Topical Encyclopedia The "Cloud of Glory," often referred to as the Shekinah Glory, is a significant biblical motif symbolizing God's divine presence, guidance, and protection. This concept is deeply rooted in the narratives of the Old Testament and carries profound implications for the understanding of God's relationship with His people, particularly in the context of the Church.Biblical Foundation The Cloud of Glory first appears in the Exodus narrative, where it serves as a visible manifestation of God's presence among the Israelites. In Exodus 13:21-22 , it is written: "And the LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud to guide their way by day and in a pillar of fire to give them light by night, so that they could travel by day or night. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place before the people." This cloud not only guided the Israelites but also provided protection from their enemies, as seen in Exodus 14:19-20, where the cloud moved between the Israelites and the Egyptian army, creating a barrier. Symbolism and Theological Significance The Cloud of Glory symbolizes God's immanence and His covenantal faithfulness. It represents His willingness to dwell among His people, offering guidance, protection, and assurance of His promises. The cloud's presence over the Tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-38) and later the Temple (1 Kings 8:10-11) further underscores its role as a sign of divine approval and sanctification of sacred spaces. In the New Testament, the Cloud of Glory is echoed in the Transfiguration of Jesus, where a bright cloud envelops Jesus, Moses, and Elijah, and a voice from the cloud declares, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" (Matthew 17:5). This event highlights the continuity of God's presence from the Old Covenant to the New, affirming Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. Protection of the Church The concept of the Cloud of Glory extends to the Church, which is seen as the new Israel, the spiritual community of God's people. Just as the cloud protected and guided the Israelites, the Church is assured of God's protection and guidance through the Holy Spirit. In John 14:16-17 , Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit, the "Helper," who will be with believers forever, guiding them into all truth. The Apostle Paul speaks of the Church as the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16), indicating that God's presence now dwells within the community of believers. This indwelling presence serves as a source of protection against spiritual adversaries and a guide in the mission of the Church. Eschatological Hope The Cloud of Glory also carries eschatological significance, pointing to the ultimate protection and vindication of the Church at the end of the age. In Revelation 21:3 , the vision of the New Jerusalem includes the declaration: "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God." This promise assures believers of God's eternal presence and protection, culminating in the full realization of His kingdom. In summary, the Cloud of Glory serves as a powerful symbol of God's enduring presence and protection over His people, from the Israelites in the wilderness to the Church today. It reassures believers of God's faithfulness and His commitment to guide and protect His Church until the consummation of His divine plan. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 4:5And the LORD will create on every dwelling place of mount Zion, and on her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for on all the glory shall be a defense. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Yoke of Jesus. The Service Common to Two or Many Apostles. Sermon at the Faribault Celebration of the Centennial of the ... The Service Common to the Festivals of the Holy virgin. On the Words, and in one Holy Catholic Church, and in the ... The Service Common to Two or Many Hierarchs. Spoken in Antioch in the Old Church, as it was Called... Period ii. The Church from the Permanent Division of the Empire ... The Secret of Gladness Seances Historiques De Geneve --The National Church. Resources What is a glory cloud? Is a glory cloud biblical? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night signify? (Exodus 13:21-22) | GotQuestions.org Who are "the cloud of witnesses" mentioned in 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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