Understanding the Kingdom of GodSample

The Glory of the Lord Came Down

In a previous session, we discussed the topic of God’s special presence here on earth. The Old Testament authors often referred to it as the ‘glory’ of the Lord. The Garden of Eden was the first place God’s glory resided on earth. The story of Creation in Genesis 1 can be seen as God building His Temple. Heaven and earth became His dwelling place. This has always been the plan: for God to dwell with His Creation. And humanity is at the center of this plan. God wants to dwell with His image-bearers. Humanity is made to be with Him.

We also see God’s glory residing in the Tabernacle during the Exodus and the Temple in the time of the monarchs. God dwelled amid Israel, His people. However, the Temple was destroyed during the Exile, and God removed His glory from their midst. There was a deep longing for His presence to return. Even after the Temple was rebuilt, the Jews still waited for God’s visible reign to dwell on earth again.

The prologue of the Gospel of John tells us that God’s glory finally returned to earth. Space does not allow for a complete discussion on the theological meaning of John’s use of the term “the Word” in this passage. In relation to our discussion, the Word here refers to God’s glory revealed.

John 1 tells us that Jesus is the Word. He is the revealed glory of God. He was with God the Father and, as a member of the Trinity, God Himself. Yet, He came down and dwelled amid His people. Just as God’s glory dwelled in the Tabernacle, “the Word became flesh and dwelled among us” (John 1:14, ESV). Jesus, who “is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature” (Hebrews 1:3, ESV), came to draw humanity back into God’s presence. Moses saw the glory of the Lord on Mount Sinai. And now, John also says that “we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14, ESV).

From this passage, we learn that God, in and through Jesus, is creating a new Creation, a new humanity, and a new Eden. It is Jesus who carries the very presence of God. He is the true “Temple.” He is the way to God the Father (John 14:6).

In which areas of your life do you see God’s new Creation blossoming? Give praise to Him for that. Where are you still trusting for new life to grow? In prayer, allow God’s presence to renew your hope in Him.