October 1992 Personal Letter

Shalom, Dear Friend,

In August, a news release informed the world of the discovery of the “tomb of the priest who condemned Jesus.” This news was reported in newspapers and broadcast on all the networks.

Workers were building a tayelet, a beautiful stone walkway, on a ridge outside of Jerusalem when they accidentally uncovered the burial cave of the Caiaphas family. This discovery was made two years ago, but researchers waited until now to make the announcement, wanting to be assured of the accuracy of the claim.

And what an exciting announcement it was! As you know, Caiaphas was the Jewish high priest who presided at the trial of Jesus and released him to the Romans to be crucified.

To think that fifty years ago, the influence of German theologians had biblical scholars searching for the historical Jesus. You and I know that Jesus Christ, Messiah, is historical. He’s real because He lived on earth and now lives within our hearts! But it’s still exciting when the secular world is allowed by God to confirm what we already have experienced and know to be true.

Very few of the historical personalities of the Old and New Testaments have been a part of any archaeological find. The Biblical Archaeological Review stated that from the second century B.C. to the second century A.D. only five names could be listed — two rulers and three priestly families — but none have the stature and importance of Caiaphas. I said in our September Levitt Letter, “This is a momentous discovery in terms of its corroboration of the Gospels. It also announces the end of the age. ‘Shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased’ (Daniel 12:4). This verse especially refers to spiritual knowledge and can be cited in regard to the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls and other recent discoveries. It’s as if the Lord is hinting that modern Israel bears watching!”

Week after week, I encourage you to be an “Israel watcher.’’ This is why I teach, write and speak about God’s plan for the ages — and why I lead tours to Israel. It’s impossible for me to adequately explain how important it is for you to grow in the knowledge and admonition of Jesus Christ AND in the understanding and knowledge of this unique people, nation and Land — Israel.

Through the study of Scripture, it’s my conviction that nothing else in biblical prophecy has to happen before the Rapture of His Church. Titus 2:3 exhorts us to be constantly “looking for that blessed hope.” The discovery of the tomb of Caiaphas is a remarkable witness to the world as many newspapers carried the news release as a front page feature.

And, someday soon — sooner than we may realize — these same newspapers will announce a climatic event in history. I can see the headline — VAST SEGMENTS OF WORLD’S POPULATION MISSING!

Someday, the media will report the pre-tribulation Rapture of all believers and the establishment of a thousand-year kingdom on earth, the Millennium. A serious “Israel watcher” never stops learning about the Jewish people, their customs, culture, history, Land and God’s immutable covenant with His people. It’s then we get a “feel” for what God is doing today and understand the reasons for current events as we look for that “blessed hope.”

Our updated catalog of ministry materials has just been mailed and should arrive at your home or office in a few days. It includes a multitude of fine study resources that will help you become a more effective “Israel watcher.” Become familiar with the resources in our catalog and plan to order from time to time.

As you read this letter, I’m in Israel leading our “Three Feast Tour” of the Holy Land. I wish you could be with us! Maybe “next year” — or what about December? I’m open to taking a group to Israel for a special “Hanukkah/Christmas Tour.” December in the Holy Land is so incredible. As you consider such a trip with me, remember there are significant savings of hundreds of dollars because December is considered an “off season” for travel. I’m ready if you, and enough others, are interested. Let me know of your interest with a phone call or the return of the enclosed card.

And because of the financial support we’ve received the past two months, we’re filming new footage for our television series, Israel: By Divine Right. Thank you for providing the finances to make it possible to film while I’m here in the Holy Land.

We need additional funding for the post production work that will be necessary when I return to Dallas. We trust the Lord to provide these funds as friends like you help us with our October expenses and this special project. It is so important to get this series, Israel: By Divine Right before the public!

In closing, let me express my appreciation for the kind response to my editorials about the candidates, our government and other political issues. I’m so focused on God’s promise to Israel and His plan for end times, I interpret everything from this viewpoint. I get a little strong at times, don’t I? In response to my bold, honest comments, we’ve had many calls and letters encouraging me — “no apology necessary, Zola.”

The presidential campaign is heating up as we approach November. As a student of the Word, my most important spiritual consideration of the candidates is “How will America treat Israel in the future?” I am deferring my choice of candidates until I clearly have that answer.

Your Messenger,

P.S. As you send your financial support and/or order for resources, please complete the questions on the back of the response card. Give us the station or network over which you view Zola Levitt Presents.