WHEREAS, The Jewish people were without a homeland from the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, dispersed throughout the world yet retaining their unique and biblical heritage; and
WHEREAS, During this time, Jews were severely and routinely persecuted and at times faced the threat of total extermination; and
WHEREAS, On May 14, 1948, the state of Israel was created, becoming the only majority Jewish state in the world; and
WHEREAS, The state of Israel was immediately recognized by the United States of America by President Harry S. Truman; and
WHEREAS, In spite of great opposition during these six decades, the state of Israel has recently observed its 60th anniversary as a sovereign nation; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the messengers to the Southern Baptist Convention meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana, June 10-11, 2008, rejoice with the state of Israel in this milestone achievement; and be it further
RESOLVED, That we join in prayer for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6-7), calling upon world leaders to renounce the growing tide of anti-Semitism; and be it finally
RESOLVED, That Southern Baptists express our appreciation and pledge our prayers for Israel, the birthplace of our Lord and a bastion of democracy in the Middle East.