The exaltation of God's glory is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the majesty, holiness, and supreme authority of God. This concept underscores the belief that God's glory is the ultimate purpose of creation and the ultimate aim of human existence. The glory of God is His manifest presence and the revelation of His divine attributes, including His power, wisdom, and love.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, the glory of God is often associated with His presence among His people. The Hebrew word for glory, "kavod," conveys a sense of weightiness and honor. God's glory is revealed in various ways, such as through creation, His mighty acts, and His covenant relationship with Israel. Psalm 19:1 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." This verse highlights how creation itself is a testament to God's glory.

The glory of God is also prominently displayed in the tabernacle and the temple. In Exodus 40:34-35, the glory of the LORD fills the tabernacle: "Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. Moses was unable to enter the Tent of Meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle." Similarly, at the dedication of Solomon's temple, the glory of the LORD fills the house, signifying His presence and approval (1 Kings 8:10-11).

Prophetic Visions

The prophets frequently speak of God's glory, often in the context of His future plans for His people and the world. Isaiah 6:3 records the seraphim proclaiming, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." This vision emphasizes God's holiness and the pervasive nature of His glory. Ezekiel's visions also depict the glory of God departing from and returning to the temple, symbolizing judgment and restoration (Ezekiel 10:18-19; 43:4-5).

New Testament Revelation

In the New Testament, the glory of God is supremely revealed in 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 embodiment of God's glory, and His life, death, and resurrection are the ultimate demonstration of God's glorious plan of redemption.

The apostle Paul frequently speaks of the glory of God in relation to the gospel. In 2 Corinthians 4:6, he writes, "For God, who said, 'Let light shine out of darkness,' made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." Believers are called to reflect God's glory through their lives, as they are transformed into the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18).

Eschatological Fulfillment

The exaltation of God's glory reaches its culmination in the eschatological vision of the new heavens and new earth. Revelation 21:23 describes the New Jerusalem: "The city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp." In this ultimate fulfillment, God's glory will be fully realized and eternally celebrated by all creation.

Throughout Scripture, the exaltation of God's glory serves as a reminder of His sovereignty and the call for all creation to worship and honor Him. The Bible consistently points to the glory of God as the highest aim and the ultimate reality that believers are invited to participate in and reflect.