Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Nature God's supreme glory refers to the ultimate and unparalleled majesty, splendor, and holiness of God. It is the manifestation of His divine attributes and the radiance of His presence. The glory of God is intrinsic to His nature and is revealed through His creation, His acts in history, and His redemptive work through Jesus Christ.
Biblical Foundations The Bible frequently speaks of God's glory as an essential aspect of His being. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word "kabod" is often used to describe God's glory, signifying weightiness or honor. In the New Testament, the Greek word "doxa" conveys the idea of brightness, splendor, and majesty.
Creation and Glory God's glory is evident in 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 creative power and majesty, pointing to His supreme glory.
Manifestation in the Tabernacle and Temple In the Old Testament, God's glory was visibly manifested in the tabernacle and later in the temple.
Exodus 40:34-35 describes how "the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle." Similarly,
1 Kings 8:10-11 recounts that "when the priests came out of the Holy Place, the cloud filled the house of the LORD, so that the priests could not stand there to minister because of the cloud; for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD."
The Incarnation of Christ The supreme glory of God 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 is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being (
Hebrews 1:3).
Redemption and Glory God's glory is also displayed in His redemptive work.
Ephesians 1:12 speaks of believers being "for the praise of His glory." The salvation of humanity through Christ's sacrifice is a testament to God's glorious grace and mercy.
Eschatological Glory The ultimate revelation of God's glory will occur at the end of time.
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 eschaton, God's glory will be fully realized and eternally celebrated by all creation.
Human Response to God's Glory Believers are called to recognize and respond to God's supreme glory.
1 Corinthians 10:31 exhorts, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God." Worship, obedience, and a life that reflects God's character are ways in which humans can honor His glory.
Conclusion While God's supreme glory is beyond full human comprehension, it is a central theme throughout Scripture, inviting believers to worship, reverence, and live in a manner that reflects His divine majesty.