The phrase "all the world" is used in the Bible to denote the entirety of the earth and its inhabitants. It often signifies the scope of God's creation, the reach of His sovereignty, and the extent of His redemptive plan. This entry explores the biblical usage and theological implications of the term "all the world."

Creation and Sovereignty

The concept of "all the world" begins with the creation narrative, where God is depicted as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational truth establishes God's authority over all creation. Psalm 24:1 further affirms, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein."

Judgment and Redemption

The phrase is also used in contexts of divine judgment and redemption. In the account of Noah's flood, Genesis 7:19-23 describes how the waters covered "all the high mountains under the whole heaven," indicating a judgment that affected "all the world." This event prefigures the universal scope of God's redemptive plan, which is fully revealed in the New Testament.

In the New Testament, the Great Commission underscores the global mission of the Church. Jesus commands His disciples in Mark 16:15, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature." This mandate reflects God's desire for the message of salvation to reach every corner of the earth, emphasizing the inclusivity of the gospel.

Prophecy and Fulfillment

Prophetic literature often uses "all the world" to describe the scope of God's future plans. In Isaiah 45:22, God declares, "Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other." This invitation to salvation is extended to all nations, highlighting the universal reach of God's redemptive work.

The fulfillment of these prophecies is seen in the New Testament, where the gospel is proclaimed to both Jews and Gentiles. Romans 1:8 praises the faith of the Roman believers, stating, "First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being proclaimed all over the world."

Eschatological Implications

The phrase "all the world" also carries eschatological significance. In Matthew 24:14, Jesus prophesies, "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come." This statement links the global proclamation of the gospel with the culmination of history and the return of Christ.

Revelation 3:10 speaks of a time of testing that will come upon "the whole world," indicating a period of tribulation that affects all humanity. This global perspective underscores the comprehensive nature of God's final judgment and the ultimate establishment of His kingdom.

Conclusion

The biblical use of "all the world" encompasses themes of creation, judgment, redemption, prophecy, and eschatology. It reflects the vastness of God's creation, the universality of His redemptive plan, and the global scope of His ultimate purposes. Through this phrase, Scripture reveals the depth of God's love and the breadth of His sovereign will for all humanity.