The Church Exists to Bring Glory to God
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The Church Exists to Bring Glory to God
by Ron Bryant
"Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly
beyond all that we ask or think, according to the
power that works within us, to Him be glory in the
church and in Christ Jesus to all generations
forever and ever. Amen" (Ephesians 3:20,21). The
redeemed constitute a unique body of people, a
body of divine origin, established to exist as an
entity that brings glory to God throughout all
generations. It is the church’s purpose to bring
glory to God.
This truth is rejected by many. Some reject it
overtly. Others reject it while pretending to
accept it. These posture themselves as members of
the body, but in truth, they never function in
that capacity. They come to the assembly, but only
as observers of the scene. They make token
contributions of their means, but never really
give themselves to the Lord. They sing praises,
perhaps even heartily, but their lives do not fit
the songs they sing. It is painfully obvious that
they do not think in terms of giving glory unto
God, let alone of giving glory unto Him in the
church.
Interestingly, even the most feeble can rise to
the call of giving glory unto God. God has always
accepted the humble and the contrite of heart. He
has always lifted them up (see James 4:8ff). The
humility of man before God is to His glory. The
devotion of man to God is to His glory. Humble
service, loving obedience, ready and willing
worship — all of these can be offered unto God
with the assurance that they bring glory to Him.
Above all else, God wants our hearts and our
lives. It is He who built the church as a place
for us to live and prepare for eternity where we
will continue to glorify Him.
Thanks to The Voice of Truth International, Vol
35, p. 49.
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