What did Paul say about the spiritual condition of Gentiles before Christ?
Paul writes that Gentiles in times past were without Christ, aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise. They had no hope and were without God in the world. This was while God dealt with Israel on the covenant basis.
Les explains that Paul is describing the Gentile condition in times past, when Israel was still under God's promises in the Old Testament economy and God was dealing with Jew only. The circumcised Jew called the Gentile uncircumcision, often meaning uncircumcised dogs. Paul says Gentiles were without Christ, aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. Les notes people get disturbed by this, but God cannot be accused of being unfair; He is always fair, just, and righteous.