Gentiles: What did Jesus say about Gentiles

Jesus spoke about Gentiles in various contexts, highlighting both the inclusive nature of His message and the plan for Gentile inclusion in the promises of God. Here are relevant Bible verses and three main takeaways from Jesus’ teachings and actions regarding Gentiles:

1. Gentiles and the Gospel: In Ephesians 3:6, Paul, reflecting on Jesus’ teachings and the revelation given to him, states, “This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel” . This underscores the breaking down of the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles, uniting them in Christ.
2. Inclusion of Gentiles: Acts 10:34-35 records Peter’s realization, prompted by his encounter with Cornelius, a Gentile, “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him” . This was a significant shift from the Jewish exclusivity of God’s covenant to include Gentiles in God’s plan for salvation.
3. Salvation to the Ends of the Earth: Acts 13:47 quotes the Lord’s command, “I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.” This reflects Jesus’ great commission to preach the gospel to all nations, signaling that the salvation through Jesus Christ was not limited to the Jewish people but extended to all humanity .

Three Main Takeaways:

1. Universal Scope of Salvation: Jesus’ message and the apostolic teaching make it clear that salvation is available to all people, regardless of ethnic or cultural background. The gospel transcends racial and national boundaries, offering hope and new life to everyone who believes.
2. Breaking Down Barriers: Jesus’ approach to the Gentiles and the subsequent inclusion of Gentiles into the early Christian community demonstrate God’s desire to break down barriers of division. This challenges believers to overcome prejudice and embrace unity in diversity within the body of Christ.
3. Missionary Call to All Nations: The inclusion of Gentiles into God’s redemptive plan underscores the Christian mission to evangelize every people group on earth. Believers are called to continue Jesus’ mission, spreading the good news of salvation through Him to the ends of the earth, making disciples of all nations.