16. Heir of the World
Romans 4:13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.
The amazing promise of Genesis 12 spoken to Abraham was given to Abraham and his descendants through the righteousness of faith in Christ Jesus; the promise does not come to Abraham through the keeping of the law and the doing of good things or living a good life. This promise was given to all of us who believe and are thus justified through faith.
The promise to Abraham, and to all believers, in Genesis 12:1-3 is for Land, Offspring and a Blessing to the Nations. For us it refers to the Kingdom of God, which was announced by John the Baptist and proclaimed by Jesus, that it has come. Enter in by repenting and believing the Gospel. This Promise, the Kingdom of God, is referred to here by the term “heir of the world.” Jesus promises that the “meek shall inherit the earth.” The meaning is that all things, all worldly kingdoms, all rule and authorities will become the Kingdom of the Lord and of His Christ.
All believers are included in this promise; believers are in the Eternal Kingdom; believers will inherit the world. God promises us an eternal inheritance and the Holy Spirit is the guarantee of the inheritance. The promise guarantees us that we shall indeed inherit the New Kingdom of rule and ownership of all the worlds that God created for His people to live in and enjoy forever, thus fulfilling God’ original intention for the Creation and the Crown of Creation, you and me.