Allegorizing Israel - J.C. Ryle

Here's a very good quote from J.C. Ryle, protesting against the habit of some Christians to allegorize Old Testament prophecies and plain sayings concerning the future history of the nation of Israel.

“What I protest against is the habit of allegorizing plain sayings of the Word of God concerning the future history of the nation of Israel and explaining away the fullness of their contents in order to accomodate them to the gentile church.”

Ryle held to premillennialism and to a distinction between Israel and the Church, strongly criticizing the views that would seek to allegorize the Scriptures to say that the Church is the 'new Israel' or that this present age is the kingdom of Christ (amillennialism).

I highly recommend reading Ryle's book 'Coming Events and Present Duties', especially the chapter 'Scattered Israel to be Gathered' for a more detailed exposition on the matter.

The book is available for free online:
http://futureisraelministries.org/j_c_ryle.html

Is the Church Israel?

Jim McClarty - Is the Church Israel? (Free eBook)

"An examination of Replacement Theology, its hermeneutics and interpretations. The question of Israel's relationship to the New Covenant Church has been the subject of speculation and debate for centuries. But, the answer to that question has surprising, and far-reaching implications. In this book, Jim attempts to unravel the debate and direct us back to the clear words of Scripture. He addresses the "proof texts" used by Replacement Theologians and brings the subject matter back down to earth."
www.salvationbygrace.org