Why does Paul call Gentile believers the seed of Abraham?
Paul calls Gentile believers the seed of Abraham because Christ is the one singular seed to whom the promises were made, and Gentile believers enter that faith realm through Him. In the realm of faith plus nothing, they are identified with Abraham's seed by virtue of Christ being the seed.
Les teaches that Paul refers to three distinct seeds: the seed of the woman in Genesis 3, who would crush Satan; the seed of David, through whom Christ came in the flesh, went to the cross, and is rightful heir to David's throne; and the seed of Abraham. In Galatians 3:16, Paul says the promises were made to Abraham and his seed, not seeds plural, but as of one, "to thy seed, who is Christ." Because Christ is that singular seed, Gentile believers are brought into the picture. When it comes to the realm of faith plus nothing, Paul refers to Gentile believers as the seed of Abraham because of Christ being the seed. Romans 1:3 also says Christ was made of the seed of David according to the flesh.
Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.
More Questions
What three distinct seeds does Paul refer to in this passage?
Paul makes reference to three distinct seeds: the seed of the woman, the seed of David, and the seed of Abraham.
Who is the 'seed' of Abraham in Galatians 3:16?
In Galatians 3:16, the promises were made to Abraham and his seed, and 'seed' is singular, referring to Christ, not plural seeds referring to many.