A Greater Glory

Read: Micah 4:1-7

People from many nations will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of Jacob’s God.” Micah 4:2

IN WORD

Many nations will come. Not just people scattered throughout the nations. Actual nations. The ethnoi of the earth—the ethnic, linguistic, cultural groups of the human race. Large blocs of people. We rightly celebrate a salvation here and there, and sometimes a spiritual movement among a group of people, but history is heading toward a greater climax. Many nations will see the glory of God and come streaming to His throne. Micah 4:3 even says He will settle national disputes. His “mountain” will draw the admiration and honor of the world.

How can this be? As His Spirit moves through His people, demonstrates His heart, and fulfills prophecies uttered long ago, more and more will see Him for who He is. It won’t be a peaceful revelation, to be sure; Jesus is always at the center of controversy as people contend for truth. The kingdoms of this world, both behind the scenes and on its surface, don’t relinquish control easily. An enemy desperately wants to keep the glory of God veiled, so there will be times of pushback and persecution. But the result will be beautiful. Many will see and come running to Him.

Ancient prophecies tell a different story than some of our narratives today. We often talk about how things will get worse and worse. We magnify the prophecies of tribulation and minimize the prophecies of increase. We unwittingly give honor to a dreaded antichrist, as if his work will be more powerful than the Spirit’s movements across our globe. We easily develop an unbalanced vision of the future.

IN DEED

Restore the balance. Envision the increase of the Kingdom. Expect the prophecies of glory to be fulfilled. Some may apply only after the return of Christ, but many clearly come to pass sooner. Put your faith in the Spirit who gives life and restores it, unveiling the beauty of God. Pray for the nations to flock to His mountain to worship Him.

ADDITIONAL READING: Isaiah 11:9-10

The great end of God’s works, which is so variously expressed in Scripture, . . . is most properly and comprehensively called “the glory of God.”

JONATHAN EDWARDS