What is a Nation? Seven Truths from the Table of Nations

Occoquan Bible Church | Sermons

Dear OBC Family,

On Thursday, America celebrated 248 years of independence from England. With fireworks, cookouts, and a host of other American celebrations, Americans remembered the historical origin story of our nation. Or, at least, most did.

Today, cultural amnesia afflicts many in our country and as a result, many who enjoy the fireworks may not know what the celebration is for. In fact, many might not even know or appreciate what it means to be a nation independent from other nations. Yet, such a separation from England marks a key feature of world history—not only for America but for all nations.

Indeed, since the Tower of Babel, God has ordered the world to be divided into nations, made up of different languages, cultures, and clans. And in fact, the whole story of redemptive history includes the way that God superintends nations and brings the gospel to them.

This means that knowing our place in God’s story means knowing our place among the nations, but especially in the country we call home. Scripture is not silent about nations and God’s purposes with them. Nor is it silent about what God expects of us in our own nation. And one of the most illuminating passages on this subject is Genesis 10.

On Sunday, we will consider The Table of Nations and what God has to say to us about nations and his purposes with them. As you have time, read Genesis 10 and 11, as both are needed to understand the division of the nations that comes about after the flood. Pray for our time together and pray for our nation. On Sunday, we will consider further what our responsibility is in our nation—both now and until Christ returns to earth.

As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.

For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,

Pastor David

Discussion & Response Questions ( Genesis 10)

1. How much thought have you given to the idea of ‘nations’? What has been most (un)helpful?

2. What place do nations play in the Bible? In redemptive history? In God’s plans in the world today?

3. What is the common source of nations? Why does this matter? What happens if this common origin is lost?

4. What brought about the division among the nations? Why is this a good thing?

5. What is God doing among the various nations of the world? What does that teach us about our respective nations?

6. What is the relationship between Babel (Genesis 11) and the division of nations (Genesis 10)? Why is the order seemingly reversed?

7. How does God use the various nations in redemptive history? What does the Day of Pentecost mean for the nations?

8. Who is the desire of the nations? What role does the church have in bringing the gospel to the nations?

9. If earthly nations are not ultimate, what is our responsibility for them? What role do you play in blessing your nation?