Topical Encyclopedia
Renown of GodThe concept of God's renown is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, reflecting His reputation, fame, and the awe-inspiring nature of His deeds. God's renown is often associated with His mighty acts and the revelation of His character to humanity. In the Old Testament, God's renown is frequently linked to His deliverance of Israel and His mighty works among the nations. For instance, in
Exodus 9:16 , God declares to Pharaoh, "But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display My power in you and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth."
The Psalms are replete with references to God's renown.
Psalm 145:6-7 states, "They will proclaim the power of Your awesome deeds, and I will declare Your greatness. They will extol the fame of Your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of Your righteousness." Here, the psalmist emphasizes the importance of declaring God's mighty acts and His righteous character, which contribute to His renown.
In the New Testament, the renown of God is further revealed through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 2:9-11 highlights the exaltation of Christ, stating, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." The renown of God is thus intricately connected to the redemptive work of Christ, which brings glory to the Father.
Majesty of GodThe majesty of God refers to His supreme greatness, sovereignty, and the splendor of His divine nature. Throughout Scripture, God's majesty is depicted as unparalleled and awe-inspiring. In the Old Testament, God's majesty is often associated with His creation and His sovereign rule over the universe.
Psalm 93:1 declares, "The LORD reigns, He is robed in majesty; the LORD is robed in majesty and armed with strength. The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved."
The prophet Isaiah also speaks of God's majesty in
Isaiah 6:1-3 , where he describes his vision of the Lord: "In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of His robe filled the temple. Above Him stood seraphim, each having six wings... And they were calling out to one another: 'Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth.'" This passage underscores the overwhelming majesty and holiness of God, as perceived by the prophet.
In the New Testament, the majesty of God is revealed through the person of Jesus Christ, who embodies the fullness of God's glory.
Hebrews 1:3 affirms, "The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature, upholding all things by His powerful word." The majesty of God is thus made manifest in Christ, who upholds the universe and reveals the divine nature to humanity.
The book of Revelation provides a vivid portrayal of God's majesty in the heavenly realm.
Revelation 4:11 proclaims, "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." This doxology reflects the eternal majesty of God, who is worthy of all worship and adoration.
In summary, the renown and majesty of God are central themes in Scripture, highlighting His mighty acts, sovereign rule, and the revelation of His divine nature through Jesus Christ. These attributes inspire worship and reverence, calling believers to proclaim His greatness and live in awe of His majestic presence.