How can understanding Jesus' glory in John 17:5 deepen our worship practices? Scripture Focus “ And now, Father, glorify Me in Your presence with the glory I had with You before the world existed.” (John 17:5) The Eternal Glory Shared with the Father • This glory is literal, not symbolic—Jesus possessed it “before the world existed.” • John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:15-17; Hebrews 1:3 confirm His pre-existence and divine majesty. • Jesus is co-equal with the Father, yet willingly prays for the restoration of His unveiled splendor. • The verse anchors worship in the eternal relationship within the Godhead, showing that our Savior is not merely exalted after the cross; He is eternally glorious. Implications for Worship • Reverence: Recognizing Christ’s eternal glory fosters awe and guards against casual attitudes (Isaiah 6:1-3). • Christ-Centeredness: Worship rightly orients toward the Son, who shares the Father’s very glory (Philippians 2:9-11). • Humility: His willingness to veil that glory for our redemption models self-emptying service. • Confidence: The One we worship now reigns in the glory He has always had; our faith rests on a glorious, sovereign Lord. • Gratitude: Salvation cost the Son a temporary veiling of eternal splendor—fuel for thankful praise. Practical Ways to Respond in Worship • Select songs and readings that highlight Christ’s pre-existent glory (Revelation 5:12-13). • Incorporate Scripture readings that declare His eternal nature (John 1, Colossians 1, Hebrews 1). • Use moments of silent awe to acknowledge His majesty before singing or praying. • Celebrate Communion with explicit mention of the glory Jesus set aside to take on flesh. • Encourage physical postures—kneeling, bowing, lifting hands—to reflect reverence for His eternal greatness. • Test every worship element against the standard: Does this magnify the eternal glory of Jesus? Reflective Takeaways for Daily Worship • Approach every gathering mindful that you meet with the eternally glorious Son. • Let gratitude for His self-emptying shape your service to others. • Confess faith boldly, knowing the One you worship has reclaimed His full glory. • Keep worship God-centered, Scripture-saturated, and Christ-exalting, rejoicing that the glory of John 17:5 now shines upon all who trust in Him. |
    |