Topical Encyclopedia Glorying, in the biblical context, refers to the act of boasting or taking pride in something. It is a concept that appears throughout the Scriptures, often with both positive and negative connotations depending on the object of the glorying. The term is closely related to the ideas of honor, praise, and exultation.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, glorying is often associated with the honor and majesty of God. The Hebrew word "halal," which can mean to boast or to praise, is frequently used in the Psalms to describe the act of glorifying God. For example, Psalm 34:2 states, "My soul will boast in the LORD; let the oppressed hear and rejoice." Here, glorying is directed towards God, acknowledging His greatness and inviting others to join in the praise. The prophets also address the concept of glorying, often warning against misplaced pride. Jeremiah 9:23-24 provides a clear admonition: "This is what the LORD says: 'Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor the strong man in his strength, nor the wealthy man in his riches. But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises loving devotion, justice, and righteousness on the earth, for I delight in these things,' declares the LORD." Here, the focus is on the futility of boasting in human achievements and the importance of glorying in the knowledge of God. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of glorying is further developed, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. Paul frequently contrasts worldly boasting with boasting in the Lord. In 1 Corinthians 1:31 , he writes, "Therefore, as it is written: 'Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.'" This echoes the Old Testament teaching and emphasizes that true glorying should be centered on God's work and character. Paul also addresses the issue of glorying in human accomplishments or status. In Galatians 6:14 , he declares, "But as for me, may I never boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." Here, Paul underscores that the only legitimate ground for boasting is the redemptive work of Christ, which transforms the believer's relationship with the world. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, glorying is intimately connected with the concepts of humility and dependence on God. The Bible consistently teaches that human pride and self-reliance are contrary to the nature of true faith. James 4:16 warns, "As it is, you boast in your proud intentions. All such boasting is evil." This highlights the danger of self-centered glorying and the need for a posture of humility before God. Moreover, glorying in the Lord is an expression of trust and confidence in His sovereignty and goodness. It reflects a heart that recognizes God's ultimate authority and rejoices in His providential care. Philippians 3:3 captures this sentiment: "For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and put no confidence in the flesh." Practical Application In practical terms, believers are called to examine the focus of their glorying. The Scriptures encourage a shift from self-centered boasting to a Christ-centered exultation. This involves recognizing the futility of worldly achievements and finding true joy and identity in the person and work of Jesus Christ. As Christians grow in their understanding of God's grace and sovereignty, their glorying becomes a testimony to His transformative power in their lives. Ultimately, glorying in the biblical sense is about aligning one's heart and mind with the truth of God's character and His redemptive plan. It is an invitation to participate in the divine narrative, where God's glory is the ultimate end and purpose of all creation. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Glory.Greek 2746. kauchesis -- a boasting ... kauchesis Phonetic Spelling: (kow'-khay-sis) Short Definition: the act of boasting, exultation Definition: the act of boasting, glorying, exultation. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2746.htm - 6k 2745. kauchema -- a boast 2754. kenodoxia -- vainglory Library Glorying in Christ. Glorying in the Cross; Or, not Ashamed of Christ Crucified. M. Bowring. Glorying in the Cross. Rathbun. Glorying in the Cross. Look Now at the Present State of Christendom, Glorying in the ... Keeping the Law; the Jews' Glorying; the Fear of Punishment; the ... 2 Cor. I. 12 Philippians iv. 14-Oct Second Sunday Before Lent Psalm LII. Thesaurus Glorying (27 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Glorying (27 Occurrences). Romans 3:27 Where then is the glorying? ... (ASV). Romans 11:18 beware of glorying over the natural branches. ... /g/glorying.htm - 14k Upholds (12 Occurrences) Uphold (30 Occurrences) Forget (77 Occurrences) Beware (51 Occurrences) Pride (277 Occurrences) Confidence (103 Occurrences) Vauntings (1 Occurrence) Joyful (83 Occurrences) Leaveneth (2 Occurrences) Resources Is the ACTS formula for prayer a good way to pray? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of Acts - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Glorying: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Glorying (27 Occurrences)Romans 3:27 Romans 11:18 Romans 15:17 1 Corinthians 1:31 1 Corinthians 5:6 1 Corinthians 9:15 1 Corinthians 9:16 1 Corinthians 15:31 2 Corinthians 1:12 2 Corinthians 1:14 2 Corinthians 5:12 2 Corinthians 7:4 2 Corinthians 7:14 2 Corinthians 8:24 2 Corinthians 9:3 2 Corinthians 10:15 2 Corinthians 11:10 2 Corinthians 11:17 2 Corinthians 12:11 Galatians 6:4 Philippians 1:26 Philippians 3:3 Colossians 2:15 1 Thessalonians 2:19 Hebrews 3:6 James 4:16 Psalms 25:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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