How do we know replacement theology is a misunderstanding?

The idea that the church has replaced Israel is often labeled as replacement theology, but this view fails to recognize the biblical teaching that the church is the fulfillment of what Israel symbolized. Israel was a typological representation of God's people, whereas the church, comprising both Jews and Gentiles, is the actual realization of God's plan for salvation. The New Testament clarifies that those who believe in Christ, regardless of their ethnic background, constitute the true Israel. Therefore, rather than replacing Israel, the church fulfills Israel's role as the community of God's elect, as captured beautifully in Romans 11:26-27.