In the biblical context, "The Peoples" often refers to the various nations, tribes, and ethnic groups that are distinct from the Israelites. The term is used throughout the Bible to denote those outside the covenant community of Israel, highlighting both the diversity of humanity and the universal scope of God's plan.

Old Testament References

In the Old Testament, "The Peoples" are frequently mentioned in relation to God's promises and judgments. Genesis 10, often referred to as the Table of Nations, lists the descendants of Noah's sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—who became the ancestors of various peoples. This chapter underscores the idea that all nations originate from a common ancestry, reflecting the unity and diversity of humanity.

The Psalms often speak of "The Peoples" in the context of God's sovereignty and the call for all nations to worship Him. Psalm 67:3-4 states, "Let the peoples praise You, O God; let all the peoples praise You. Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for You judge the peoples justly and lead the nations of the earth." Here, the psalmist envisions a time when all peoples will acknowledge and worship the one true God.

Prophetic books like Isaiah also address "The Peoples," emphasizing God's plan for salvation that extends beyond Israel. Isaiah 2:2 prophesies, "In the last days, the mountain of the house of the LORD will be established as the chief of the mountains, and will be raised above the hills; and all the nations will stream to it." This vision portrays a future where all peoples are drawn to God's presence.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, the concept of "The Peoples" takes on a more explicit universal dimension with the advent of Jesus Christ. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19 commands, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." This directive underscores the mission to bring the gospel to all peoples, transcending ethnic and cultural boundaries.

The Book of Acts records the early church's efforts to reach "The Peoples," as seen in the account of Pentecost in Acts 2. Here, the Holy Spirit enables the apostles to speak in various tongues, allowing people from different nations to hear the gospel in their own languages. This event signifies the breaking down of barriers and the inclusivity of the Christian message.

The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently addresses the inclusion of Gentiles—non-Jewish peoples—into the covenant community. In Romans 15:10-11 , Paul quotes the Old Testament, saying, "Rejoice, O Gentiles, with His people," and again, "Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and extol Him, all you peoples." This reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his offspring (Genesis 12:3).

Theological Significance

Theologically, "The Peoples" represent the scope of God's redemptive plan. While Israel was chosen as God's covenant people, the ultimate purpose was to be a light to the nations (Isaiah 49:6). The inclusion of "The Peoples" in God's salvific work highlights His desire for a diverse yet unified body of believers, as seen in Revelation 7:9 : "After this I looked and saw a multitude too large to count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb."

In summary, "The Peoples" in the Bible encompass the diverse nations and ethnic groups of the world, illustrating both the universality of sin and the inclusivity of God's salvation through Jesus Christ. The biblical narrative consistently points to a future where all peoples are united in worship and fellowship with God.