Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature: The glory of God is a central theme in the Bible, representing His majesty, holiness, and the manifestation of His divine presence. It is often described as a radiant, overwhelming light that signifies God's supreme power and authority. The Hebrew word for glory, "kavod," conveys a sense of weightiness or importance, while the Greek term "doxa" emphasizes honor and splendor. Biblical References: God's glory is revealed throughout Scripture, beginning with the creation narrative. In Genesis 1:31, God's creation is described as "very good," reflecting His glory in the perfection and order of the universe. The psalmist declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands" (Psalm 19:1), illustrating how creation itself is a testament to His glory. In the Old Testament, God's glory is often associated with His presence among His people. In Exodus 24:16-17, the glory of the LORD settles on Mount Sinai, appearing as a consuming fire. Similarly, the tabernacle and later the temple are filled with His glory, as seen in Exodus 40:34-35 and 1 Kings 8:10-11, signifying His dwelling among Israel. The prophets also speak of God's glory, often in the context of His redemptive plans. Isaiah 6:3 records the seraphim proclaiming, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; all the earth is full of His glory" . This vision underscores God's holiness and the pervasive nature of His glory. New Testament Revelation: In the New Testament, God's glory is most fully revealed in the person of Jesus Christ. John 1:14 states, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth" . Jesus embodies God's glory, demonstrating it through His teachings, miracles, and ultimately, His death and resurrection. The apostle Paul emphasizes the transformative power of God's glory in the lives of believers. In 2 Corinthians 3:18, he writes, "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" . This passage highlights the ongoing work of sanctification, as believers are conformed to the image of Christ. Eschatological Fulfillment: The ultimate revelation of God's glory is anticipated in the eschatological hope of the new creation. Revelation 21:23 describes the New Jerusalem, stating, "The city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp" . This vision portrays a future where God's glory is fully realized and experienced by His people. Theological Significance: God's glory is integral to understanding His character and His relationship with creation. It underscores His sovereignty, holiness, and the rightful worship He is due. Believers are called to live for God's glory, as Paul exhorts in 1 Corinthians 10:31, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God" . This call to glorify God encompasses all aspects of life, reflecting His glory to the world. Topical Bible Verses Hebrews 1:3Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high: Topicalbible.org 2 Corinthians 3:18 John 1:14 Matthew 24:30 John 17:1-26 Library First Part. The Glory of the Cross Sixth Day. Holiness and Glory. A God in Pain What Has Become of the Gods? The Gods of the Mythic Class the Poets a Very Poor Authority in ... That Christ is God. Conclusion, the Romans Owe not their Imperial Power to their Gods ... That we must Trust in God Only, and in Him we must Glory. In the Creation of the World, and all Things in It, the True God ... Resources Is Jesus a myth? Is Jesus just a copy of the pagan gods of other ancient religions? | GotQuestions.orgDo Christians believe in three gods? | GotQuestions.org What is henotheism / monolatrism / monolatry? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |