The Doctrine of Salvation - Part 3 - Glorification

Definition

Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Second Edition) Explanation and Scriptural Basis > Chapter 42: Glorification (Receiving a Resurrection Body)

Glorification is the final step in the application of redemption. It will happen when Christ returns, raises from the dead the bodies of all believers for all time who have died, reunites them with their souls, and changes the bodies of all believers who remain alive, thereby giving all believers at the same time perfect resurrection bodies like his own.

Three Aspects of Glorification

The Glorification of our Souls

Perfects us morally and spiritually

Colossians 1:22 “he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him,”

Brings about fullness of knowledge

1 Corinthians 13:12 “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.”

The Glorification of our Bodies

Christian Theology The Glorification of the Believer

The present body is perishable, subject to disease and death; the resurrection body is incorruptible, immune to disease and decay.

2. The present body is sown in dishonor; the resurrection body will be glorious.

3. The present body is weak; the resurrection body is powerful.

4. The present body is physical (ψυχικόν—psuchikon); the resurrection body will be spiritual.

The Renewal of Creation

Romans 8:18-25 “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.”

Revelation 21:1-2 “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.”