The concept of "Nations that Remain" in the Bible often refers to those nations or peoples that continue to exist or persist, particularly in the context of God's dealings with Israel and the unfolding of His divine plan. This theme is woven throughout the Old and New Testaments, highlighting both the sovereignty of God over the nations and the enduring nature of certain peoples in the biblical narrative.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the nations that remain are frequently mentioned in relation to Israel's conquest of the Promised Land. Despite God's command to the Israelites to completely drive out the inhabitants of Canaan, several nations persisted. Judges 2:21-23 states, "I will no longer drive out before them any of the nations Joshua left when he died. I did this to test Israel and to see whether they would keep the way of the LORD and walk in it as their fathers did." These remaining nations served as a test for Israel, challenging their faithfulness and obedience to God's commandments.

The persistence of these nations often led to Israel's spiritual and moral decline, as they were tempted to adopt pagan practices and worship foreign gods. This is evident in passages like Judges 3:5-6 : "Thus the Israelites lived among the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. And they took the daughters of these people in marriage, gave their own daughters to their sons, and served their gods."

Prophetic Literature

The prophetic books also address the nations that remain, often in the context of God's judgment and future restoration. The prophets frequently spoke of a time when God would judge the nations for their wickedness and rebellion against Him. Yet, there is also a recurring theme of hope and redemption, where the nations are invited to participate in God's kingdom.

Isaiah 2:2-4 envisions a future where "all nations will stream" to the mountain of the Lord, seeking His ways and living in peace. Similarly, Zechariah 14:16 speaks of a time when "all the survivors from the nations that came against Jerusalem will go up year after year to worship the King, the LORD of Hosts, and to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles."

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the concept of nations takes on a more inclusive and redemptive tone. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19 commands the disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations," indicating the expansion of God's covenant to include all peoples through the gospel of Jesus Christ. This reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that "all nations on earth will be blessed" through his offspring (Genesis 22:18).

The Book of Revelation further emphasizes the inclusion of all nations in God's redemptive plan. Revelation 7:9 describes a vision of "a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb." This imagery underscores the ultimate gathering of the nations in worship and unity under God's sovereign rule.

Theological Implications

The theme of nations that remain highlights God's sovereignty and faithfulness in history. It serves as a reminder of the persistent presence of sin and rebellion in the world, yet also points to God's redemptive purpose for all peoples. The enduring existence of these nations, despite Israel's failures and the world's brokenness, underscores the hope of restoration and the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ.

In summary, the biblical narrative of nations that remain reflects the tension between judgment and grace, rebellion and redemption, ultimately pointing to the consummation of God's kingdom where all nations will acknowledge His lordship and glory.