This class explores the role of the Gentiles within God’s eschatological program, tracing their place from early human history through the Tribulation, the Millennial Kingdom, and into eternity, while maintaining a clear distinction between Israel, the Church, and the nations.
The discussion begins with the unity of humanity prior to Abraham, when all people shared one language and origin. Distinctions later emerge in Scripture between Jews, Gentiles (nations), and the Church of God. Prior to Pentecost, Gentiles did not possess covenantal promises comparable to Israel’s, though God made Himself accessible to those who genuinely sought Him. In the present age, Jew and Gentile alike are equally under sin and must be saved in the same way—through faith—while Israel’s national promises remain reserved for Israel alone.
The current era is characterized by Israel’s partial blindness and temporary setting aside, resulting in blessings flowing to the Gentile nations. This situation, however, does not nullify God’s promises to Israel, which will be fulfilled in the future. God is presently calling a people from among the Gentiles for His name, forming one new body in Christ, distinct from Israel and apart from the Mosaic Law, which Christ has already fulfilled.
Attention then shifts to the Tribulation period, during which Gentile nations experience the seal, trumpet, and bowl judgments. The rise of the man of lawlessness—a Gentile ruler empowered through a global religious system—is described, along with widespread economic control, enforced worship, and persecution. Many Gentiles suffer and die during this period, though some are saved through the proclamation of the gospel of the kingdom and their response to God’s messengers.
At the culmination of the Tribulation, Christ returns amid a global conflict often referred to as Armageddon, understood here as a campaign involving multiple interconnected wars. The Gentile nations are judged, their present world system is crushed, and unbelievers are cast into the lake of fire. Believing Gentiles, however, survive to enter the Millennial Kingdom.
During the Millennial Kingdom, Gentiles live on the renewed earth under Christ’s righteous rule. They enter the kingdom by faith, live long lives, repopulate the earth, and participate in a restored creation free from the curse. Righteous governance is administered by resurrected saints, while the nations are required to honor Christ’s rule, including participation in prescribed worship.
Finally, the teaching addresses the eternal state. Gentile believers dwell on the earth in resurrected bodies, while God dwells among humanity in an unhindered relationship. Together with Israel and the Church, the Gentiles exist eternally to the glory of God, expressing a proper understanding and acknowledgment of His character, authority, and redemptive work.
