The Time of the Gentiles
"For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people. And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled." (Luke 21:23-24)
My attention has been recently drawn to this passage in its larger context: Christ’s description of the coming end of the Mosaic covenant and the fulfillment of the covenant God made with Abraham. It was a pivotal time in redemptive history and yet, it seems to me, we have largely missed its significance.
The "time of the Gentiles" has been given a meaning by many contemporary Christians that may well be foreign to what Christ taught here. My thoughts are still in the development phase but founded well enough, I believe, to share with you in a preliminary way.
I have come to disagree with the popular view that the "time of the Gentiles" refers to the present time (the so called "church age") during which the gospel continues to be preached to all the world in anticipation of cataclysmic events which will destroy planet earth. Let’s see if we can make some sense out of this passage in its historical-redemptive setting.
First, note that text does not say "time of the Gentiles" but timeS of the Gentiles. The Greek word is kairos which means a season or period of time rather than a singular point in time. As we will see, that is an important observation from a prophetic standpoint.
Next, understand that the word ethnos which is translated "Gentiles" appears four times in the immediate context. Most translations have "Gentiles" here but "nations" earlier in verse 24 and also in verse 25. Where did we get the word "Gentiles" in the first place?
It comes from the Latin gentilis which, according to my dictionary, has the idea of belonging to the same group or family. The Hebrew equivalent of the word is goy from which we get goyim. Though the term is frequently used to refer to those of non-Jewish descent, it is also used in reference to the Jewish people.
In the New Testament, ethnos is translated "nation" and "Gentile" about an equal number of times. While it is obvious from the context in many places that "Gentile" has been used to draw a distinction between Jews and non-Jews, no such distinction is indicated in the text at hand (and others). It seems that the decision to translate it as "Gentile" here has more to do with supporting the theology of the translator than the specific language of the text.
When ethnos is rendered "Gentile" here, it tends to imply that some special dispensation of non-Hebrews is being entered which must come to fruition. But, when we translate it "nations" as is done in the other places in the immediate context, the possibility of a different (and I believe more accurate) interpretation arises. It is that interpretation I want to entertain at this point.
Let’s go all the way back to Genesis. God created the heavens and the earth. Where were the nations? They didn’t exist. In fact, everyone spoke the same language. That led to a rather significant event which is probably already being played in your mind, the Tower of Babel.
The people were determined to build a tower to the heavens to reach God by their own efforts. They weren’t about to let the consequences of the fall keep them out of God’s presence . . . or so they thought.
God had other plans. Seeing their determination, He confused their language and thus the "nations" were born. As a side note, I should add that Genesis 11 appears to be a parenthetical insertion to explain how the nations mentioned in 10:31–32 came about.
From what had been one race there came many goy (groups of people). Their unity was fractured and their segregation by language ultimately gave way to national identities and the resulting strife it bred.
Then the story got really interesting. Out of all the nations of the earth, God chose one man whose posterity He would set apart (sanctify if you will) to work His redemptive purposes. You remember the call of Abram and how God promised to make him the father of a great gowy (nation) which would bless all the families of the earth.
It would be many generations before that promise would come to fruition. Narrowing the view even further, God chose Jacob out of all of Abraham’s lineage and changed his name to Israel. His family would be the physical family through which the promise to Abraham would be kept.
In the interim, there was strife between the chosen people and the other nations. Too, national pride and their loss of faith led to their rejection of God as King and, in short order, to divisions within the Hebrews themselves.
Their rebellion against God resulted in their being carried into captivity and scattered among the other nations. Only a remnant would return to fulfill the words of the prophets.
Most notable among them, in the context of this study, is Daniel. His interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream about the statue is so specific that detractors insist it was written after the fact! The image signified four kingdoms which would precede the reign of the Prince - the Messiah. We won’t go into detail here, but do take the time to revisit Daniel’s interpretation.
The important note is that the four nations he predicted may well answer to "the times of the nations." They would be shattered by a stone hewn without hands which would grow into a mountain that filled the earth. The rest is history. Babylon fell to Medo-Persia which fell to Greece, which fell to Rome. Mankind reached its pinnacle of glory, and decadence.
Then, as Paul says in Ephesians 1:9-10, " He [God] made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him [Christ] with a view to an administration suitable to the fulness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things upon the earth." (emphasis mine)
I find that to be an incredible choice of words with our opening context in view! Jesus said that His disciples were living in the days when all this would happen. The time of the nations would be fulfilled (pleroma). The Greek word suggests the idea of that time expiring or having run its course. Now Paul declares that things are being summed up in Christ with an higher administration in view.
It is so easy to let our subjectivity draw us away from God’s perspective of these events. What began as one nation would, in the fulness of times, be returned to one nation with Christ as the federal head. God would no longer draw a distinction among the peoples of the earth.
Peter states, "Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him." (Acts 10:34-35).
Finally, In Rev. 11:1-2 we read, "And there was given me a measuring rod like a staff; and someone said, "Rise and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and those who worship in it. And leave out the court which is outside the temple, and do not measure it, for it has been given to the nations; and they will tread under foot the holy city for forty-two months." (I will resist the urge to chase a rabbit here, but do note that this passage makes it clear the temple was still standing at the time. This makes the popular dating of Revelation in the mid 90's unacceptable.)
In A.D. 70, the great vestige of the time of the nations came to an end as Jerusalem fell; and with its collapse began the fall of the Roman Empire. From a human perspective, other nations would rise and fall, but nothing compares to the period of history surrounding the advent of Christ.
Only selfishness and pride divide the nations today. It is the calling of God’s people to be a city set on a hill: to live as citizens of the New Jerusalem as a healing for the nations.
In spite of the darkness which seems to surround us at times, the influence of Christ continues to cover the earth and everywhere it goes the world will never be the same. I long for the day when the reign of truth and righteousness so covers the earth that those who work evil are the exception rather than the rule. Yes, I do believe that day is coming and what a glorious day it will be.
Is my understanding here correct? I’d appreciate your thoughts. It is just one of many things that are in view as I continue to grow in my understanding of God’s word. Your insights are cherished.
If one insists that a special dispensation of non-Jews had to be fulfilled before Christ appeared the second time (Heb. 9:28), then it was necessarily fulfilled prior to A.D. 70. Indeed, Paul proclaims in Col. 1:6 and 23 that the gospel had been proclaimed in all creation. He affirms this again in 2 Tim. 4:17.
Those who insist that the "great commission" hasn’t been fulfilled have a problem. New people are being born all the time. There will never be a time when every soul on the face of the earth has heard the gospel proclaimed.
If our traditional understanding of this passage stands, Christ would never be able to "appear a second time unto salvation" and we would have no hope. However, understanding that all this was accomplished in the first century and that we live in the Kingdom of God now is liberating. At the same time, we should realize the importance of our diligence as Kingdom citizens.
This issue is one of the many reasons I find fulfilled eschatology to make sense. I hope you are beginning to see how difficult verses fall into place by seeing prophecy this way.
Bible 101
We’ve spent nine months taking just a brief look at how to interpret scripture. There is much more to be said in that regard and I hope the time we’ve spent has in some way encouraged you to continue learning how to study your Bible.
There is one important aspect of Bible study we haven’t touched on, and it is a critical one if we are to be diligent in our Christian walk: application. Now that we know what the text says, how does it apply to us today? Unless we address this issue our study becomes purely academic.
Indeed, there is danger here. We can turn into students who expound on the scriptures at length but fail to live them out. You’ve probably known people like that. If you’re like me, you know you have that tendency and guard against it.
Application is important, but proper application is imperative! Many of the divisions among Christians today arise from improper application. Diligence requires us to apply scripture properly; unity demands it. So, how does a biblical teaching apply to us? That depends on a number of things.
Several initial questions we need to ask as we consider the application of a text are:
Does the teaching in this passage apply to me?
How does it apply to me?
What are the basic truths contained in the passage I need to incorporate in my life?
What changes in my understanding and living are suggested by these truths?
Paul told Timothy that scripture was profitable for what? Right - teaching, reproof, correction and training in righteousness! Let’s take a minute to consider those.
Teaching (didaskalia) is using God’s word to instruct ourselves or others. We could spend a lot of time on scriptural admonitions regarding teachers, but suffice it to say that it is not a calling to be entered into lightly. It demands a great reverence for the authority of God’s word and that includes an eagerness to allow it to speak to our own lives with authority.
Reproof (elegcho) has the idea of conviction, evidence, or proof. That obviously has personal implications, but it speaks on a larger scale to convicting unbelievers or the world at large.
Correction (epanorthosis) means a straightening up again (like going to the chiropractor to get your back re-aligned!). This certainly applies to the reformation of lives which have not been reconciled to God, but it also provides the adjustment we need when we, as Christians. get a kink in our faith walk.
Training in righteousness (paideia, dikaiosune) is a chastening (a rod of discipline) to teach what is right or just. God does not let injustice continue indefinitely in our individual, corporate, or national lives. We should be painfully aware of His discipline at this time in this country.
Of course, Paul’s instruction to Timothy refers primarily to the Old Testament. What we have as New Testament writings were not recognized as scripture when this admonition was written. Nonetheless, all writing inspired of God is useful for these purposes. Someday we will address the canonization of scripture, but for now that would be another rabbit trail.
As we consider the possible applications, keeping these potential uses in mind will be helpful. Our situation at the time we read it may determine how God uses it to deal with us.
Once we know what a passage teaches, we need to decide whether it applies to us or not. Much of the instruction in scripture was intended for a specific audience in a specific setting. Is the text under consideration only addressed to the immediate context or does it have a general application that applies to everyone in all times?
One important principle is to be certain that the teaching has not been superceded by later teaching. This is especially true as we consider teachings in the Old Testament. Many were types or figures for what was to come later. Once they were fulfilled, observing them in the old way is no longer required.
Once we are past that hurdle, things start to get a little personal. We need to consider whether the teaching points out errors in our understanding, attitudes, or behavior. When so convicted by the Holy Spirit, we must be ready to conform our lives to what God has taught us.
We must be careful not to let our application be shaped by our own prejudices, disposition, culture, etc. Proper study habits will go a long way toward avoiding that, but it is still possible to miss the mark in application if we are not willing to put our predispositions on hold long enough to see where we might need to make changes.
The real test of proper application is a changed life. How has your life changed as a result of Bible study in the past year? The past ten years? Since you became a Christian?
What real milestones do you see as you look back along the path you’ve traveled? Perhaps you’ve gone in circles at times like the children of Israel in the wilderness. Maybe you’re there right now! Can you see God’s faithfulness?
Wherever you are, God will grow you up and prepare you for the next step in your walk if you are willing to be diligent to seek Him in His word.
Next time we’ll take a look at different types of studies you can do to add richness to your understanding of scripture.
From the Mailbox
I always enjoy hearing from you. It’s nice to know you actually read what I have to say, even if you disagree.
"Just a note to say I enjoyed your newsletter so much!! Every bit of it!! I don’t have a computer, so maybe I do miss out on some things. But I sure love to read and please don’t stop your newsletters. About the grandfather and granddaughter story – yes – I loved it and remember my own little granddaughter of 2 ½,or 3 at the most, sitting on grandpa’s lap. He is bald but was hairy . . . . He had on a v-neck shirt and she saw the hair on his chest and said, "Grandpa, all your hair fell onto your chest." Well, anyway – keep up the good work." G.I
Thanks for sharing the story! Stay tuned for more. - Jim
"The content and quality of The Carpenter’s Apprentice is appreciated. The inclusion of your response to what has replaced morality and the U.S. Constitution adds value to CA. A donation is enclosed." R.M.
Your kind words and generosity are appreciated! -Jim
The Apprentice’s Journal
It’s time for fall fairs! For me, it means time to set up my annual booth for The Constitution Party at our local "Fair on the Square." It’s a grueling day, but I always enjoy getting to visit with people about our founder’s vision to establish a form of government with God as their Sovereign.
The day is always a reminder of how terribly delinquent I was as a citizen of this country just a few years ago. When others noted my condition, I thanked God and started my remediation. So, each year I try to do the same for our community by sharing my experience and limited knowledge.
It is amazing how intimidated most people are about taking short, multiple choice test on the Constitution. Many just say, "No thanks" and keep on walking. Others are intrigued but embarrassed by their lack of knowledge of a simple document they should know well. Then there are those with a "what the heck" attitude who just want to take a chance and see if they can win a free book. The smallest group is, of course, those who confidently stride up to take the test and do well on it.
In five years of doing this, only one person has scored 100 on the test. Most score in the 30-50 range. The point of the test is to help citizens realize their ignorance of the laws by which they are to govern this country through their elected servants.
If you don’t know the law, then you have little choice but to accept every unlawful piece of legislation they pass. Knowing the law enables you to recognize when they pledge to do something illegal or when they actually do it.
As the rulers of this country, we have a sacred trust to discipline our servants when they disregard the law and legislate against it. We have no duty to obey their unlawful acts.
Ignorance can be bliss, but in this case ignorance is dangerous. We have a choice; we can remain ignorant or we can exercise diligence in our citizenship.
If it didn’t get lost in the mail, you’ve already discovered a copy of the Constitution Test. It is folded to hide the answers which are on the back, so be honest and don’t peek!
You are on the honor system, but if you score eight out of ten correct, write me and I send you a free copy of Frederic Bastiat’s, The Law. This classic work written by a French economist in the mid 1800's spells out succinctly what law is and how it should be exercised in a just society.
Needless to say, we are a long way from that ideal in this country at the moment! Hopefully, this little exercise will whet your appetite and cause you to study more. Then, when a candidate pledges to do something, you will immediately know if it is lawful. (Hint: It usually isn’t).
If our country is to survive, we must quit supporting people who promise to break the law. I hope that is obvious to you. ‘nuff said.
Sharon and I will be taking a short vacation at the end of this month to visit friends and family in Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas. We have scheduled several days for just the two of us and are looking forward to the time away together. We’re hoping for beautiful fall weather to light up the glorious colors God paints this time of year.
Since I carry R-40 insulation all the time, I always look forward to cooler weather. While I’m still longing for that first crisp morning in the forties, I will be happy if the first frost waits just awhile longer this year. It’s that garden thing your know!
The fall tomatoes are beginning to pink up and should start coming in soon. The winter squash is setting fruit and the beans are blooming like crazy. It would be nice to get to harvest a lot before the first frost of the season. So I can wait a bit for a really cool morning.
After six weeks of trips to the chiropractor, my back is much better. It’s not 100 percent but it probably never will be. At least I’m down to one treatment a week now and it is nice to be getting back into my old routine. Thank you for your expressions of care and concern.
You may remember that I previously wrote about the antique chest I bought to store treasures for the grandchildren. It has become quite a hit with the oldest (it’s hard to believe he will soon be three!).
Somehow, he has gotten the impression that the chest is a place he can go whenever he wants to find something special. It’s something of a challenge for him to realize that he only gets something special when grandfather chooses to give it to him.
"What’s in the chest?" is a question that he has a real hard time not asking. Although he’s being trained to wait until something is offered, it’s really hard for him not to ask. He can go for 24 hours or so, but then it just gets to be more than he can stand. Lately, he’s even asked on the phone!
Though he hasn’t quite got the idea yet, I’m delighted that he understands grandfather has wonderful things to share with him (at this age, it’s usually because Granna picked them out and put them in the chest). It is an aspect of our relationship that I want to build on as he grows. Right now, it’s mostly fun things, but in the future I want it to include much more.
The physical treasures we pass on to our children and grandchildren are nice, but it is the heart treasure that is priceless. Things can evoke pleasant memories, but proper values add lasting quality to life. What better way is there to teach them, than by deeply committed relationships in which we can share our successes and confess our failures?
The physical treasure that comes out of the chest is temporary. The greater treasure is the bond that grows because we share the experience. How very much that is like the relationship we have with our Heavenly Father.
Become as a little child who just can’t help but ask, "What’s in the chest?" Enjoy the blessings He provides and cherish the deepening of your relationship with Him as you share life in Him. ~ Jim