Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of calling for God's glory is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the purpose and ultimate aim of creation, redemption, and the believer's life. The glory of God is the manifestation of His divine attributes and the revelation of His presence. Throughout Scripture, believers are exhorted to live in a manner that reflects and magnifies God's glory.
Old Testament FoundationsThe Old Testament lays the groundwork for understanding God's glory. In
Exodus 33:18-19, Moses requests to see God's glory, and the LORD responds, "I will cause all My goodness to pass before you, and I will proclaim My name, the LORD, in your presence." Here, God's glory is associated with His goodness and His name, indicating His character and reputation.
The Psalms frequently call for the glorification of God.
Psalm 19:1 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." Creation itself is a testament to God's glory, and humanity is called to recognize and proclaim it. In
Isaiah 43:7, God speaks of those "whom I created for My glory, whom I formed and made," highlighting that humanity's very existence is intended to reflect God's glory.
New Testament RevelationThe New Testament further develops the theme of God's glory, particularly through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
John 1:14 states, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God's glory, embodying divine attributes in human form.
Believers are called to live for God's glory in their daily lives. In
1 Corinthians 10:31, Paul instructs, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God." This comprehensive call encompasses all aspects of life, urging believers to consider how their actions reflect on God's character and reputation.
The Church and God's GloryThe church, as the body of Christ, is a collective witness to God's glory.
Ephesians 3:21 proclaims, "to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen." The church is tasked with manifesting God's glory through worship, service, and the proclamation of the Gospel.
The apostle Peter encourages believers to use their gifts for God's glory, writing in
1 Peter 4:10-11, "As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another... so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ." This passage underscores the importance of using one's talents and resources to honor God.
Eschatological FulfillmentThe ultimate fulfillment of God's glory will be realized in the eschaton, when His glory will be fully revealed and acknowledged by all creation.
Revelation 21:23 describes the New Jerusalem, stating, "The city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb." In the new creation, God's glory will be the source of light and life, permeating all existence.
Throughout Scripture, the call for God's glory is a central theme, urging believers to live in a way that reflects His character and advances His kingdom. This call is both a privilege and a responsibility, as believers are invited to participate in the divine purpose of glorifying God in all things.
