Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "glory to be revealed" is a significant theme in Christian theology, reflecting the future manifestation of God's splendor and majesty, particularly as it pertains to the believer's hope and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. This theme is rooted in the anticipation of the eschatological glory that will be unveiled at the return of Jesus Christ and the consummation of all things.Biblical Foundation The phrase "glory to be revealed" is notably found in the New Testament, where it encapsulates the future hope and expectation of believers. In Romans 8:18, the Apostle Paul writes, "I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us" . This passage highlights the contrast between the temporary nature of earthly suffering and the eternal weight of glory that awaits believers. It underscores the Christian belief that the trials of this life are transient and will be eclipsed by the future glory that God has prepared. Similarly, 1 Peter 5:1 speaks to the elders of the church, urging them to shepherd the flock with the understanding that they will partake in the glory to be revealed: "As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you" . This verse emphasizes the shared participation in Christ's sufferings and the subsequent sharing in His glory, a theme that resonates throughout the New Testament. Theological Significance Theologically, the "glory to be revealed" is closely associated with the second coming of Christ and the final redemption of creation. It is a future event that believers eagerly anticipate, as it signifies the full realization of God's kingdom and the restoration of all things. This glory is not merely an abstract concept but is intimately connected to the person and work of Jesus Christ. In Colossians 3:4, Paul writes, "When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory" . This verse affirms that the believer's ultimate glorification is tied to the revelation of Christ Himself. The anticipation of this glory serves as a source of hope and encouragement for Christians, motivating them to persevere through trials and to live in a manner worthy of their calling. It is a reminder that the present age, with its sufferings and challenges, is not the final reality. Instead, believers are called to fix their eyes on the eternal glory that will be revealed, as stated in 2 Corinthians 4:17: "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison" . Practical Implications The promise of the glory to be revealed has practical implications for the life of the believer. It calls for a life of holiness and obedience, as Christians are urged to live in anticipation of Christ's return. The Apostle John writes in 1 John 3:2-3, "Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure" . This passage highlights the transformative power of the hope of future glory, prompting believers to pursue purity and righteousness. Moreover, the expectation of future glory provides comfort and strength in the face of suffering. It assures believers that their present struggles are not in vain and that a glorious future awaits them. This hope is a central aspect of the Christian faith, offering assurance and perspective in the midst of life's challenges. Subtopics Glory of God: Described As Great Glory of God: Enlightens God's People Glory of God: Exhibited in Christ Glory of God: Exhibited in his Name Glory of God: Exhibited to Moses Glory of God: God is Jealous of Glory of God: Saints Desire to Behold Glory of God: The Earth is Full of Glory of God: The Knowledge of, Shall Fill the Earth Glory of God: The People of God Glory of Hypocrites Turned to Shame Glory of the Church Shall be Rich and Abundant Glory of the Gospel Exceeds That of the Law Glory of the Gospel, Exceeds That of the Law Glory of the Wicked is in Their Shame Glory of the Wicked: Ends in Destruction Glory: Christ Is, to his People Glory: Eternal of God's People Shall be Rich and Abundant Glory: Eternal: Accompanies Salvation by Christ Glory: Eternal: Afflictions of Ministers Are, to Saints Glory: Eternal: Enhanced by Afflictions Glory: Eternal: Enhanced by Present Afflictions Glory: Eternal: Inherited by Saints Glory: Eternal: Present Afflictions not Worthy to be Compared With Glory: Eternal: Procured by the Death of Christ Glory: Eternal: Saints Afore Prepared To Glory: Eternal: Saints Called To Glory: Eternal: Saints Prepared Unto Glory: Eternal: Saints Shall Be, of Their Ministers Glory: Eternal: The Bodies of Saints Shall be Raised In Glory: Saints Shall Be, of Their Ministers Glory: Spiritual is Given by Christ Glory: Spiritual is Given by God Glory: Spiritual is the Work of the Holy Spirit Glory: Temporal is Given by God Glory: Temporal of Hypocrites Turned to Shame Glory: Temporal of the Wicked is in Their Shame Glory: Temporal: Ends in Destruction Glory: Temporal: Seek Not, from Man Glory: Temporal: The Devil Tries to Seduce By Glory: The Bodies of Saints Shall be Raised In Glory: The Gospel Ordained to Be, to Saints Glory: The Joy of Saints is Full of Select Readings: The Glory of God The Glory of God: Enlightens the Church The Glory of God: Exhibited in Christ The Glory of God: Exhibited in His Holiness The Glory of God: Exhibited in His Majesty The Glory of God: Exhibited in His Name The Glory of God: Exhibited in His Power The Glory of God: Exhibited in His Works The Glory of God: Exhibited to His Church The Glory of God: Exhibited to Moses The Glory of God: Exhibited to Stephen The Glory of God: God is Jealous The Glory of God: Highly Exalted The Glory of God: Plead in Prayer The Glory of God: Saints Desire to Behold The Glory of God: The Earth is Full of The Glory of God: The Knowledge of, Shall Fill the Earth Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |