This paper attempts to hold together three strands of literature that have each grown in recent years, yet frequently grown apart: (1) classical, dogmatic Christology [e.g., Pawl, Cross, Duby, Wellum, McFarland], (2) biblical theological accounts of worship and glory [e.g., Lamport, Block, Beale, Peterson, Kaiser, etc.], and (3) philosophical accounts of humanity’s “chief end” [e.g., Wessling, Crisp, McCall]. Connecting these conversations, this paper argues for a vision of conciliar (esp. Nicene and Chalcedonian) Christology under the designation of Christ as the subject and object of worship and glory. By defending this conclusion, ultimately, the paper demonstrates the Christological foundations and implications of the glory of God.
In order to make this argument, the paper moves in three sections, subtly following the logic of John 17:1-5. The first section addresses the Son as the object of worship, supported by a Nicene, conciliar account of his divine nature (John 1:1; 8:48) and the revelation of the Father in the Son’s theandric unity (i.e., John 13:31a). The second section treats the incarnate Son as the subject of worship, rooted in his finite humanity (John 1:14) and his mediatorial role for the people of God (John 17:9). The final section connects the preceding treatment to the question of humanity’s “chief end,” arguing that in Jesus we recognize the abundant divine goodness inherent to God as the object of glory and the blessedness of creatures in glorifying God.
This paper ultimately contributes to contemporary theological inquiry by constellating three existing discussions, providing clarity on the Christological foundations and implications of worship through biblical and philosophical engagement. Beyond its immediate discussion partners, this paper has downstream implications for the theology and praxis of worship as well as the devotion of all those whose ultimate goal is to glorify God and enjoy him forever.