What was the condition of the Gentiles before the gospel of grace came?
Before the gospel of grace came, Gentiles were strangers from the covenants of promise, aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, without hope, and without God in this world. That was their lot prior to grace, but now Jew and Gentile are on a level playing field, with neither having advantage.
Les explains that while all Gentiles were in God's mind, the Old Testament concept was different. Citing Ephesians 2, he notes Paul reminded Gentiles that in uncircumcision they were strangers from the covenants of promise, aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, without hope and without God in this world. That was the Gentiles' lot before the gospel of grace came. Now, however, Les teaches that Jew and Gentile are on a level playing field; neither has advantage. God justifies the circumcision by faith and the uncircumcision through faith, with no difference—both are saved by faith in the finished work of the cross, with nothing added.
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
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.
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.