The Gentiles in the Psalms
the Gentiles. So why do the Jewish leaders seem to ignore these commands of God? Why do the apostles still have problems with Jew-Gentile relationships in the New Testament? Were the Psalms, alone, unclear on this subject? They are not referred to at the councils of Jerusalem regarding the Gentiles and their role in God's kingdom. So can the Jews be forgiven because of ignorance?
That the Jews did not know of God's will to save the Gentiles is not very valid. The Jews knew very well the accounts of Melchizadek, Job, Ruth, the Kenites and Rahab. Many of the Israelites married Canaanites and undoubtedly witnessed to them God's gracious love. Let us not overlook an important aspect of Paul's mission journeys. He preached first at the synagogues. At the synagogues were proselytes--Gentiles who had accepted and believed God's promise of the Messiah. The wise men from the East also had a knowledge given them concerning a special Jewish king whom they went to see. In Israel's everyday service to God (those who truly served God), we see that the evangelical spirit is alive. Where a spirit of elitism and aloofness set in ("We are sons of Abraham"), we see that there is a falling away from proclaiming, sharing and ultimately following God's word.
If there is a warning in the Psalms, it is this: we too can receive God's judgment as the Gentiles did. But God does not leave us hopelessly lost. He also comforts us with the fact that his son died for all. all nations are to fear and worship the name of God. And like Israel, our commission is to share that Good News with everyone. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.
Latest Articles