“Salvation is received by God’s grace alone, through faith alone in Christ alone, revealed to us through scripture alone…
… to the glory of God alone”
Two parts to ‘the glory of God alone’
What is the chief purpose of mankind?
“to glorify God and enjoy him forever”
Firstly, the rescue God wins for us and offers us … is the glory of God on display for all to see.
Secondly, the salvation that God wins for us transforms how we live today and what we live for.
What the bible says
a) God’s character
Exodus 33:12 Moses asks
Exodus 33:19 … God replies.
… Moses gets to see that God’s glory is in his character
Psalm 96:2-3 … proclaim the salvation God has won for them
= ‘declaring the glory of God among the nations’
Psalm 19:1, God’s power in creation declares the glory of the Lord.
b) Our purpose in living
Phil 2:11, our confession that Jesus is Lord … glorifies God the Father.
Phil 2:1-4 … how we should be living
… our obedience to God reflects the Father glory.
Psalm 115:1, “Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness”.
1 Cor 10:31 … whatever we do we should be seeking to live for the glory of God in our decision-making process.
Do not misunderstand…
When we are obedient … reflect his glory for others to see
… so that the world we live in might recognise the glory of God that already exists rather than giving that glory to another.
… we can only do this because God’s word and Spirit are working in us.
The context of their stand
…a stunning rebuke of a church that has pursued power and glory for itself.
For us today
a) God is not selfish or egotistical
… when he “makes us live for his glory”.
Glory is rightfully his and when he receives glory we are blessed.
b) We are NOT at the top of the food chain
c) What do you live for?
Are you seeking God’s glory in your life? … Is it evident to your non Christian friends?
… are you able and confident in speaking this message of salvation to others in a winsome way?
Do you find satisfaction in your life when you seek God’s glory in your life?
Is the difference between you and a non Christian more than what you do on a Sunday morning and the fact that you have a slightly different moral code?
How are you using the gifts and talents God has given you? Are you seeking to use them for God’s glory in his world?
Qu:
- What are ways you are captivated by the glory of God?
- How are you seeking to reflect the glory of God in your life?