The concept of God's incomprehensible glory is a profound theme woven throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the majesty, holiness, and infinite nature of God. The glory of God is a manifestation of His divine attributes and the splendor of His presence, which is beyond human understanding and description.

Biblical Descriptions of God's Glory

The Bible frequently speaks of God's glory as an overwhelming and awe-inspiring presence. In Exodus 33:18-23, Moses requests to see God's glory, and the Lord responds, "I will cause all My goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim My name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion." However, God also warns Moses that no one can see His face and live, indicating the overwhelming nature of His glory.

In Isaiah 6:1-4, the prophet Isaiah experiences a vision of the Lord seated on a high and exalted throne, with the train of His robe filling the temple. Seraphim call out to one another, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." This passage highlights the holiness and pervasive presence of God's glory.

Manifestations of God's Glory

God's glory is often associated with light and radiance. In the New Testament, the transfiguration of Jesus is a significant event where His divine glory is revealed. Matthew 17:2 describes how Jesus' face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. This event underscores the divine nature of Christ and His unity with the Father.

The glory of God is also evident in His creation. Psalm 19:1 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." The natural world reflects God's glory, pointing to His power and creativity.

God's Glory in Redemption

The glory of God is central to the narrative of redemption. In the incarnation, Jesus Christ embodies the glory of God. 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." Through Christ's life, death, and resurrection, the glory of God is revealed in His plan of salvation.

The Apostle Paul speaks of the transformative power of God's glory in the lives of believers. 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 transformation is a work of the Holy Spirit, conforming believers to the image of Christ.

Eschatological Glory

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 does not need the sun or the 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 be fully manifest, illuminating all things and dwelling with His people eternally.

Human Response to God's Glory

The appropriate response to God's incomprehensible glory is worship, reverence, and awe. Throughout Scripture, encounters with God's glory lead to worship and a recognition of human unworthiness. In Revelation 4:11, the heavenly hosts proclaim, "Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created."

Believers are called to live for the glory of God, reflecting His character and proclaiming His greatness. 1 Corinthians 10:31 exhorts, "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, acknowledging His supreme worth and majesty.