Course Introduction

An exploration of the biblical theme of God’s glory in the Old Testament, with the goal of understanding its meaning, significance, and relevance for the Church today.

Taught by Dr Rebecca Idestrom, Professor of Old Testament at Tyndale Seminary, of Tyndale University in Toronto, and winner of the 2025 Book of Excellence Award from The Foundation of Pentecostal Scholarship for her most recent book, Show Me Your Glory: The Glory of God in the Old Testament (Pickwick Publications, 2023).

As Christians we often speak about the glory of God. In church we sing songs about God’s glory, and we pray that he will reveal his glory to us and be glorified as we worship him. But how often do we stop and really consider what is meant when we speak of God’s glory? What is the glory of the Lord and how does Scripture define it?

In this six-week course, we will examine the biblical theme of God’s glory in the Old Testament with the goal of understanding its meaning, theological significance, and practical relevance for the church today. This will entail exploring key terms, images, and themes related to divine glory, as well as examining various scriptural passages about the glory of the Lord.

We will begin by tracing the theme in the Pentateuch, especially focusing on God’s revelation of his glory in the exodus and to Moses and the Israelites at Mount Sinai. Then we will examine the significance of God’s glorious presence in the temple and in worship as described in the historical books and in the psalms. We will then explore the theme in the prophets, particularly in Isaiah and Ezekiel. As we trace the theme of God’s glory in the Old Testament, connections will be made to the New Testament and the ultimate revelation of God’s glory in Jesus Christ. The course will conclude by considering practical implications, addressing such questions as: How is the topic of God’s glory in Scripture significant and relevant to the Christian life and the Church community? What practical steps can we take to see and experience God’s glory more in our lives and in the world?

Exodus 33:18; 2 Corinthians 3:18.

Book Recommendation for the Course:

In the course, the instructor, Rebecca Idestrom, will draw on material published in her book Show Me Your Glory: The Glory of God in the Old Testament (Eugene, OR: Pickwick Publications, 2023). Although it is not necessary for students to read the book in order to take the course, those who want to dive deeper into the topic will find reading the book helpful and a great resource to accompany the course material.

Tentative Course Outline:

Week One: Introduction: Glory language and imagery in the Bible

Week Two: God’s Glory in the Pentateuch: The exodus, Moses’ and Israel’s experiences at Sinai

Week Three: God’s Glory in the Temple and in Worship: Historical books and Psalms

Week Four: God’s Glory in Isaiah

Week Five: God’s Glory in Ezekiel

Week Six: Practical Implications: God’s glory in the New Testament and in the church