In biblical contexts, the term "heathen" generally refers to individuals or groups who are not part of the Israelite community and do not worship the God of Israel. The term is derived from the Old English "hæthen," which translates the Hebrew word "גּוֹי" (goy), meaning "nation" or "people," and the Greek word "ἔθνος" (ethnos), which similarly denotes a people or nation, often with implications of being outside the covenant community of God's people. In many instances, "heathen" is used to describe Gentiles—those who do not follow the laws and traditions established in the Hebrew Scriptures.Biblically, the term often carries a connotation of idolatry and paganism, as seen in verses such as Psalms 96:5, which states, "For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the Lord made the heavens." This distinction emphasizes the belief in one true God versus the worship of false gods common among the nations surrounding Israel. Moreover, the New Testament also reflects this distinction, particularly in the missionary efforts of Paul, who aimed to bring the message of Christ to the "heathen" or Gentiles, as noted in Acts 13:46-47, where Paul declares, "We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles." Thus, "heathen" reflects both a cultural and religious identity in the biblical narrative.
In this sermon, the speaker recounts horrifying stories of religious practices in different parts of the world. He describes witnessing a young widow being strangled to death by natives, a witch doctor pouring sand into a newborn baby's mouth until it strangles, and a little girl in Africa being cut