The term "The Glorified" in Christian theology refers to the state of believers after they have been transformed and perfected in the presence of God. This concept is deeply rooted in the eschatological promises found throughout the New Testament, where the ultimate destiny of the faithful is to share in the glory of God through Jesus Christ.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of glorification is primarily derived from passages in the New Testament that speak of the future transformation and exaltation of believers. In Romans 8:30, the Apostle Paul outlines the process of salvation, stating, "And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." This verse indicates that glorification is the final step in the divine plan of salvation, following predestination, calling, and justification.

In 1 Corinthians 15:42-43, Paul further elaborates on the nature of the glorified body: "So will it be with the resurrection of the dead: What is sown is perishable; it is raised imperishable. It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power." Here, the transformation from a perishable, dishonorable, and weak state to an imperishable, glorious, and powerful one is emphasized, highlighting the radical change that occurs in glorification.

Theological Significance

Glorification is the culmination of the believer's sanctification and the fulfillment of God's redemptive work. It signifies the complete and final transformation of the believer into the likeness of Christ. As stated in Philippians 3:20-21, "But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables Him to subject all things to Himself, will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body."

This transformation is not merely physical but also spiritual and moral. Believers are conformed to the image of Christ, as described in 2 Corinthians 3:18: "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."

Eschatological Hope

The hope of glorification is a central aspect of Christian eschatology. It assures believers of their future inheritance and eternal life with God. In Colossians 3:4, Paul writes, "When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory." This promise of appearing with Christ in glory provides comfort and motivation for believers to persevere in their faith.

The Book of Revelation also speaks to the glorified state of believers, depicting a future where they reign with Christ. Revelation 22:5 states, "There will be no more night in the city, and they will have no need for the light of a lamp or of the sun, for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever."

Practical Implications

The doctrine of glorification has practical implications for the Christian life. It encourages believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling, as they anticipate their future transformation. In 1 John 3:2-3, the Apostle John writes, "Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure."

The anticipation of glorification inspires believers to pursue holiness and to remain steadfast in their faith, knowing that their labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).