Topical Bible: Righteousness: Saints: Shall See God's Face In

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Topical Encyclopedia

Righteousness, as a central theme in the Bible, is often associated with the character and actions of God, as well as the expected conduct of His followers. It is a state of moral purity and uprightness that aligns with God's standards. The concept of righteousness is deeply intertwined with the promise that the saints—those who are deemed righteous through faith and obedience—shall see God's face.

The promise of seeing God's face is a profound and intimate aspect of the believer's hope. In the Scriptures, seeing God's face is synonymous with experiencing His presence and favor. This promise is rooted in the transformative power of righteousness, which enables believers to stand in the presence of a holy God.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible provides several references that highlight the connection between righteousness and the privilege of seeing God's face. In the Beatitudes, Jesus declares, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God" (Matthew 5:8). This purity of heart is a reflection of righteousness, indicating that those who pursue holiness and integrity will be granted the vision of God.

The Apostle John, in his apocalyptic vision, describes the ultimate fulfillment of this promise in the New Jerusalem: "They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads" (Revelation 22:4). This passage underscores the eternal reward for the saints, who, through their righteous standing, are granted the privilege of beholding God's face in the fullness of His glory.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the promise of seeing God's face is significant for several reasons. It represents the culmination of the believer's journey toward holiness and the ultimate reconciliation with God. The saints' ability to see God's face is not based on their own merit but is made possible through the righteousness imputed to them by faith in Jesus Christ. As Paul writes, "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21).

This imputed righteousness transforms the believer, enabling them to live a life that reflects God's character. It is through this transformation that the saints are prepared to enter into God's presence and see His face. The vision of God is both a present reality, experienced through spiritual communion, and a future hope, fully realized in the eschatological fulfillment of God's promises.

Practical Application

For believers, the promise of seeing God's face serves as a motivation for righteous living. It calls Christians to pursue holiness, knowing that their efforts are not in vain but are part of the divine process of sanctification. The anticipation of seeing God face to face encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even amidst trials and tribulations.

Furthermore, this promise provides comfort and assurance, reminding the saints that their ultimate reward is not of this world but is found in the eternal presence of God. It is a reminder that the pursuit of righteousness is not merely a moral obligation but a pathway to the deepest communion with the Creator.

In summary, the promise that the saints shall see God's face is a profound testament to the transformative power of righteousness. It is a hope that sustains believers, urging them to live in a manner worthy of their calling, as they await the glorious day when they will behold the face of God in His eternal kingdom.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 17:15
As for me, I will behold your face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with your likeness.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Blessed Privilege of Seeing God Explained
... will it be to see the Sun of Righteousness displaying himself ... the sight of God be
to the saints in heaven ... indeed it may be said, Your heart shall rejoice' (John ...
/.../the beatitudes an exposition of matthew 51-12/17 the blessed privilege of.htm

"But Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God," &C.
... Speak of what ye will, you shall never draw a ... and therefore Christ is the "King of
saints," Revelation 15 ... For he loves righteousness, and hates iniquity, Psal. ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon xvi but seek ye.htm

The Death of the Righteous
... to see Christ, the Sun of Righteousness, clothed with ... rays and beams of the Godhead
shall display themselves ... will be infinitely delightful to the saints to see ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/1 the death of the.htm

Prison Meditations Directed to the Heart of Suffering Saints and ...
... When he our righteousness forth brings Bright shining as the day ... cost, Yet let us
buy them so; We shall not count ... And let saints be no longer blam'd By carnal ...
/.../the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/prison meditations directed to the.htm

God's Inheritance in the Saints
... imitation of God, in the practice of righteousness, in the ... glory of His inheritance
in the saints.' Now, turn ... the clearest knowledge of what we shall be, and ...
/.../gods inheritance in the saints.htm

Assurance
... God has sown the seed of righteousness in his soul, and this ... To me who am less than
the least of all saints.' Ephesians 3 ... 1.) Want of assurance shall not hinder ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/6 assurance.htm

That Worthy Name.
... and Shield, the Bright and Morningstar, the Sun of Righteousness. ... King, the King
of Israel, King of Saints, King of ... Of us it is written "They shall see His face ...
//christianbookshelf.org/gaebelein/the lord of glory/that worthy name.htm

God's Glory in Hiding Sin
... it ought to be a great stimulus to saints. ... and to bring in everlasting righteousness;"
and that ... never shall go there, but shall see God's face with acceptance ...
/.../spurgeon/sermons on proverbs/gods glory in hiding sin.htm

A Blow at Self-Righteousness
... which is the righteousness of the saints, are caught ... of judgment driven out the darkness
of your self-righteousness? ... me picture to you how devils shall mock you ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 7 1861/a blow at self-righteousness.htm

A view of God's Glory
... my face and live." Clothed in his own righteousness, he must ... I cannot tell whether
even the saints in heaven see God ... seen an angel of the Lord; I shall die." If ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 54 1908/a view of gods glory.htm