Thursday, May 8, 2014

A Word About Divine Glory


The word “doxology” comes from the Greek words doxa, which means “glory,” and logos, which means “word.” A doxology is a word about divine glory. It carries forward the Old Testament meaning of the Hebrew word kabod, which literally means “weight.” As applied to God, it refers to the value and expression of His goodness. The glory of God is the “weight,” or manifestation of His goodness.

A doxology is a prayer that lavishes praise and honor on God. It has two main features: A statement of God’s glory, goodness or praiseworthiness, and an expression of His eternality.

God’s eternality means that He is faithful and that He does not change. Therefore we can trust Him at all times and in every circumstance. The author of Hebrews says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). As He was in the past, so He is today, so He will be forever. In doxology, the portrayal of His eternal attributes becomes a source of stability, comfort and encouragement for us.

In the New Testament epistles, doxological prayers often arise spontaneously, as the writer gets caught up in awe and wonder at the ways and works of God through the Lord Jesus Christ. In the book of Revelation, we get a glimpse into the throne room of God and see the activity of saints and angels cascading their praises in adoration.
To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (Revelation 1:5-6)

Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come! (Revelation 4:8)

You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created. (Revelation 4:11)

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing! … Blessing and honor and glory and power be to Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, forever and ever! (Revelation 5:12-13)

Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom, thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to our God forever and ever. Amen. (Revelation 7:12)
(For more about these and other doxologies in the New Testament, see Praying With Fire: Change Your World with the Powerful Prayers of the Apostles, available in paperback and Kindle.)

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