The Difference

By Oscar M. Baker
    Most people suppose the difference between Jew and Gentile in scripture is a racial one. A close examination reveals such was not the case. The difference was because of promises not a difference of race.
    The Jews were, “…Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the PROMISES; whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came.” Romans 9:4, 5.
    All others were, “Gentiles…. Who are called the Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made with hands; 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.”  Ephesians 2:11, 12.
    Romans was written during the time of the CHURCH OF God ended at the end of the time covered by Acts. Even then there was no difference between Jew and Gentile as far as sin and salvation were concerned. Both had sinned and come short of the glory of God. But positionally it was the Jew first.
    But now, as shown in Ephesians, this position has been changed. In the church which is HIS BODY there is no difference in position. The middle wall of partition has been broken down. All members are equal.    Originally published in Dec.1948