Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Origin The term "doxology" is derived from the Greek words "doxa," meaning "glory," and "logia," meaning "saying" or "utterance." In Christian liturgical tradition, a doxology is a short hymn of praise to God. Doxologies are often used in worship services to express glory and honor to the Triune God, with particular emphasis on Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior. Biblical Foundations Doxologies are found throughout the Bible, serving as expressions of praise and adoration. In the New Testament, doxologies often focus on the person and work of Jesus Christ. One of the most well-known doxologies is found in the Apostle Paul's letter to the Romans: "To the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen" (Romans 16:27). This doxology highlights the wisdom of God manifested through Jesus Christ. Another significant doxology is found in the book of Jude: "To Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you unblemished in His glorious presence, with great joy—to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all time, and now, and for all eternity. Amen" (Jude 1:24-25). This passage emphasizes the eternal nature of Christ's glory and His role as Savior. Theological Significance Doxologies to Jesus Christ affirm His divine nature and His central role in the salvation narrative. They acknowledge His pre-existence, incarnation, atoning death, resurrection, and ascension. The doxological expressions in the New Testament serve as a reminder of Christ's sovereignty and His ultimate authority over all creation. The doxology in Philippians 2:9-11 underscores the exaltation of Christ: "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" . This passage highlights the universal acknowledgment of Christ's lordship and the glory it brings to God the Father. Liturgical Use In Christian worship, doxologies are often recited or sung as part of liturgical practices. The "Gloria Patri," also known as the "Lesser Doxology," is a traditional hymn of praise that is frequently used in various Christian denominations: "Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen." The "Greater Doxology," or "Gloria in Excelsis Deo," is another hymn of praise that is used in the liturgy of the Eucharist in many Christian traditions. It begins with the angelic hymn from Luke 2:14, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests!" , and continues with praises to Jesus Christ. Conclusion Doxologies to Jesus Christ serve as powerful expressions of worship and adoration, reflecting the core beliefs of the Christian faith regarding the nature and work of Christ. They are integral to both personal devotion and corporate worship, providing believers with a means to glorify God through Jesus Christ. |