Tuesday, November 28, 2017

Worship Is The Aim Of Every Stage Of Redemption

In regard to predestination, "he predestined us...to the praise of his glory" (Eph. 1:5, 14). Not just to know it but to praise it. The aim is worship.

In regard to creation, the heavenly beings cry out, "Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things" (Rev. 4:11). Everlasting worship in heaven happens precisely in response to God's creating all things.

In regard to Christ's incarnation and saving death, the angels of heaven cry, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” (Rev. 5:12). The glory of Christ's saving work will be worshiped forever.

In regard to propitiation, and the great work of Christ's decisive wrath-removing ransom, heaven worships with a new song, saying, “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation" (Rev. 5:9).

In regard to the sanctification of God's people, Paul tells us that the ultimate aim of being "filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God" (Phi. 1:11). Not just glory but also praise. Which makes explicit that the aim of holiness in the Christian life is that God is worshiped.

And in regard to the consummation of all things at the second coming of Christ, the aim is not just that his glory might be seen, but that it might "be marveled at among all who have believed" (2 Thess. 1:10).

Adapted from Reading the Bible Supernaturally by John Piper

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