The difficulties between evangelical Christians and Jews arising over Mel Gibson's film The Passion is receiving more media attention. Evangelical Christians, but especially Christian Zionists, have been big supporters of Israel over the years - but only in the interest of furthering their own theological agenda. Jews have generally accepted this support, but now they are wondering if it is really worth it.

CNN reports:

"You don't achieve interfaith relationships by being tolerant of anti-Semitism," [Abraham Foxman, national director of the Anti-Defamation League] said. "My understanding has always been that evangelical support of Israel is out of goodwill, good faith and is not conditioned as a quid pro quo on any issue." ... Foxman said he has already received calls from Jews who had opposed working with evangelicals.

Perhaps there isn't technically a quid pro quo, but there is surely the attitude that Judaism is an inferior faith to evangelical Christianity and, therefore, Jews should remain cognizant of that fact in their relationship with Christians. This means accepting a subordinate status - accepting the aid of Christians without question, not speaking up when there appears to be Antisemitism within Christian ranks, etc. Failing to know their place may not mean that Jews will stop receiving support, but that support might not arrive so quickly and with a smile anymore.

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• Antisemitism
• Evangelicalism
• Fundamentalism
• Religious Right