In the previous article, we explored several reasons that support the existence of a pre-gospel covenant between God and the world. Continuing our examination, we will delve into compelling points demonstrating God’s interaction with pagan nations and individuals, further substantiating the idea of a pre-gospel covenant.
These examples emphasize God’s desire for everyone to enter into a covenantal relationship with Him, regardless of their background or nationality.
1. Jonah’s preaching to Nineveh: Jonah’s mission to Nineveh is a remarkable example of God’s desire to bring repentance and salvation to non-Israelite nations. Despite Jonah’s initial resistance, his preaching led to the repentance of the Ninevites. This account highlights God’s compassion for all people and His intention to establish a covenantal relationship with those outside the Jewish community.
2. Joseph and Moses: Demonstrating God’s favor in Egypt: The lives of Joseph and Moses provide profound examples of God’s favor and presence within pagan nations. Both men became instruments of God’s deliverance and blessing to their families and Egyptian society through their obedience and faithfulness. These accounts reveal God’s willingness to engage with and bless individuals within non-covenant communities.
3. Jeremiah’s prophetic words over Babylon: Jeremiah’s prophecies in Jeremiah 48-52 include messages of judgment and restoration concerning Babylon. Despite being a pagan nation, God communicates His plans and purposes for Babylon, highlighting His involvement in the affairs of non-Israelite societies. This demonstrates a pre-gospel covenant relationship between God and the world.
4. Daniel’s influence on pagan kings and empires: Daniel’s life and ministry significantly impacted the pagan empires of Babylon and Persia. As a prophet, Daniel interpreted dreams and received divine revelations, influencing the decisions and beliefs of pagan kings such as Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar and Darius. These interactions exemplify God’s intention to establish a covenantal relationship with leaders and nations beyond Israel.
5. Queen Esther’s influence on King Ahasuerus: Queen Esther’s courageous actions and influence over King Ahasuerus in the Persian Empire reveal God’s providential hand in the affairs of pagan nations. God’s people were preserved and protected through her intervention, affirming His commitment to His covenantal purposes even within non-covenant communities.
6. Nehemiah’s influence on King Artaxerxes: Nehemiah’s close relationship with King Artaxerxes showcases God’s favor and the ability to influence pagan rulers. Nehemiah secured the king’s support and resources to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls through his leadership and persuasion. This exemplifies God’s involvement in the world’s affairs and His desire to use individuals to accomplish His purposes beyond the confines of the covenant community.
7. God anointed King Cyrus: Isaiah prophesied about God anointing, equipping, and calling by name a Persian king named Cyrus, who, hundreds of years later, would be instrumental in helping exiled Jews return to the city of Jerusalem (Isa. 45). Here is another example of God revealing Himself to a non-Jewish king.
This article further reinforces the pre-gospel covenant between God and the world. The accounts of Elisha, Amos, Jonah, Joseph, Moses, Jeremiah, Daniel, Queen Esther and Nehemiah are powerful evidence of God’s interaction, influence and accountability within pagan nations and individuals. These instances highlight God’s desire to establish a covenantal relationship with all people, irrespective of their cultural or national background.
These biblical narratives demonstrate that God’s redemptive plan extended far beyond the boundaries of Israel. They affirm His active involvement in the lives of individuals, nations and empires, signifying a pre-gospel covenantal relationship that existed before Jesus Christ.
Understanding and embracing the reality of a pre-gospel covenant illustrates God’s all-encompassing love and grace. It expands our understanding of His redemptive purposes and reinforces the call for believers to actively engage with and influence the world around them.
Just as God worked through individuals in ancient times, He continues to work through His people today to impact and transform societies, nations and cultures.
As we reflect on the examples provided, let us recognize our immense responsibility and privilege as believers to represent God’s covenantal love and grace to a world in need. Let us embrace our calling to be ambassadors of reconciliation, extending the invitation of covenantal relationship with God to all people. By doing so, we participate in the continuation of the pre- and post-accession gospel covenant, making known the transformative power of God’s love and the hope found in Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth. {eoa}
For the first part of this article, click here.
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Dr. Joseph Mattera is an internationally known author, consultant and theologian whose mission is to influence leaders who influence culture. He is the founding pastor of Resurrection Church and leads several organizations, including the U.S. Coalition of Apostolic Leaders and Christ Covenant Coalition.
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