So that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 2:14
What is the ultimate outcome of God’s redeeming purpose? What is the great aim and the ultimate goal of the Christian life? It is the glory of Jesus Christ. What does that mean?
1. You will see Christ’s glory.
This will happen on the day Jesus Christ is revealed. None of us has ever seen Christ. We believe in Him, but we’re walking by faith. It will not always be so. One day we will see Him, and on that day faith will be turned to sight, and all will see Jesus Christ face-to-face.
2. You will share Christ’s glory.
Christ’s glory will not just be something that we see, something that remains external to us; it will be in us. Paul says that “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Rom. 8:18, NIV). When we see Him, we will be like Him (1 John 3:2).
3. You will be glorified in Christ forever.
You will have a body like Christ’s—no pain, no sickness, no weariness—all gone. Your body will be suited to eternal life. You will have a soul like Christ’s. You will love what Christ loves, as Christ loves. You will be free from every inclination to sin and you will share in Christ’s joy.
If you are a believer in Christ, this is your marvelous future. Whatever you face right now, however difficult it is, lift up your mind and see what is yours in Jesus Christ. This will help you stay the course when you’re tired of the battle.
What would keep you from making this the aim of your life?
