for the early New Testament Church until shortly before the destruction of the Temple in 70 A.D. 

Christians also believe Jerusalem will be the location of Jesus' return at the "second coming" and the base for establishing a new kingdom (often referred to as the Millennial Reign of Christ).  

Should Christians support Jerusalem and Israel?

Most Arab nations do not recognize Israel's right to exist and contend that the city of Jerusalem, including the famed Temple Mount, belongs under Muslim control. Several nations openly call for the destruction of Israel. The United Nations has also proved hostile to Israel—officially reprimanding Israel more times in the last 40 years than all other nations combined. Few countries stand with Israel—should Christians? 

When considering if it is proper to support Israel, the most important consideration is: What does the Bible say? Scripture notes that every Christian should stand with Israel. A few verses follow:

•       God will bless those who bless Israel (Genesis 12:3). "And I will bless them that bless thee and curse him that curseth thee; and in thee shall all nations of the earth be blessed." Those who move against Israel will suffer harm (Zechariah 12:2-3). "I am going to make Jerusalem a cup that sends all the surrounding peoples reeling…I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock for all the nations. All who try to move it will injure themselves."  
•       God will prosper those who support Israel (Psalm 122:6). "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; they shall prosper that love thee." 
•       God has a special love and compassion for Israel (Hosea 11:8-9). "How can I give you up? How can I hand you over, Israel? All my compassion is aroused…For I am God…" 

The adage is true, "The friend of Israel is the friend of God."