The term "inhabitants of the world" in the Bible refers to all people living on the earth, encompassing every nation, tribe, and tongue. This concept is significant in understanding God's relationship with humanity, His expectations for human conduct, and His plan for salvation.

Creation and Universality

The Bible begins with the creation of the world and its inhabitants. Genesis 1:27 states, "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." This foundational truth establishes the inherent dignity and worth of all people as image-bearers of God. The universality of humanity is further emphasized in Genesis 9:19 , which notes that from Noah's sons "the whole earth was populated."

Sin and Judgment

The inhabitants of the world are also depicted as fallen and in need of redemption. Romans 3:23 declares, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This universal condition of sinfulness necessitates divine judgment, as seen in the account of the flood (Genesis 6-9) and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19). Yet, God's justice is always accompanied by His mercy, offering a way of salvation to those who repent.

God's Sovereignty and Providence

Throughout Scripture, God is portrayed as sovereign over all the earth and its inhabitants. Psalm 24:1 affirms, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein." This sovereignty extends to God's providential care and governance, as He orchestrates the affairs of nations and individuals alike. Isaiah 40:22 describes God as "He who sits enthroned above the circle of the earth, its dwellers are like grasshoppers."

The Call to Righteousness

The Bible calls the inhabitants of the world to live in righteousness and justice. Micah 6:8 succinctly states, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This call is universal, transcending cultural and national boundaries, and is rooted in the character of God Himself.

The Great Commission

The New Testament expands the scope of God's redemptive plan to include all the inhabitants of the world. Jesus' Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 commands, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This mandate underscores the global mission of the Church to proclaim the Gospel to every corner of the earth.

Eschatological Hope

The Bible concludes with a vision of the future where the inhabitants of the world are gathered before God. Revelation 7:9 describes a great multitude "from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb." This eschatological hope points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise to bless all the families of the earth through Abraham (Genesis 12:3).

In summary, the concept of the "inhabitants of the world" in the Bible encompasses the entirety of humanity, highlighting themes of creation, sin, redemption, and the universal call to righteousness under God's sovereign rule.