The concept of Glory of God in Christianity
The Glory of God encompasses various dimensions of divine majesty and presence, as reflected in Christian theology. It signifies the manifestation of God's attributes, which believers aim to reflect through their lives. Actions taken by Christians should ultimately honor God, reinforcing that even mundane tasks can contribute to His glory. The term also highlights the importance of recognizing God's greatness, particularly in light of Jesus Christ's life and miracles, where the glorification of the Son equally glorifies the Father.
Synonyms: Divine majesty, Divine glory, Majesty of god, Holiness of god, Greatness of god, Sacred glory, Celestial beauty., Divine splendor, Heavenly glory, Divine greatness, Divine brilliance, Divine grandeur, Divine magnificence
In Dutch: Glorie van God; In Finnish: Jumalan kunniaa; In Spanish: Gloria de Dios; In German: Herrlichkeit Gottes; In Malay: Kemuliaan Tuhan; In Swedish: Guds ära; In French: Gloire de Dieu
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Glory of God'
From: Expositions of Holy Scripture
(1) This is the recognition of God's greatness and the increase in people's likeness to Him, which comes from individuals being swift in their condemnation of evil.[1] (2) The primary desire that fills the soul, along with the loving yearning for all of His brethren, which is a central theme.[2] (3) This is a description, and it is associated with the New Jerusalem, and it is the perfect and permanent form of the divine dwelling.[3] (4) This phrase describes the Father's role in the glory of the name of Jesus, stating that the confession of Jesus Christ as Lord enhances the praise directed towards God, because the Son's glorification also glorifies the Father.[4] (5) The visible majesty of the present Deity, which has a very specific meaning in the Old Testament, usually signifying that brightness, the flaming heart of the cloudy pillar.[5]
From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)
(1) This refers to the divine splendor that illuminates the city, eliminating the need for the sun, and it represents a state of perfect and eternal light.[6] (2) This expression refers to the manifestation of God's greatness, encompassing both the self-revelation of His character and being, and His moral governance.[7] (3) In prophetic texts, the glory of God is described as surpassing the need for the moon's light in the future state of His people.[8] (4) The divine presence and character of God that is revealed through the life and work of Jesus, encouraging authentic faith.[9] (5) The ultimate aim of hope, pointing towards the complete realization of His redemption and the coming of His kingdom.[10]
From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature
(1) This phrase refers to the greatness of God, representing a state of divine splendor and honor, often associated with the highest degree of well-being.[11] (2) A concept Jesus refers to in response to Martha's doubt about Lazarus's resurrection, indicating a deeper spiritual truth at stake.[12]
From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository
(1) This concept, when missed, represents a deviation from the intended or righteous path, signifying the consequence of sin.[13] (2) This signifies the ultimate purpose for which all actions should be done, and any expenditure is not considered wasteful when done for this purpose.[14]
From: The Complete Sayings of Jesus
(1) A theological concept indicating the manifestation of God's divine presence and power, particularly through miraculous events.[15]
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This represents the magnificence and splendor of a divine entity, which is revealed through the celestial bodies, highlighting the entity's creative power and the widespread impact of its presence.[16] (2) This is a reference to the glory of God, and it is used to show that all men come short of it, and are not justified of themselves, but by the advent of the Lord.[17] (3) The divine splendor and honor that will envelop those who follow the Lord's teachings.[18] (4) The slaves are encouraged to work harder to achieve a more valuable liberty, which is associated with a divine connection, suggesting that their efforts are a way to honor the divine.[19] (5) The glory of God is a state that all have come short of, and it is connected to the concept of being justified freely by His grace, through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ.[20]
From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary
(1) The magnificent presence and authority of God, which believers are called to reflect in their lives.[21]
From: The Existence and Attributes of God
(1) This refers to the divine entity's splendor and magnificence, and it is revealed through creation, and should inspire individuals to worship the divine entity, and is all around us.[22] (2) The recognition of God's supreme authority and justice, particularly in relation to his ability to judge the secrets of human hearts.[23] (3) Represents the divine attributes and the honor due to God, which can be lost in idolatry or improper worship.[24] (4) The manifestation of God's perfections and attributes that reflect his greatness.[25] (5) The honor and magnificence that is ascribed to God, which man ought to serve and acknowledge.[26]
From: The Second Helvetic Confession
(1) This refers to the state that all have fallen short of, leading to the need for justification by grace through the redemption found in Christ Jesus.[27] (2) Good works should be done for the glory of God, to adorn our calling, to show gratitude to God, and for the profit of the neighbor, according to the text.[28] (3) The interpretation of the Scripture should contribute much to the glory of God and man's salvation.[29]
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) The honor and praise given to God, which is a central principle in religious practice, influencing decisions made by higher prelates in the church, especially concerning matters of jurisdiction.[30] (2) The honor and acknowledgment given to God, which Christ's miracles aimed to reveal, especially to mankind.[31] (3) The glory of God is the honor and reverence that is due to God alone, as distinct from any worldly recognition or human accolades.[32] (4) The divine presence and attributes that the saints in heaven possess, which allows them to have a comprehensive perspective on both the living and the damned.[33] (5) The manifestation of God's excellence, which transcends any physical representation or understanding.[34]
From: The Little Flowers of St. Francis
(1) The reason for Friar Juniper's actions, reflecting a religious devotion that motivates him to seek humiliation.[35]
From: The city of God
(1) This is something that all people have sinned and are in want of, according to the Apostle, as cited in the text.[36]
From: The Kebra Nagast
(1) The sons of mighty men describe their Lady as the heavenly Zion, the habitation of the glory of God, and they have no hope except in her.[37] (2) The divine splendor and holiness of God, which the sinner is warned not to see or experience due to their iniquity.[38]
The concept of Glory of God in local and regional sources
The "Glory of God" represents the vivid embodiment of His majesty, purity, and holiness, often encountered through spiritual visions that reveal His divine nature and significance in the lives of believers.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This represents the magnificence and splendor associated with the divine, and is used in kindergarten teaching to teach children about religion.[39] (2) The power of will can make the mind stop and reflect upon this, which is a way to manage the mind.[40]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The divine attributes and magnificence of God that are to be recognized and worshipped.[41]
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) The manifestation of God's majesty, purity, and holiness, often experienced in spiritual visions.[42]