The Hebrew word for glory (kavod) is sometimes used figuratively to mean “heavy” or “dense.” When we speak of a “weighty” person, someone who is honorable, worthy, or impressive, we come close to the way in which the word is used to describe God. Kavod includes “reputation” but is never detached from the actual reality of the worth and majesty of God. We honor and glorify God by giving Him appropriate respect, attention and obedience in recognition of His glory (Is 29:13).
The only New Testament reference to the God of glory is in Stephen’s speech. He said that the God of glory spoke to Abraham when He gave him the promise of blessing and called him to leave his family home.
The God of glory in the Hebrew text of Psalm 29:3
God of glory in Hebrew:
’El-hakkavod
Strong’s Concordance numbers: 410, 3519b
Bible reference: Ps. 29:3
The voice of the Lord is over the waters;
the God of glory thunders,
the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. (Psalm 29:3 NIV)
God of glory in the Greek text of Acts 7:2.
God of glory in Greek:
Ho Theos tēs doxēs
Strong’s Concordance numbers: 2316, 1391
Bible reference: Acts 7:2
When the Jewish council of priests and Sadducees questioned Stephen, he “replied: “Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Harran.” (Acts 7:2 NIV)
Similar names for God are Majestic Glory, Father of glory, Lord of glory, and King of glory.
