Glory: A Biblical Definition

Glory is a central concept in the Bible, referring to the radiant splendor and majesty of God. It is a manifestation of His power, holiness, and transcendence. Understanding the biblical definition of glory is essential for grasping the nature of God and His revelation to humanity.

The Essence of God's Glory

In the Bible, glory is often described as "the glory of the Lord." It is the visible manifestation of His presence and His attributes. When Moses asked to see God's glory, the Lord replied, "I will make all my goodness pass before you..." (Exodus 33:19). This demonstrates that glory is not merely an external attribute but an expression of God's very nature.

Characteristics of God's Glory

God's glory is characterized by its:

• Brightness: It is often described as a blinding light, such as the glory that filled the tabernacle and the temple (Exodus 40:34; 1 Kings 8:11).

• Weightiness: It is said to be a heavy burden, causing those who encounter it to tremble (Isaiah 6:3; Ezekiel 1:28).

• Awe-Inspiring: The glory of God inspires fear and reverence in those who behold it (Revelation 4:9; 7:11).

• Transformative: Encountering God's glory can change a person's life, bringing about repentance and spiritual renewal (Acts 9:3-6; 2 Corinthians 3:18).

The Glory of Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ, as the incarnate Son of God, fully manifests the glory of the Father. He is described as "the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature..." (Hebrews 1:3). His miracles, teachings, and resurrection were all demonstrations of God's glory.

The Future Glory of Believers

According to the Bible, believers in Jesus Christ will share in His glory in the future. They will be transformed into His likeness and dwell in His presence eternally (Romans 8:17; 1 John 3:2). This future glory is a hope and a motivation for Christians to live holy and obedient lives.

The biblical definition of glory emphasizes the radiant splendor and majesty of God, manifested in His presence, attributes, and the person of Jesus Christ. It is a weighty and awe-inspiring concept that transforms lives and inspires believers to strive for a future filled with God's eternal glory.

Glory: Biblical Definition

What is the biblical definition of glory?

The biblical definition of glory is the radiant splendor and majesty of God that is manifested in creation, his presence, and his works. It is a reflection of God's divine nature, revealing his power, holiness, and goodness.

How is glory described in the Bible?

Glory is often described in the Bible as a radiant light, a cloud, or a fire. It is associated with God's presence, his throne, and his dwelling place. Examples include:

• "The glory of the LORD appeared to Moses in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush" (Exodus 3:2).
• "The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, 'The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness'" (Exodus 34:6).
• "And the priests could not enter the house of the LORD, because the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD" (1 Kings 8:11).

What is the purpose of glorifying God?

Glorifying God is the ultimate goal of creation and the highest calling for humans. It means recognizing God's supremacy, acknowledging his worthiness of praise, and reflecting his glory in our lives. When we glorify God, we bring honor to his name and make him known to others.

How can we glorify God?

We can glorify God through:

• Worship and adoration
• Obedience to his commands
• Reflecting his character in our lives
• Sharing the gospel and bringing others to faith in Christ
• Using our gifts and talents for his glory