Subject: Salvation for the Gentiles |
Bible Note: Let me bring the following to the table. I don't have a lot of time so you will have to look up the scriptures for yourself by searching these characters of the bible. Abraham - God told Abraham in you all the nations of the earth will be blessed. By looking at this one statement we have drawn our conclusion that He was speaking about Christ Jesus. We know there is only one name that was given through which men may be saved according to Peter and that was Jesus. Salvation therefore came through Abraham's righteous line because of the promise God made to Abraham. What is this blessing? We draw this conclusion; that men may be saved, have eternal life through Jesus. Now the question is; is He talking to just the 12 tribes of Israel or is He including all people of the earth? From Revelation 7:9 we draw the conclusion that he was speaking of all mankind as we see it was all tribes, peoples, and tongues in verse 9 before the throne. Abraham had a miracle son at an old age with his elderly wife. The son's name was Isaac, the son of promise. Follow Isaac's line down and it takes you to David. In the book of Ruth we see Ruth was a gentile so this would enable Jesus to be the kinsman redeemer for the gentiles as well as the jews. I believe Mary's line also came through Abraham. So we come full circle. Now what does the verse mean to Abraham; in you all the nations of the earth will be blessed mean? Is this promise only to the 12 tribes of Israel? First the blessing means life for those who believe (have saving faith) in Christ Jesus. Second, the blessing is for every tribe, nation and tongue of the earth. So Abraham and his descendants looked forward to the cross. I believe my friend gave you the Isaiah passage of the suffering servant which is a picture of the cross. Maybe some of the others can elaborate on any questions you may have. Merry Christmas! |