Plucking the Eagle's Wings

Plucking the Eagle's Wings

very influential Jewish families.

In 1988, Gideon was a personal tour guide for a well-known Jewish man and his new wife (whom we will leave nameless). The man was a producer for a major American television sitcom. He and Gideon argued about religion in America. The producer, an avid unbeliever, told Gideon that religion was the problem in America. He felt that if America could rid itself of conservative Christians, the United States would become a more tolerant nation. Gideon said that he had been in America and that he believed it was the people who honor God that made America great, not the Hollywood crowd! He continued by saying, "I travel to America and stay in the homes of Christian people who pray before their meals and work hard every day. It is faith in God that has made America great." After the bickering, Gideon offered to be replaced by another tour guide. The man replied, "I disagree with you but respect you for standing up to me." This conversation occurred around the time when Pat Robertson began his run for the presidency. In the conversation, the producer admitted that he was angered at Robertson's possibilities to influence the country. He said, "If I have to see to it myself, Robertson will never become President." This statement shocked Gideon. What the man implied was uncertain, but it was clear that he would use his influence in any way possible to stop Robertson because of his religious beliefs. Why Such Animosity? Why are many secular Jewish organizations so blatantly anti Christian in their expression? Why does the ACLU focus on lawsuits that attack the Bible, prayer, or Christian teachings? Rabbi Daniel Lapin, in his book America's Real War , gave his opinion as to why Jews are fearful of the Christian right. He wrote, "Jews, for the most part, feel threatened by three specters: Christian efforts to convert Jews, a Christian takeover of America, anti-Semitism by Christians, and recollections of past anti-Semitism on the part of churches." In addition, here are some of my personal conclusions as to why many Jews fear conservative Christians. These observations are based on personal encounters with Jews, especially those who live in Israel. Many Christians feel strongly that they are to carry out the great commission that Christ bestowed upon the church before His ascension forty days after He rose from the dead. He said, "Go ye therefore, and

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