What does "in whom I will be glorified" mean for believers today? Verse in Focus “He said to Me, ‘You are My Servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified.’” (Isaiah 49:3) The Original Setting • Isaiah speaks of the “Servant” whom God appoints. • At one level, “Israel” refers to the nation called to reflect God’s glory among the nations (Exodus 19:5-6). • At a deeper, prophetic level, the Servant is the coming Messiah who perfectly embodies Israel’s calling (Isaiah 42:1-7; Matthew 12:17-21). Christ: The Ultimate Servant • Jesus fulfills Isaiah 49:3 by living in flawless obedience, revealing the Father’s character (John 14:9). • At the cross and empty tomb, the Father’s glory shines through the Son’s humility and victory (John 12:27-28; Philippians 2:8-11). • God’s promise, “in whom I will be glorified,” reaches its climax as Christ is exalted to the right hand of the Father (Hebrews 1:3). Believers United to the Servant • By faith, we are “in Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:17); His calling becomes ours (John 17:22-23). • Jesus identifies His followers as those through whom the Father intends to show His glory (John 15:8). • The Spirit indwells us so the life of Jesus is displayed in mortal flesh (2 Corinthians 4:6-10). How God Is Glorified in Us Today • Reflecting His character – Love that mirrors His love (1 John 4:12). – Holiness that separates us from the world’s darkness (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Bearing fruit that lasts – Obedient living produces visible fruit, proving discipleship (John 15:5, 8). • Proclaiming His gospel – Our testimony of Jesus’ saving work magnifies God’s grace (Ephesians 1:6, 12). • Persevering through trials – Suffering with hope showcases His sustaining power (1 Peter 4:12-16). • Walking in unity – The church’s oneness signals His glory to a watching world (John 17:21-23). Practical Takeaways • Abide in Christ daily; His life within empowers God-glorifying conduct. • Evaluate choices by one question: “Will this display God’s worth?” (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Use gifts and opportunities for service, not self-promotion (1 Peter 4:10-11). • Embrace suffering as a platform for praise, trusting the Spirit to shine through weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Scriptures to Remember • Isaiah 49:3 – “in whom I will be glorified.” • John 15:8 – “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit.” • 2 Corinthians 4:7 – “We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this surpassingly great power is from God and not from us.” |
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