The Glory of God in the Christian Life
Exploring the presence, departure, and return of God's glory through biblical examples and spiritual insight.
Introduction: The Question of God's Glory
Have you ever considered whether the glory of God is present or absent in your life or church? Let's explore what Scripture teaches about the glory of God and its significance.
7 Now if the ministry of death, which was engraved in letters on stone, came with such glory that the Israelites could not gaze at the face of Moses because of its fleeting glory,
8 will not the ministry of the Spirit be even more glorious?
9 For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry of righteousness!
10 Indeed, what was once glorious has no glory now in comparison to the glory that surpasses it.
11 For if what was fading away came with glory, how much greater is the glory of that which endures!
12 Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold.
13 We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to keep the Israelites from gazing at the end of what was fading away.
14 But their minds were closed. For to this day the same veil remains at the reading of the old covenant. It has not been lifted, because only in Christ can it be removed.
15 And even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts.
16 But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.
17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
The Superiority of the New Covenant
Paul emphasizes that the ministry of the Spirit, which is part of the New Testament, is more glorious than the Old Testament system, which involved the letter that kills but the Spirit that gives life.
The Glory of the Old Testament
The glory on Mount Sinai, described as devouring fire, represents God's presence. However, this glory was temporary and has been replaced by a more enduring glory through the Spirit.
The Loss of Glory in Israel's History
The story of Ichabod, meaning 'the glory is departed,' reminds us that God's glory can leave a person or nation when they turn away from Him. The Ark of the Testimony was a symbol of God's presence and Word.
King Saul and the Departure of God's Spirit
King Saul's tragic story illustrates how God's glory left him due to disobedience and pride. Despite praying, his heart was not aligned with God's will, leading to spiritual separation.
Samson's Unawareness of the Departure
Samson, once empowered by God's Spirit to perform mighty feats, did not realize when the glory left him. His story shows the danger of spiritual complacency and unrepentance.
The Return of God's Glory: A Testament of Mercy
Even in failure, God's mercy can restore His glory. Samson's prayer at the temple and his death demonstrate how God's power can be regained through genuine repentance.
David's Sin and the Departure of Glory
King David experienced God's glory leaving him after his sin with Bathsheba. His repentance and prayer highlight the importance of confessing sin to restore fellowship with God.
Application: Recognizing and Restoring God's Glory
We must be aware of the subtle departure of God's glory in our lives and seek repentance. The Spirit's presence empowers us to live godly lives and witness effectively for Christ.
Conclusion: A Prayer for God's Glory
Let us pray for the return of God's glory in our churches and lives, asking the Spirit to fill us anew and manifest His power for His glory alone.
