A Word to the Wise – 10-28-2015

by Dr. Walter Olsen

What is the glory of the church? Often people think a nice building, a talented church staff, or a lot of special programs are the glory of the church. However, a church could have all of these things and still know nothing of true glory.

The glory of the church is God Himself. When He is given the proper place in the worship and function of the church, then they will know something of His glory. The Apostle John, in speaking of the events of the tribulation time said, “And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; salvation and glory, and honor, and power, unto the Lord our God” (Rev. 19:1). God Himself is the glorious One. People share in His glory when they come to faith in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Apart from Him, there is no glory in the church regardless of how attractive the personnel, buildings, and programs of the church may be. However, when God is given His rightful place in the hearts of the people, His glory may be evidenced in the various facets of the church. The problem comes when we assume we may glorify God apart from His presence. Man, by himself, can in no way attain to the glory of God. Thankfully, He will reveal His glory in all who trust and submit to Him.