It is a fundamental tenet of dispensational premillennialism that the Jews were "eternally" granted Palestine as their land. Much of the trouble in the Middle-East today revolves around this notion. But the idea is erroneous in that: (a) it refuses to acknowledge that the gift of the Promise Land to Israel was conditional (Josh. 23:15-16); and, (b) it ignores the redemptive design of the selection of Palestine as a home for the Jews. It is to this latter point that we presently direct attention.
Jehovah led Abraham from Chaldea and instructed him to go into a land "that I will show thee" (Acts 7:3; Gen. 12:1). Thus did the patriarch settle in Canaan. But why, of all places on earth, this particular spot? Several reasons may be suggested.
Canaan was geographically isolated from her neighbors. To the north are high mountain ranges; great blistering deserts border on the east and south; and, the Mediterranean Sea lies to the west. Hence, when the Israelites came from Egypt and drove out most of the pagan tribes (whose cup of iniquity was full - Gen. 15:16), they were able to live for many years relatively free of the pollution of heathenism and thus preserve their religion in anticipation of the coming Messiah.
Palestine was a country of unusual productivity - a land flowing with milk and honey. The Hebrews were therefore relieved of much of the arduous labor characteristic of neighboring nations. This, of course, allowed them to utilize more time in the development of their faith beyond the superficial ritualism of paganism, and thus to make an impact upon those with whom they came in contact.
Major trade routes connecting Europe, Asia Minor, and the East with Egypt when through Canaan. This permitted the leavening influences of Hebrew monotheism, with its prophecies of the Christ, to infiltrate these ancient empires. Palestine was one of the most influential spots in the antique world! Canaan was one of the most versatile places on earth. E. A. Hoyt wrote: "It contains all the flora, fauna, formations, and climates known to the earth's surface." How very fitting, therefore, that the Bible - so very filled with the imagery of the land - should go forth from this country, being thus adapted to accommodate universal human experience and understanding.
Now all of the foregoing reasons for the selection of Palestine as a dwelling place for the Jews have either to do with: (a) the first advent of our Lord; or, (b) the unfolding of the revelation regarding Him. It is clear that Canaan was chosen with a redemptive purpose in mind. Since, however, Christ has come, and His redemptive work was accomplished at the cross; and, as the revelation of our Savior and His work has been completely and finally made known in the New Testament record, it is obvious that Palestine no longer plays any role in the plan of Jehovah. Let sober-minded people, therefore, not be swept away by pseudo-prophets who predict a restoration of Palestine to the Jews.
-Gospel Advocate, August 12, 1982