Topical Bible: The Dead: Characterised by Inability to Glorify God

◄ The Dead: Characterised by Inability to Glorify God ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, the concept of death extends beyond the physical cessation of life to encompass a spiritual separation from God. This separation is marked by an inability to glorify God, a theme that is woven throughout Scripture. The dead, in both physical and spiritual senses, are depicted as being unable to participate in the worship and praise that are due to God.

Physical Death and the Inability to Praise God

The Bible frequently associates physical death with silence and inactivity, particularly in the context of worship and praise. In Psalm 115:17 , it is stated, "It is not the dead who praise the LORD, nor any who descend into silence." This verse underscores the belief that those who have died are no longer able to join the living in glorifying God. Similarly, Psalm 6:5 declares, "For there is no mention of You in death; who can praise You from Sheol?" Here, Sheol is depicted as a place of silence where the dead cannot engage in the worship of God.

Spiritual Death and Separation from God

Beyond physical death, the Bible speaks of a spiritual death that results from sin, which also renders individuals incapable of glorifying God. Ephesians 2:1 describes this state: "As for you, you were dead in your trespasses and sins." This spiritual death is characterized by a separation from the life-giving presence of God, rendering individuals unable to fulfill their purpose of glorifying Him.

The Hope of Resurrection and Restoration

While the dead are characterized by an inability to glorify God, the Bible also offers hope through the promise of resurrection and restoration. In John 11:25 , Jesus proclaims, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies." This promise points to a future where the dead in Christ will be raised to new life, fully restored to glorify God eternally.

The Role of the Living

The living, in contrast to the dead, are called to actively glorify God. Psalm 146:2 expresses this call: "I will praise the LORD all my life; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being." The living are urged to use their time on earth to honor and worship God, recognizing that this opportunity ceases with death.

Conclusion

The biblical portrayal of the dead as unable to glorify God serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of living a life dedicated to His praise. Through the hope of resurrection, believers are assured that death is not the final word, and that they will one day be restored to glorify God eternally.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 115:17
The dead praise not the LORD, neither any that go down into silence.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Pilgrim's Progress
... When little tripping maidens follow God, And leave old doting sinners to His rod;
'Tis like those days wherein the young ones cried, Hosanna! ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm