Charles Ellicott Commentary Romans 4:13

"For not through the law was the promise to Abraham or to his seed that he should be heir of the world, but through the righteousness of faith." — Romans 4:13 (ASV)

Abraham was the father of all who walk in his steps. For this all is not limited by the Law any more than it is limited by circumcision. The promise of that worldwide inheritance was not given through the agency of the Law (which at that time did not exist), but as an effect of the righteousness which proceeds from faith.

Heir of the world.—This promise was explained by the Jews as relating to the universal sovereignty of the Messiah.

Through the righteousness of faith.—As a further consequence of that (imputed) righteousness which proceeds from faith. Three stages are indicated:

1. faith
2. imputed righteousness
3. access to the Messianic kingdom with all its privileges.