Topical Encyclopedia The "Cloud of Glory" is a significant biblical motif that symbolizes the divine presence and majesty of God, often associated with the manifestation of His glory. In the context of the New Testament, this concept is intricately linked to the glory of Christ, who is the visible representation of God's presence among humanity.Old Testament Background The imagery of the cloud as a representation of God's glory is rooted in the Old Testament. The cloud served as a visible sign of God's presence with His people. In Exodus, the Lord led the Israelites through the wilderness by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22). This cloud was not merely a guide but a manifestation of God's protective and guiding presence. At Mount Sinai, the cloud covered the mountain, and the glory of the Lord settled upon it, signifying the divine presence as Moses received the Law (Exodus 24:15-18). The cloud also filled the Tabernacle, indicating that God's glory had taken residence among His people (Exodus 40:34-35). The Glory of Christ In the New Testament, the concept of the "Cloud of Glory" finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. The Gospel of John declares, "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" (John 1:14). Here, the glory of Christ is the visible manifestation of God's presence, grace, and truth. The Transfiguration A pivotal event that highlights the glory of Christ is the Transfiguration. In this event, Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a high mountain, where He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. A bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" (Matthew 17:5). The cloud here signifies the divine presence, affirming Jesus' identity as the Son of God and His divine glory. The Ascension and Return The cloud also plays a role in the ascension of Christ. After His resurrection, Jesus was taken up into heaven, and a cloud received Him out of the disciples' sight (Acts 1:9). This event signifies His exaltation and return to the Father's glory. The angels present at the ascension assured the disciples that Jesus would return in the same manner, "This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven" (Acts 1:11). Theological Significance The "Cloud of Glory" as it pertains to Christ underscores His divine nature and the fulfillment of Old Testament promises. It affirms His role as the mediator between God and humanity, the one who reveals the Father and brings His presence to His people. The glory of Christ is not only a past event but a present reality and future hope for believers, as they anticipate His return in glory. In summary, the "Cloud of Glory" serves as a profound symbol of the divine presence, encapsulating the majesty, holiness, and redemptive work of Christ. Through Him, the glory of God is made manifest, offering believers a glimpse of the eternal kingdom and the promise of His abiding presence. Torrey's Topical Textbook Revelation 10:1And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud: and a rainbow was on his head, and his face was as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Ambassadors for Christ The Lord of Glory. The Same Conclusion Supported by the Transfiguration Marcion ... Light of a Stone Most Precious Honour and Glory unto Him. Sixth Day. Holiness and Glory. He was Transfigured Christ Hath Left the Dismal Tomb; -- The Beauty and Glory of the Risen Body. The Fact of the Redeemer's Return had a Spectacular Setting Forth ... Resources What does it mean that God is the King of glory? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of Hebrews 12:2? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to 'run the race set before us' (Hebrews 12:1)? | GotQuestions.org Cloud: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Cloud of Glory was Dark to the Enemies of Israel Cloud of Glory was Designed to Cover the Tabernacle Cloud of Glory was Designed to Defend Israel Cloud of Glory was Designed to Guide Israel Cloud of Glory was Designed to Regulate the Movements of Israel Cloud of Glory was Designed to Show Light to Israel Cloud of Glory was the Shekinah Over the Mercy-Seat Cloud of Glory: Called: Cloud of the Lord Cloud of Glory: Called: Cloudy Pillar Cloud of Glory: Called: Pillar of Cloud and Pillar of Fire Cloud of Glory: Called: The Cloud Cloud of Glory: Called: The Presence of God Cloud of Glory: Continued During the Journeyings of Israel Cloud of Glory: First Manifestation of Cloud of Glory: God Came Down In Cloud of Glory: God Spoke From Cloud of Glory: God's Glory Manifested In Cloud of Glory: Manifested in the Temple of Solomon Cloud of Glory: Our Lord Shall Make his Second Appearance In Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At Christ's Ascension Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At Christ's Transfiguration Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At Giving of the Law Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At Sedition of Aaron and Miriam Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At the Murmuring for Bread Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At the Murmuring of Israel on Account of Korah's Death Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At the Murmuring of Israel on the Report of the Spies Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At the Rebellion of Korah Cloud of Glory: The Glory of Christ Cloud of Glory: The Protection of the Church Cloud: Appearances of in Ezekiel's Vision Related Terms |
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