Sermon Notes: The Glory of Service – Part 1

1. Introduction

• God’s presence with Israel: Tangible manifestations of His power and guidance:

• Speaking directly to Moses.

• Miracles like the Red Sea parting and manna.

• The cloud by day and fire by night.

• Shekinah Glory: Visible manifestation of God’s presence above the mercy seat in the tabernacle.

• Historical continuity: The Shekinah Glory continued into Solomon’s temple, showing God’s presence in their journey and worship.

2. God’s Glory in the Bible

• In the Old Testament:

• God’s nature: Honor, power, presence (Isaiah 42:8, 43:7).

• Scripture highlights:

• Achan’s confession (Joshua 7:19).

• God’s protection as a shield (Psalm 3:3).

• His presence as a wall of fire (Zechariah 2:5).

• In the New Testament:

• Christ’s resurrection (Romans 6:4).

• Believers called to glorify God through actions (1 Corinthians 10:31).

• Glory tied to salvation and spiritual inheritance (Ephesians 1:18).

3. Transformed by His Glory

• Christ’s Glory:

• Pre-incarnation glory (Hebrews 1:3, John 17:5).

• Veiled glory on earth, revealing character (Desire of Ages, 43.1).

• Full revelation of glory at the resurrection and at the second coming (Titus 2:13).

• Believers’ Transformation:

• Present and future glorification (Romans 8:30).

• Reflecting His character through grace (Ephesians 1:6).

4. Reflecting His Glory

• Living Sacrifices:

• Romans 12:1–2: A call to live holy lives transformed by a renewed mind.

• All talents and gifts are sacred trusts (Ellen White).

• Through Service:

• Reflect God’s glory by serving others.

• Use our lives to demonstrate His character and light in the world.

Reflection Questions

Our Message

1. How do the visible demonstrations of God’s glory in the Old Testament (e.g., Shekinah Glory, miracles) deepen your understanding of His presence today?

2. How does the Bible’s emphasis on God’s glory challenge cultural tendencies to seek self-glorification?

Our Conduct

1. In what ways can you, like Christ, veil personal glory to reflect God’s character in humility?

2. What specific talents or gifts can you surrender as a “living sacrifice” to glorify God?

Practical Application

1. How can you make glorifying God a priority in your daily decisions, whether at work, home, or in ministry?

2. What steps can you take to serve others in a way that makes God’s character visible to them?

Personal Commitment

1. Reflect on Romans 12:1–2. What changes do you need to make in your life to live as a living sacrifice?

2. How will you intentionally spend time this week focusing on God’s glory in your prayers, study, and relationships?

Prayer Points

1. Praise for His Glory: Thank God for His presence in your life and the transformative power of His glory.

2. Commitment to Reflect Him: Ask for the strength and humility to live as a reflection of His character.

3. Guidance in Service: Pray for wisdom to use your talents and opportunities to glorify God through serving others.

May this message inspire us to live transformed lives that shine with the light of His glory.