The Bible presents a complex and multifaceted view of non-believers and their role in God's divine plan. Throughout Scripture, non-believers are depicted in various ways, serving as instruments of God's purposes, whether knowingly or unknowingly. This entry explores the biblical narrative concerning non-believers and their involvement in God's overarching plan.

1. Instruments of God's Judgment and Mercy

Non-believers often serve as instruments of God's judgment against His people when they stray from His commandments. For instance, God used foreign nations to discipline Israel when they turned to idolatry and disobedience. In the Book of Judges, God allowed surrounding nations to oppress Israel as a consequence of their unfaithfulness (Judges 2:14-15). Similarly, the Babylonian exile was a result of Israel's persistent sin, with Nebuchadnezzar, a non-believer, acting as God's agent of judgment (Jeremiah 25:9).

Conversely, non-believers can also be instruments of God's mercy. The account of Cyrus, the Persian king, illustrates this role. Isaiah 45:1 refers to Cyrus as God's "anointed," chosen to facilitate the return of the Jewish exiles and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. Despite not knowing God, Cyrus was used to fulfill God's promises to His people.

2. Witnesses to God's Power and Glory

Non-believers often witness God's power and glory, leading to the acknowledgment of His sovereignty. The account of Pharaoh during the Exodus is a prime example. Through the plagues and the parting of the Red Sea, God demonstrated His might, compelling Pharaoh and the Egyptians to recognize His supremacy (Exodus 9:16).

In the New Testament, the Roman centurion at the crucifixion of Jesus declared, "Truly this was the Son of God!" (Matthew 27:54). This acknowledgment from a non-believer underscores the impact of witnessing divine events and the revelation of God's glory.

3. Recipients of God's Love and Salvation

The Bible affirms that God's love extends to all humanity, including non-believers. John 3:16 states, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This universal offer of salvation highlights God's desire for all people to come to repentance and faith.

The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in his letters, noting that God's kindness is intended to lead people to repentance (Romans 2:4). The inclusion of Gentiles in the early church, as seen in the Book of Acts, further illustrates God's plan to extend salvation beyond the Jewish people to all nations (Acts 10:34-35).

4. Catalysts for the Spread of the Gospel

Non-believers have played a crucial role in the spread of the Gospel. Persecution by non-believers often led to the dispersion of Christians, which in turn facilitated the spread of Christianity. Acts 8:1 describes how the persecution in Jerusalem caused believers to scatter, preaching the word wherever they went.

Moreover, interactions with non-believers provided opportunities for evangelism and the demonstration of Christian witness. The Apostle Paul's missionary journeys frequently involved engaging with non-believers, debating in synagogues and public forums, and converting many to the faith (Acts 17:17).

5. Examples of Moral and Ethical Lessons

Non-believers in the Bible often serve as examples of moral and ethical lessons. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) features a Samaritan, considered a non-believer by Jewish standards, as the exemplar of neighborly love and compassion. This parable challenges believers to transcend cultural and religious boundaries in demonstrating love and mercy.

Similarly, the faith of the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15:21-28 serves as a lesson in humility and persistence, leading Jesus to commend her great faith. These narratives illustrate that non-believers can exhibit virtues that believers are called to emulate.

In summary, non-believers play diverse and significant roles in God's plan as instruments of judgment and mercy, witnesses to His power, recipients of His love, catalysts for the Gospel, and examples of moral lessons. Through these roles, God's sovereignty and redemptive purposes are revealed, demonstrating His desire for all people to come to the knowledge of the truth.