The word Gentile is used many times in the Bible. But what does it really mean? Simply put, a Gentile is someone who is not Jewish. The word often points to people from other nations, those outside the family of Israel. It can mean a group, a people, or a nation.
This word shows up in both the Old and New Testaments and helps explain how God's message reached beyond the Jews. In this article, we’ll walk through the meaning of Gentile, how it was used, and what it means for believers today.
The Meaning of the Word "Gentile"
In the Bible, "Gentile" comes from the Hebrew word “goy” (plural: goyim) in the Old Testament and the Greek word “ethnos” in the New Testament. Both words mean nation or people group. When used in Scripture, they often refer to anyone who is not part of Israel.
“He declares his word to Jacob, his statutes and rules to Israel. He has not dealt thus with any other nation; they do not know his rules.” — Psalm 147:19–20 (ESV)
Israel was set apart, and other nations were called Gentiles. But God's plan always included them.
Gentiles in the Old Testament
In the Old Testament, Gentiles were usually seen as outsiders. They were often pagan and did not follow God’s laws. Yet, even then, there were moments where Gentiles became part of God’s work.
Rahab and Ruth: Gentiles in God’s Plan
Rahab, a woman from Jericho, helped the Israelite spies. She became part of Israel and even appears in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:5).
“And Joshua spared Rahab the prostitute, with her family and all who belonged to her, because she hid the men Joshua had sent as spies to Jericho.” — Joshua 6:25 (NIV)
Ruth, a Moabite woman, followed Naomi and believed in the God of Israel.
“But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go... Your people will be my people and your God my God.’” — Ruth 1:16 (NIV)
These women show that Gentiles could be welcomed into God’s family through faith.
Gentiles in the New Testament
In the New Testament, Jesus and His disciples often talked about Gentiles. At first, the gospel was preached to the Jews. But Jesus came for everyone.
Jesus Came for All Nations
“I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me… I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also.” — John 10:14,16 (NIV)
Jesus hinted that others, meaning Gentiles, would become part of His flock.
Paul: Apostle to the Gentiles
The Apostle Paul is known for bringing the gospel to the Gentile world. He traveled across the Roman Empire to share Jesus with non-Jewish people.
“I am talking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I take pride in my ministry.” — Romans 11:13 (NIV)
Paul taught that Jews and Gentiles could both be saved by faith in Jesus.
“There is neither Jew nor Greek… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” — Galatians 3:28 (ESV)
Gentiles and the Church Today
The message of Jesus is for the whole world. Gentiles now make up most of the global church. Everyone—no matter where they’re from—can have a relationship with God through Christ.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3:16 (NIV)
Summary: Who Are the Gentiles?
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Non-Jewish people; nations outside of Israel |
| Old Testament View | Often idol-worshipers; not part of God’s covenant |
| Key Examples | Rahab and Ruth—Gentiles who were accepted into God’s people |
| Jesus’ Mission | Extended beyond Jews to include Gentiles |
| Paul’s Ministry | Focused on preaching to the Gentiles |
| Today | Gentiles are included in the Church through faith in Jesus |
God’s Promise for All
God promised Abraham that all nations would be blessed through him.
“All peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” — Genesis 12:3 (NIV)
That blessing is Jesus Christ. He broke down the wall between Jew and Gentile.
“He himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier.” — Ephesians 2:14 (NIV)
Whether Jew or Gentile, anyone can become a child of God through faith.
