I have wanted to write you ever since reading this song. A part of it touched me
deeply -- how the glory of God streams into out lives. (This song is quoted in SWFOI)
However, the part I disagree with and find misleading to those that read it is ---"this life is a search for the glory of God." It is not. If one studies the Greek and Hebrew regarding salvation, it becomes very clear that salvation is about LIVING glory to God. God reveals Himself and His glory. But that is not what this life is about.
I glanced briefly at Chuck Colson's reponse on your website. I greatly encouraged because much of what Mr.Colson had to say to you was what I found lacking in the two books of yours that I have read.
So parts of your song are touching, but the doctrinal part is not accurate. As it is too often having to be said these days, it is not about us. It is about Him and giving Him glory. We respond to that glory. It is not about going through life looking for that glory.
It is up to God when to reveal glory. Searching for glory seems to be missing the point of growing in the Lord Jesus Christ and focusing on Him, not me or us.
Answer: I appreciate your desire to be sure that everything anyone says is doctrinally correct, but I wish it were as simple as you make it sound. Especially when it comes to poetry – it’s a lot harder to force poetic lines into a “doctrinal correctness” meter. For example, when Jesus says people should cut off their right hand or pluck out their right eye … I think you’ll agree, it’s lousy doctrine, but it’s making an essential poetic point.
I think the intent of the line of the song is to say that is actually quite orthodox: that the purpose of life is not – as you say – about us, but about seeking the glory of God. I’m not sure how you interpreted otherwise, but I hope this reassures you. Regarding Chuck Colson – I’m glad you appreciate his insights. You and I may simply disagree about some things!