The inclusion of Gentiles in this group is in harmony with Old Testament prophecy. It foretold the calling of the Gentiles and the preservation of a Jewish remnant. Hosea 2:23; Hosea 1:10, in their contexts, refer to a reversal of Israel"s status. Some interpreters say that this is a direct fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. [1] Others claim that this was an initial partial fulfillment that does not eliminate a future complete fulfillment. [2] A better explanation, I think, is that Paul saw an analogy between God"s present calling of Gentiles and His future calling of Israel. [3] Gentiles were not a distinct people, as were the Jews, but constituted the mass of humanity. Nevertheless, by God"s grace, believing Gentiles became members of the new people of God, the church. [source][source][source]