By Laura K. Springer, Th.M., Ph.D.
Additional Passages: Psalm 19; Romans 1:20; Matthew 28:16-20
Humanity was created to portray God’s glory generally, and Israel was chosen to shine his light before the nations. Similarly, the church has been formed to glorify Christ before a lost world.
Many members and one body. The church is one body with many members. We come from every nation and language, from multitudes of generations, cultures, and peoples. Differences abound. Yet the church is one. Together, we glorify Jesus before the world. We do this by valuing him above all differences, allowing diversity to show the world the glorious results of his amazing grace. We are one people of God in Christ, composed of persons from all walks of life, all socioeconomic levels, and all cultures. Unity amidst such diversity is an amazing thing.
In the world. Wherever we are in the world, the church declares Jesus as the only means and end of salvation. Together, we gather in groups across the globe, sing praise to our God, and preach his truth in the cultures and neighborhoods surrounding each congregation. Then we spread out into the God-given mission field of daily life, living and speaking Jesus’ glorious name.
To glorify God. We have the unique privilege of being the principal means of God’s glorification in the world. Now, all of creation declares his glory by proclaiming his divinity and power. But the church has the honor of telling the story of Jesus. We glorify God by showing the world what it looks like to be the children of the Father, who sent the Son, loves the Son, and loves the followers of the Son. We glorify God by making followers of Jesus wherever we go, immersing them in his name and truth.
Through life together. We do not merely glorify God as disconnected individuals, for we are the gathering of those who trust Christ. We are the gathering of those who are being transformed into his image by the Spirit. By loving and building up one another in our meetings and worship services, we work alongside the Spirit as he transforms us into the likeness of Christ. By working together to love and serve our neighbors, we work alongside the Spirit as he reveals the glory and grace of Christ.
