The power and glory of God are central themes throughout the Bible, reflecting His divine nature, authority, and majesty. These attributes are evident in His creation, His interactions with humanity, and His ultimate plan for redemption.

Power of God

The power of God is demonstrated from the very beginning of Scripture. In Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This act of creation ex nihilo (out of nothing) showcases His omnipotence. God's power is further illustrated in the sustaining of the universe, as Hebrews 1:3 states, "The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature, upholding all things by His powerful word."

Throughout the Old Testament, God's power is displayed in His deliverance of Israel. In Exodus, God demonstrates His might through the plagues in Egypt and the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22). The psalmist declares, "The LORD is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation" (Psalm 118:14), acknowledging God's power in providing victory and salvation.

In the New Testament, the power of God is most profoundly revealed in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Romans 1:4 affirms, "and who through the Spirit of holiness was appointed the Son of God in power by His resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord." This event not only confirms Christ's divinity but also assures believers of their future resurrection and eternal life.

Glory of God

The glory of God is His inherent majesty and splendor, often associated with His presence. In the Old Testament, God's glory is manifested in theophanies, such as the burning bush (Exodus 3:2-5) and the pillar of cloud and fire that guided Israel (Exodus 13:21-22). The glory of God filled the tabernacle (Exodus 40:34) and later the temple (1 Kings 8:10-11), signifying His dwelling among His people.

The prophets also speak of God's glory, as Isaiah 6:3 records the seraphim proclaiming, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; all the earth is full of His glory." This vision emphasizes God's holiness and the pervasive nature of His glory.

In the New Testament, the glory of God is revealed in the person of Jesus Christ. John 1:14 declares, "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 ultimate revelation of God's glory, embodying His character and mission.

The apostle Paul speaks of believers reflecting God's glory, as they are transformed into the image of Christ. 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."

Interconnection of Power and Glory

The power and glory of God are often intertwined, as His mighty acts reveal His glorious nature. Psalm 145:11-12 proclaims, "They will tell of the glory of Your kingdom and speak of Your might, to make known to men Your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of Your kingdom." God's power is not only a demonstration of His ability but also a reflection of His glorious character.

In the eschatological vision of Revelation, God's power and glory are fully realized. Revelation 19:1 declares, "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God!" This proclamation anticipates the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom, where His power and glory will be eternally celebrated by all creation.