How does Jude 1:25 connect with God's sovereignty in Romans 11:36? Setting the Stage: Two Doxologies, One Theme Both Jude 1:25 and Romans 11:36 conclude rich theological passages with brief but soaring doxologies. Each verse ascribes every conceivable honor to God, underscoring His unrivaled sovereignty and greatness. Jude 1:25—The Fourfold Glory “to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all time and now and for all eternity. Amen.” • Glory – the radiant display of God’s perfection • Majesty – His royal splendor and kingly status • Dominion – His right to rule over all creation • Authority – His absolute power to act unhindered Notice the time sweep: “before all time and now and for all eternity.” Jude affirms that these attributes are not seasonal or earned; they are eternally inherent to God. Romans 11:36—The All-Embracing Sovereignty “For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen.” • From Him – God is the source • Through Him – God is the means • To Him – God is the end Paul frames God as the origin, sustainer, and goal of everything that exists. Nothing sits outside these three prepositions. Connecting the Doxologies • Same destination: Both verses end with God receiving glory forever. • Same scope: Jude’s “before all time … now … for all eternity” parallels Paul’s “from … through … to.” Past, present, future—every moment is encompassed. • Same exclusivity: Jude calls God “the only God,” while Paul asserts that “all things” issue from and return to Him. • Same mediator: Jude highlights “through Jesus Christ our Lord,” echoing Paul’s insistence that the divine purpose is realized “through Him.” Compare 1 Corinthians 8:6 and Colossians 1:16-17—creation and redemption both flow through Christ. • Same emphasis on sovereignty: Jude’s “dominion” matches Paul’s comprehensive “all things.” Psalm 103:19, Revelation 4:11, and Daniel 4:35 echo this absolute reign. Key Takeaways for Our Worship • God’s sovereignty is not an abstract doctrine; it is the bedrock of worship. He owns every moment and molecule. • Because everything is “from, through, and to” Him, every success or trial finds its meaning in His overarching plan. • Christ is the decisive conduit of God’s glory—our salvation and our praise both come “through Jesus Christ our Lord.” • The only fitting response is continual doxology, matching Jude’s fourfold acclamation and Paul’s unending “Amen.” |
    |