Is this the last Christmas in Bethlehem? w/ Jason Jones
David Gornoski
Deep Dive
Why is this potentially the last Christmas for Christians in Bethlehem?
Christians in Bethlehem, along with other first-century Christian communities in the Middle East, are facing an existential crisis due to ongoing conflicts and ethnic cleansing, particularly in Gaza, Syria, and Iraq. The situation has escalated to the point where entire Christian communities are at risk of being eradicated.
What is the significance of Damascus in Christian history?
Damascus is the place where the term 'Christian' was first used to describe followers of Jesus. Before that, they were referred to as 'the followers' or 'the way.' This marks a pivotal moment in the early Christian church's identity.
What is the 'Last Christmas in Bethlehem' campaign?
The 'Last Christmas in Bethlehem' campaign is an initiative launched to raise awareness about the potential eradication of Christian communities in Bethlehem and other parts of the Middle East. It aims to highlight the dire situation and call for action to protect these communities.
What is the impact of the conflict in Gaza on Christians?
The conflict in Gaza has led to the destruction of churches, the killing of Christian women and children, and the starvation of Christian communities. The majority of casualties are children aged four to nine, and the situation has been described as ethnic cleansing.
What role does Trump play in addressing the crisis in the Middle East?
There is hope that Trump could intervene to stop the ongoing violence and ethnic cleansing in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza. His anti-war stance and previous actions against ISIS are seen as potential indicators that he might take decisive action.
What is the historical context of the Christian communities in the Middle East?
Christian communities in the Middle East, including those in Gaza, Syria, and Iraq, are some of the oldest in the world. They have faced centuries of persecution, but the current conflicts and ethnic cleansing pose an unprecedented threat to their survival.
What is the 'double tapping' tactic mentioned in the discussion?
Double tapping is a military tactic where a target is struck repeatedly, even after they are already dead or wounded. This brutal practice has been reported in the conflict in Gaza, particularly against children.
What is the Vulnerable People Project?
The Vulnerable People Project is an organization that works to rescue and support vulnerable populations, including Christians, Yazidis, and Muslims, in conflict zones like the Middle East. They provide aid, evacuate individuals, and advocate for their protection.
What is the significance of the petition on GazaChristians.com?
The petition on GazaChristians.com calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and aims to present this demand to President Trump when he takes office. It seeks to protect the Christian community in Gaza from further violence and destruction.
What is the impact of the conflict on IDF soldiers?
IDF soldiers are reportedly taking their own lives at a high rate due to the trauma of participating in mass human slaughter. They are haunted by their actions, and the psychological toll is expected to affect them for the rest of their lives.
- The possibility of the last Christmas in Bethlehem for Christians.
- The diminishing Christian population in the Middle East.
- The early Church's concern for persecuted Christians.
Shownotes Transcript