Four decades after the Six-Day War reunited Jerusalem, some in Israel still fondly call this historic city the "eternal, undivided capital." But others are now wondering if it is inevitable that the city will become politically divided yet again. One right-winger-turned-peace-activist even said that "we have to divide Jerusalem. We have to get rid of some of our syndromes; some of our dreams."

Jerusalem is not a popular place to live. It is Israel's poorest city economically. Most Israelis prefer residing in Tel Aviv, Haifa and other places along Israel's high-tech corridor. Current demographics and even its geography now trouble the ancient capital of King David.

Some 300,000 Jews have left Jerusalem since the Six-Day War. More than 17,000 left in 2006, offset somewhat by nearly 11,000 moving into the city. Demographers have estimated that the ratio of Jews to Arabs in the city will be 50-50 within 20 years. A long barrier both divides and surrounds Jerusalem. The network of checkpoints frustrates both Arabs and Jews. The city itself is often full of religious tension and strife. Its current plight reflects the biblical description of its spiritual condition in Revelation 11:8.

Yet in spite of all the past, present and future sufferings of this great city, we should never forget the sure hope behind these inspired words of King David: "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem" (Psalm 122:6). They echo down its 3,000-year history. It is certain that David's prayer will be answered when Jesus Christ returns to make this great city the capital of the world. From there He will reign over all nations in a world of peace, purpose and plenty.

To understand Jerusalem's historic role, request or download our free booklet The Middle East in Bible Prophecy. (Source: Newsweek, June 4, 2007.)