God's Glory

The concept of God's glory is central to the biblical narrative, representing His divine majesty, holiness, and the manifestation of His presence. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for glory, "kavod," often signifies weightiness or worthiness, reflecting God's supreme honor and splendor. God's glory is both an intrinsic attribute and a visible manifestation of His divine nature.

In Exodus 33:18-23, Moses requests to see God's glory, and the LORD responds by allowing His goodness to pass before Moses while shielding him from the full radiance of His glory, which no human can fully endure. This passage highlights the overwhelming and awe-inspiring nature of God's glory. The glory of God is also associated with the tabernacle and the temple, where His presence dwelt among His people (Exodus 40:34-35; 1 Kings 8:10-11).

The Psalms frequently celebrate God's glory, as seen in Psalm 19:1: "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." Here, creation itself is a testament to God's majestic glory, revealing His power and divine nature.

In the New Testament, the Greek word "doxa" is used for glory, emphasizing honor and praise. The incarnation of Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation of God's glory. 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, revealing His character and purpose.

The transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17:1-8) provides a glimpse of His divine glory, witnessed by Peter, James, and John. This event foreshadows the future revelation of Christ's glory at His second coming. The Apostle Paul speaks of believers being transformed into the image of Christ, "from glory to glory" (2 Corinthians 3:18), indicating a progressive sanctification and reflection of God's glory in their lives.

Revelation of God

God's revelation refers to the ways in which He makes Himself known to humanity. This revelation is both general and special. General revelation is accessible to all people through nature and conscience. Romans 1:20 declares, "For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse." This passage underscores that creation itself reveals God's existence and attributes.

Special revelation, on the other hand, is God's specific disclosure of Himself through miraculous means, including His Word and the person of Jesus Christ. The Bible, as the inspired Word of God, is the primary source of special revelation. 2 Timothy 3:16 affirms, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness."

The ultimate revelation of God is found in Jesus Christ. Hebrews 1:1-3 states, "In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom He made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature, upholding all things by His powerful word." Jesus is the full and final revelation of God, embodying His nature and will.

The Holy Spirit also plays a crucial role in revelation, guiding believers into all truth (John 16:13) and illuminating the Scriptures. Through the Spirit, believers gain understanding and insight into God's Word and His purposes.

In summary, God's glory and revelation are intricately connected, with His glory being both a revelation of His divine nature and a call for humanity to respond in worship and obedience. Through creation, Scripture, and the person of Jesus Christ, God reveals Himself, inviting all to know Him and partake in His divine glory.