Know God’s Glory

John 17:22-23 “I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: 23 I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”
 
TO continue from the previous scripture, Jesus remains in prayer for God’s people to be as one church united in God. This unity will increase as we understand the glory Jesus has given us. What, then, does Jesus mean when he prays, “I have given them (the disciples) the glory that you gave me that they may be one as we are one”?  
   God’s glory is God’s splendor and holy character. Jesus has given to his disciples then and throughout history the splendor and holiness of belonging to God. This is about the Holy Spirit sanctifying us into God’s holiness through the forgiveness of our sins in Jesus. Jesus has displayed God’s glory through his incarnation, resurrection and ascension. As we confess Christ, then, we become one church, united in our confession of Jesus’ glorious work.
   What happens when God’s people on earth know and understand God’s glory and holy character? First, we become more submissive to God in our obedience and worship. Second, we become more loving toward God and toward one another. Division disappears when God’s people truly know God’s holy splendor has transformed their lives. United in God’s glory and holy character, a church is unstoppable to do God’s will on earth.
   Receive the glory of God Jesus has revealed to you. Know the glory of God is to understand his beauty, purity and love. The more we understand God has gifted us with his glory and his holiness, the more we will ascribe – give – to the Lord our true worship: 1 Chronicles 16:27 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy in his dwelling place. 28 Ascribe to the Lord, O families of nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength, 29 ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name. Bring an offering and come before him; worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness. Listen and receive Jesus’ prayer for your life. Understand the praise of 1 Chronicles is an example for your worshipful heart. Rejoice and be glad!
 
Prayer: Father in Heaven, holy be your name. May I live as one with all of your people on earth, proclaiming your glory, worshiping you because you are holy. Amen.