Called to Glory: Understanding Your Divine Purpose
Called to Glory: Understanding Your Divine Purpose
Are you living a life that reflects the glory of God? Do you feel a sense of purpose beyond simply surviving day-to-day? Many Christians wrestle with the idea of a "called to glory," often associating it solely with a future heavenly reward. However, a deeper understanding reveals that this "glory" is a present reality, shaping our lives here and now, influencing how we interact with the world and those around us. This article explores the multifaceted concept of being called to glory, drawing from various theological perspectives and practical applications.
The biblical concept of being "called to glory" isn't merely a future aspiration; it's a present reality interwoven into our daily lives. 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 speaks of God's choosing of believers for salvation, a process of sanctification and faith that culminates in the "glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." This isn't some distant, ethereal reward; it's a transformative power actively shaping our lives.
Think about how you typically respond to the question, "How are you?" Many answer with a simple "Fine," "Okay," or "Busy," often omitting the richness of their experiences. However, a life characterized by God's glory is far more vibrant. It's a life that doesn't just survive but thrives, reflecting Christ's transformative power even amidst hardship. This glory isn't measured by worldly success but by the radiant reflection of Christ's love, grace, and power in our actions and character.
Living a Life that Glorifies God
Paul's prayers for the Thessalonians, found in 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12, beautifully illustrate this point. He prayed that God would make them worthy of His calling, so that the name of Jesus would be glorified through them. This highlights a proactive role for believers: we aren't passive recipients of glory; we are active participants in manifesting it. Similarly, Jesus himself prayed that his followers might share in His glory (John 17:10, 22). This isn't a passive inheritance; it's a shared experience.
Jesus is glorified not simply by those who endure trials, but by those who, while facing difficulties, live above them, demonstrating peace in chaos and joy in hardship. This is achieved through the unwavering faith that recognizes our position in Christ: made alive with Him, raised with Him, and seated with Him in the heavens (Ephesians 2:5-6). This faith leads to a focus on heavenly things (Colossians 3:2), resulting in a transformed life that naturally points others to Christ. The transformation of Saul into Paul, causing others to glorify God (Galatians 1:24), serves as a powerful example of this transformative power.
Living a life called to glory is not passive; it requires intentionality and consistent effort. It's about showcasing God's grace in ways that inspire others, prompting them to ask, "How does he/she do that?" The answer, of course, is that it's only possible through God's power.
This requires a deliberate focus on Jesus' glory, much like the disciples' experience described in John 1:14: "We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." This constant contemplation of Jesus's glory is crucial. 2 Corinthians 3:18 emphasizes this: "And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory." The continuous gazing upon Jesus leads to a reflection of His glory in our own lives.
Emulating Christ and the Role of the Holy Spirit
Ernest Angley's "Called to Glory and Virtue" emphasizes a life dedicated to God's glory, achieved through emulating Christ and utilizing the power of the Holy Spirit. Angley defines glory as magnificence and beauty, contrasting worldly glory with the divine glory found in a Christ-like life. He stresses reflecting Christ's image, achieved through salvation and a life dedicated to serving others, mirroring Jesus' self-sacrifice. Receiving and yielding to the Holy Spirit is paramount, as it provides the divine virtue and power necessary for a life that reflects God's glory.
This empowerment allows believers to perform miracles and witness to God's glory, mirroring Jesus' ministry. Angley emphasizes faith over doubt, highlighting that doubt hinders God's blessings. He cautions against seeking worldly glory and prioritizing a genuine relationship with God above all else. The active participation in spreading the Gospel through soul-winning and sharing God's love and healing power is also essential.
Holiness: An Inward and Outward Expression of Glory
Linda Reed's "Called to His Glory" offers another perspective, focusing on holistic holiness. It moves beyond the common understanding of salvation as merely deliverance, healing, and an abundant life. The book emphasizes that Jesus's ultimate goal is for believers to share in His eternal glory. This requires a deeper exploration of holiness, encompassing both inward transformation and outward conduct.
Reed likely stresses the practical application of living a holy life. Outward actions, such as modest dress or ethical conduct, are not viewed as separate from inner spiritual growth but as visible manifestations of that inward change. A life lived in accordance with God's principles creates a protective barrier against temptation and enables a more effective witness for Christ. The emphasis on "holiness for our day" suggests a contextualization of biblical principles for contemporary challenges.
Ultimately, our called to glory culminates in our future likeness to Christ upon His return (1 John 3:2). As Matthew 5:16 states, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." By gazing upon Jesus, allowing His glory to shine through us, we fulfill our divine purpose and live a life that reflects His magnificence. This is the essence of being truly called to glory.
Frequently Asked Questions: Called to Glory
What is the central theme of the "Called to Glory" sermon/book?
The central theme revolves around the Christian calling to a life reflecting Christ's glory, not merely surviving but actively participating in God's work. This glory isn't just a future reward but a present reality experienced through transformation, impacting both personal life and witness to others. It emphasizes living a life that showcases God's grace, inspiring others through actions that point to Christ's transformative power. Different interpretations highlight various aspects such as the role of the Holy Spirit, practical holiness, and the importance of reflecting Christ's image in daily life.
How is "glory" defined in the context of "Called to Glory"?
"Glory," in this context, is not defined by worldly success or achievements but by a life reflecting Christ's transformative power. It's manifested through peace in chaos, joy in hardship, and actions that only God could explain. It's a life demonstrating the fruits of the Holy Spirit, actively serving others, and reflecting God's grace and love to the world. Some interpretations add specific elements like magnificence, beauty, and the outward manifestation of inner holiness.
How does one actively participate in this "Called to Glory"?
Actively participating involves a deliberate focus on Jesus' glory through prayer, Bible study, and contemplation of His life and teachings. This continuous contemplation leads to transformation, mirroring His image in our lives. It also involves actively serving others, spreading the Gospel, and living a life that reflects God's holiness, both inwardly and outwardly, in response to God's grace. This might involve specific actions tailored to individual circumstances and situations.
What is the role of the Holy Spirit in achieving this "Called to Glory"?
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role, empowering believers to live a life reflecting Christ's glory. Some interpretations highlight the Holy Spirit's role in providing strength, healing, and righteousness, enabling believers to perform miracles and witness to God's power. The Holy Spirit is viewed as essential for inner transformation and the manifestation of outward holiness.
What are some practical steps to live a life characterized by glory?
Practical steps include: consistent prayer and Bible study, focusing on heavenly things, serving others, striving for holiness in both inward character and outward actions, and sharing the Gospel with others. It's about actively reflecting on and imitating Christ's life and teachings, letting His light shine through our actions, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us in our daily lives. This also involves repenting from sin and actively participating in the work of the church and community.
How does this concept relate to facing trials and hardships?
The sermon/book addresses trials and hardships by emphasizing that glory is not achieved by simply enduring them, but by living above them through faith. This means demonstrating peace amidst chaos, joy in suffering, and a steadfast reliance on God's strength and promises. Trials are seen as opportunities to demonstrate God's power and grace in our lives, shining His light even in difficult circumstances.
What is the ultimate goal or outcome of being "Called to Glory"?
The ultimate goal is to become more Christ-like, reflecting His image and sharing in His eternal glory. This includes living a transformed life that glorifies God here on earth, impacting others, and ultimately sharing in His eternal glory in heaven. The transformation is a continuous process, marked by growth in holiness, and a deeper relationship with God.
