Brent Leatherwood -- While many choose to justify hate, nearly 13 million members of the largest Protestant denomination in the U.S. — the Southern Baptist Convention — remain unwavering in their support for Israel.
This steadfast alliance is rooted in shared democratic and moral values. Former U.S. President Ronald Reagan once said, “Though separated by distance, America and Israel are neighbors in spirit — united by democracy and the rule of law.” He praised Israel as a nation that has fought harder than any to survive and thrive in freedom.
That struggle continues today, as Israel faces brutal, antisemitic enemies. In this context, the support of Southern Baptists has been especially strong. For decades, they have condemned antisemitism and backed Israel’s sovereignty. In 1978, the SBC officially recognized Israel’s commitment to religious freedom — a principle shared by both nations since their founding.
After the October 7, 2023 massacre, the SBC’s Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) led the drafting of an evangelical declaration supporting Israel’s right to defend itself. Top evangelical leaders across the U.S. signed it. Later, in October 2024, SBC President Clint Pressley and ERLC leadership sent letters to Congress and President Biden reaffirming their support for Israel and the Jewish people.