Glorification

GLORIFICATION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 3:20-21

"For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself."

Supporting Texts:

Romans 8:30, 1 Corinthians 15:51-53, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Colossians 3:4, 1 John 3:2

INTRODUCTION

Glorification is the final stage of the believer's salvation experience, where we will be transformed into the fullness of God’s glory. While justification declares us righteous and sanctification purifies us, glorification is the ultimate completion of our redemption. It is the moment when we will receive glorified bodies, free from sin, sickness, and death, and live eternally in the presence of God.

The Bible teaches that glorification is a promise for every believer who endures to the end. It is the fulfilment of God’s divine plan to restore humanity to the glory that was lost in the Garden of Eden. Jesus, after His resurrection, was glorified and became the firstborn among many brethren (Romans 8:29). In the same way, believers will share in His glory when He returns.

Understanding glorification gives us hope and strengthens our faith. It reminds us that the trials and sufferings of this present world are temporary and that an eternal reward awaits us. In this study, we will explore the meaning, process, and importance of glorification, along with biblical examples.

1. THE MEANING OF GLORIFICATION

a) Glorification is the final transformation of believers (1 Corinthians 15:51-53)

Our mortal bodies will be changed into immortal, glorified bodies.

b) It is the fulfilment of God’s salvation plan (Romans 8:30)

Those whom God justified, He also glorified.

c) It means being fully conformed to the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18)

We will reflect Christ’s perfect holiness and righteousness.

d) It marks the end of sin, suffering, and death (Revelation 21:4)

In our glorified state, there will be no more pain or sorrow.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus Christ (Philippians 2:9-11)

Jesus was glorified after His resurrection and ascended to the Father.

2. THE PROCESS OF GLORIFICATION

a) It begins with justification and sanctification (Romans 8:29-30)

Glorification is the final step after justification and sanctification.

b) It will happen at the second coming of Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)

Believers will receive their glorified bodies when Christ returns.

c) The resurrection of the dead in Christ is part of glorification (1 Corinthians 15:42-44)

The bodies of believers will be raised in incorruptible glory.

d) It will be completed when we are with God eternally (Revelation 22:3-5)

We will dwell in the presence of God in His full glory forever.

e) Biblical Example: Moses and Elijah (Matthew 17:2-3)

They appeared in glory with Jesus at the Mount of Transfiguration.

3. THE IMPORTANCE OF GLORIFICATION

a) It assures us of our eternal inheritance (Colossians 3:4)

When Christ appears, we shall appear with Him in glory.

b) It gives us hope and endurance in trials (Romans 8:18)

The sufferings of this present time are nothing compared to future glory.

c) It motivates us to live a holy life (1 John 3:2-3)

Knowing that we will be glorified, we should purify ourselves.

d) It marks the end of our spiritual journey (Hebrews 12:2)

Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith, leading us to glory.

e) Biblical Example: Stephen (Acts 7:55-56)

Before his death, Stephen saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at His right hand.

4. HOW TO PREPARE FOR GLORIFICATION

a) Remain steadfast in faith (Hebrews 10:35-36)

We must endure in faith to receive the promise of eternal glory.

b) Live in holiness and obedience (2 Peter 3:11-12)

A pure life prepares us for the coming of the Lord.

c) Keep your hope alive in Christ (Titus 2:13)

Our blessed hope is the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ.

d) Walk in the Spirit, not in the flesh (Galatians 5:16-17)

Those led by the Spirit will inherit eternal life.

e) Biblical Example: Paul (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

Paul finished his race and looked forward to the crown of righteousness.

CONCLUSION

Glorification is the ultimate reward for believers who remain faithful to Christ. It is the completion of our salvation, where we will receive new, incorruptible bodies and live eternally in the glory of God. The trials of this world are temporary, but the glory that awaits us is eternal.

As we await the coming of our Lord, we must continue to walk in holiness, faith, and perseverance. Our glorification is certain because God has promised it. Let us remain steadfast, knowing that a glorious future is ahead of us in Christ.

PRAYER POINTS

1.  Lord, help me to live a life worthy of the glory You have prepared for me.