The Glory of Christ
Christ's Glory as God's Representative
We must not rest satisfied with only an idea of this truth or a bare assent to the doctrine. Its power must stir our hearts. What is the true blessedness of the saints in heaven? Is it not to behold and see the glory of God in delight? And do we expect, doe we desire the same state of blessedness? If so, then know that it is our present view of the glory of Christ which we have by faith that prepares us for that eternal blessedness. These things may be of little use to some who are babes in knowledge and understanding or who are unspiritual, lazy, and unable to retain these divine mysteries (1Cor.3:1-2; Heb.5:12-14). But that is why Paul declared this wisdom of God in a mystery to them that were perfect, that is, who were more advanced in spiritual knowledge who had had their 'senses exercised to discern both good and evil (Heb.5:14). It is to those who are experienced in the meditation of invisible things, who delight in the more retired paths of faith and love, that they are precious. We believe in God only in and through Christ. This is the life of our souls. God himself, whose nature is infinitely perfect, is the highest object of our faith. But we cannot come directly to God by faith. We must come by the way and by the helps he has appointed for us. This is the way by which he has revealed his infinite perfections to us, which is Jesus Christ who said, 'I am the way.' By our faith in Christ we come to put our faith in God himself (Jn.14:1). And we cannot do this in any other way but by beholding the glory of God in Christ, as we have seen (Jn.1:14).
John Owen; pg. [24-26]
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