What did Paul say about the condition of the Gentiles before Christ?
Paul said that Gentiles in the flesh, called uncircumcision by the circumcision made by hands, were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.
Les explains that Paul is describing the Gentiles' past condition. The circumcised Jew called the Gentile "uncircumcised dogs." At that time, while Israel was still under the promises of God in the Old Testament economy and God was dealing with Jew only, Gentiles were without Christ. They were aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. Les notes that people get shaken by this, saying God was not fair, but God has always been fair, just, and righteous.
That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:
More Questions
Why were the Gentiles without hope and without God before Paul?
Gentiles were without hope and without God in the world while God was dealing with Israel because they were not part of the nation of Israel.
What was the condition of Gentile forefathers before they were in Christ?
Gentile forefathers were without Christ, aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.