Avraham Gileadi’s work Becoming Kings and Queens of the Gentiles explores the biblical concepts of spiritual ascent and the responsibilities of God’s people, particularly focusing on the Gentiles’ role in the unfolding of God’s kingdom in the latter days. The title itself references the theme of becoming spiritually elevated and possessing divine authority, as well as the roles that Gentiles—non-Israelite nations—will play in the establishment of God’s kingdom.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key themes and teachings in Becoming Kings and Queens of the Gentiles:
The Identity of Spiritual Israel
Gileadi emphasizes the importance of spiritual Israel in God’s plan for the last days. While Israel is traditionally seen as the physical descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Gileadi argues that spiritual Israel, those who accept God’s covenant and follow His commandments, includes not just the literal descendants of Israel but also the Gentiles who are adopted into the house of Israel through their faith in Christ.
- Spiritual Israel: The concept of spiritual Israel is central to the restoration of God’s covenant people. It is a distinction based on spiritual alignment with God’s will rather than on ethnicity. Gentiles, through their adoption into the covenant, become part of this larger group and gain access to the promises made to the children of Israel.
- Adoption into Israel: The Gentiles who accept the gospel and live by God’s commandments are considered to be grafted into the house of Israel, meaning they partake in the blessings and responsibilities that come with being part of God’s chosen people.
The Calling of Gentiles in the Last Days
Gileadi asserts that the Gentiles, who have long been considered outside of the covenant, will play a significant role in the latter-day restoration of the gospel. He ties this idea to prophecies found in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, particularly those that discuss the gathering of Israel and the preparation for the Second Coming of Christ.
- Gentiles’ Role in the Gathering: As the gospel is spread to the Gentiles, they will not only receive the gospel but also become instruments in the gathering of Israel. This process will involve the Gentiles helping to bring the scattered tribes of Israel back to the fold, both physically and spiritually.
- Becoming Kings and Queens: The Gentiles who embrace the gospel and fulfill their calling are metaphorically described as becoming “kings and queens” in the sense that they will possess the authority, blessings, and responsibilities associated with the covenant people. They will inherit the promise of ruling with Christ and sharing in His kingdom.
The Latter-Day Role of Zion
Zion plays a pivotal role in Gileadi’s work, representing both the physical and spiritual center of God’s kingdom in the last days. Zion is where God’s people will gather, where His laws will be practiced, and where the righteous will be protected in the tumultuous events leading up to the Second Coming.
- Zion as a Spiritual Center: Zion is not just a physical place but also a concept representing the pure-hearted people of God, who live in harmony with His will. The Gentiles, having been adopted into Israel, will assist in building this spiritual Zion by helping to establish righteous communities and promoting godly principles.
- Zion as a Kingdom: In the last days, Zion will be a kingdom that represents God’s reign on earth. Gentiles who align themselves with God’s plan for Zion will be “kings and queens,” meaning they will have the authority to govern and lead according to God’s divine laws.
The Role of Leadership and Authority
Gileadi discusses how those who align themselves with God’s covenant become leaders and rulers in His kingdom, both in this life and in the world to come. These leaders are not those who wield power through dominance or control but those who serve and lead by example, following Christ’s teachings.
- Servant Leadership: In God’s kingdom, leadership is defined by humility, service, and the willingness to sacrifice for the good of others. A “king” or “queen” in God’s eyes is one who reflects Christ-like qualities, including love, patience, and selflessness.
- God’s Appointed Leaders: Leaders in the latter-day kingdom of God will be those who have been chosen and anointed by God. These leaders will guide the people toward righteousness, helping to prepare them for the return of Jesus Christ.
The Inheritance of the Promises
A significant aspect of Gileadi’s teaching is that those who accept the gospel and become part of spiritual Israel inherit the promises given to the patriarchs, especially those found in the Abrahamic covenant. This covenant includes blessings of eternal life, a connection to the land of promise, and the opportunity to dwell in the presence of God.
- Abrahamic Covenant: The covenant made with Abraham, which extends to his descendants and those adopted into his lineage, promises blessings of prosperity, peace, and protection. By embracing the gospel, Gentiles become partakers of these promises.
- Heirs to the Kingdom: As part of spiritual Israel, the faithful are heirs to the kingdom of God. They are entitled to rule with Christ, receive eternal life, and partake in the joys of the kingdom, which will be established in its fullness during the Millennium.
The Coming Judgment and the Establishment of the Kingdom
Gileadi acknowledges that the end times, as prophesied in the scriptures, will bring both destruction and redemption. The wicked will be judged, and the faithful will be protected and elevated to a position of spiritual and temporal leadership.
- Judgment of the Nations: Nations that have rejected God’s laws will be judged, and the righteous will be separated from the wicked. This separation is not just in terms of geographical location but also in terms of spiritual allegiance.
- The Rise of Zion: While the world faces destruction and chaos, Zion will rise as a place of peace and safety. The faithful, including Gentiles who have accepted the gospel, will participate in the building and establishment of this Zion.
Conclusion: The Eternal Role of the Gentiles
In the final analysis, Gileadi’s Becoming Kings and Queens of the Gentiles highlights the eternal role of the Gentiles in God’s plan. As they accept the gospel, they join the ranks of spiritual Israel and take on the responsibilities of leadership, service, and participation in the establishment of Zion. Their ultimate goal is to assist in preparing the world for the Second Coming of Christ, where they will rule with Him in His kingdom.
Through the covenant, the Gentiles are promised not only salvation but also the opportunity to help usher in God’s final work on earth. As they align themselves with God’s principles and live a Christ-centered life, they will truly become “kings and queens,” sharing in the divine inheritance and blessings of the covenant.
In sum, Gileadi emphasizes that the Gentiles’ role is not just to receive the gospel but to become active participants in God’s grand design for the last days, helping to build Zion, restoring God’s law on earth, and preparing the world for Christ’s return.
