How were the Gentiles saved in the Old Testament?

We know that Jesus is the only way to salvation, both for Old Testament and New Testament. Although, the Old Testament is the history of Jews. They were saved by putting their faith in a coming Messiah (Jesus); not by observing the Law.

We know that God revealed Himself by general revelation. Although, general revelation allows people to know that God exist, not that they need to be saved and that a Messiah is coming. 

Then, how could Gentiles be saved, if they did not have access to this message of a coming Messiah and did not have Jewish prophet telling about it? 

Ex: Was a "normal Philistine family" already doomed from birth, because it was normal for them to worship Baal and Dagon, and were not told about  a coming Messiah or their need to be saved?

Clarify • Share • Report • Asked November 14 2013 • Samuel Bourassa