Does the Bible refer to Christian gentiles or the Church as "New Israelites", "New Israel" or "Spiritual Israel"?

**Introduction:** Merriam-Webster defines New Israel as “the Christian fellowship of believers: the Christian Church.” The relationship of Israel and the Church has been debated for centuries and various theologies have emerged. For example, ***replacement theology*** teaches that the church has replaced Israel in God’s plan and that the many promises God made to Israel are fulfilled in the Church instead—Old Testament prophecies are allegorized in order to make them applicable to the church. ***"Spiritual Israel"*** is a term sometimes used to suggest concepts related to replacement theology. Contrary to replacement theology, ***dispensationalism*** teaches that, after the rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18), God will restore Israel as the primary focus of His plan. Others believe that ***the church is distinct from Israel***, and the church is an entirely new creation that came into being on the day of Pentecost. **The reason for my question** is not to argue for or against any of these conflicting views. I have been asked to answer a very specific question, namely, ***does the Bible refer to Christian gentiles or the Church as "New Israelites", "New Israel" or "Spiritual Israel"?*** It may be that the early church fathers wrote about the relationship between Israel and the Church and it would be helpful to know who may have said what. However, being a Christian of the Protestant persuasion, I prefer to stick to what the Bible says. Nonetheless, in order to respond to the question I have been assigned, I would appreciate any helpful input regarding this specific question. Thank you. P.S. If the tags I have selected can be improved upon, feel free to make suggestions.