Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Nature: The glory of God is a central theme in the Bible, representing His majesty, holiness, and the manifestation of His divine presence. It is often described as a radiant, overwhelming light that signifies God's supreme power and authority. The Hebrew word for glory, "kavod," conveys a sense of weightiness or importance, while the Greek word "doxa" emphasizes honor and splendor.
Biblical References: God's glory is revealed throughout Scripture, beginning with the creation narrative. In
Genesis 1:31, God's creation is described as "very good," reflecting His glory in the perfection and order of the universe. The psalmist declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands" (
Psalm 19:1), illustrating how creation itself testifies to His majesty.
In the Old Testament, God's glory is often associated with His presence among His people. In
Exodus 24:16-17, the glory of the Lord settles on Mount Sinai, appearing as a consuming fire. Similarly, the glory fills the tabernacle (
Exodus 40:34-35) and later the temple (
1 Kings 8:10-11), signifying God's dwelling among the Israelites.
The prophets also speak of God's glory, often in the context of His redemptive plans.
Isaiah 6:3 records the seraphim proclaiming, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." This vision underscores God's holiness and the pervasive nature of His glory.
New Testament Revelation: In the New Testament, God's glory is most fully revealed in the person 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 embodies the glory of God, demonstrating His character and divine nature through His life, death, and resurrection.
The transfiguration of Jesus is a pivotal moment where His divine glory is visibly manifested to Peter, James, and John.
Matthew 17:2 describes how "His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light," providing a glimpse of His heavenly majesty.
The apostle Paul frequently speaks of God's glory in relation to the gospel and the believer's transformation. In
2 Corinthians 3:18, he writes, "And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." This passage highlights the transformative power of God's glory in the life of a believer.
Eschatological Fulfillment: The ultimate revelation of God's glory will occur at the end of the age.
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 the Lamb is its lamp." In the new creation, God's glory will illuminate all things, and His presence will be fully realized among His people.
Theological Significance: God's glory is integral to understanding His nature and His relationship with creation. It emphasizes His transcendence, holiness, and the honor due to Him. Believers are called to live for God's glory, as Paul exhorts in
1 Corinthians 10:31, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God." This call to glorify God encompasses all aspects of life, reflecting His character and purposes in the world.