The Grafting of Gentiles into Israel
1. The Grafting of Gentiles into Israel
In the New Testament, many believe that Gentiles were only allowed to be part of Israel through Jesus Christ, but this idea may stem from tradition rather than biblical truth. Scripture, particularly in the Old Testament, shows that non-Israelites (strangers or Gentiles) were already welcomed into the covenant with Israel. Exodus 12:49 and Leviticus 24:22 reveal that foreigners were expected to follow the same laws as native Israelites, even participating in religious observances like Passover and the Sabbath. This inclusive view is mirrored in the New Testament, such as in Galatians 3:28 and Romans 10:12-13, where both Jew and Gentile are equal in Christ Jesus. Therefore, the New Testament teachings about Gentiles being part of Israel are not new, but rather a continuation of God’s inclusive plan.
2. The Church and Israel Are One
There is a longstanding divide between Israel and the Church in certain Christian teachings, especially within dispensationalism. However, the New Testament presents a different understanding: the "church" is not separate from Israel but is part of the same body. This concept can be traced back to the Old Testament, where Israel is often referred to as God’s congregation (Ecclesia). In Acts 7:38, Stephen refers to the Israelites in the wilderness as part of the "church." Ephesians 2:19 affirms that Gentiles who come to faith in Christ are grafted into the same body, becoming fellow citizens with Israel. This unifies all believers, Jew and Gentile, into one spiritual nation, a continuation of Israel as God's chosen people.
3. Faith and Obedience Define God's People
The distinction between physical and spiritual Israel is important in understanding God's covenant. While physical descent from Abraham does not guarantee inclusion in God's promises, faith and obedience to His Word are what truly define His people. Romans 9 explains that not all of Israel is Israel; spiritual Israel is composed of those who live by faith and obedience. This principle is echoed in Deuteronomy and throughout Scripture, showing that anyone—Jew or Gentile—who faithfully follows God's commands is part of His covenant people. Obedience to God's law is the fruit of genuine faith, as demonstrated by both the patriarchs and Jesus Himself. For believers today, this means that following God's commandments is not a matter of salvation, but a sign of living faithfully as part of His eternal covenant.
Church Thru Israel Scripture with Scriptures .
