Psalms 82:8—Arise, O God, judge the earth: for Thou shalt inherit all the nations. (R.V.)
The judges and magistrates are compared in this psalm to God, because they exercise something of his power in the right ordering of human society. The Bible always inculcates respect and reverence to properly constituted authority, though it never hesitates to demand of all in authority that they should exercise their high functions impartially. Too often has the high trust been abused, and the psalmist turns with relief to the upright Judge, and comforts himself with the reflection that one day God Himself shall judge the earth, because He shall inherit all the nations.
Christ is the Firstborn and Only Begotten. As such He shall inherit all things. They were made for Him. He is the Heir. He came in his incarnation to claim his inheritance; but his claim was denied. He was cast out of the vineyard and slain; but his claims were not annulled, they remained intact. And during the present age they are being vindicated; and in answer to his appeal He is receiving the heathen for his inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for his possession. One nation after another is becoming his province. The kings of the isles are bringing presents; the kings of Sheba and Seba are offering gifts.
It is great encouragement in missionary work to know that every nation is by right of gift and inheritance our Lord’s. He sold his all to purchase it, because his treasure was buried here. It is ours to make it his in fact. It is always easy to work on the line of the Divine purpose. God never purposes outside what is practicable and possible for man to realize. Apprehend the purpose of God, and without hesitation claim its realization.