“…to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen“
forever and ever.
The phrase “forever and ever” is an idiom for the eternal state, a state without end. The eternal age opposes the present evil age. God’s glory deserves eternal praise.
Amen
“Amen” confirms God’s exclusive magnificence in saving us. Paul says in effect, “I believe it!” Because Jesus did the will of God (1:4) by saving us from our sins when we could not save ourselves, He deserves eternal recognition.
Principle:
God exclusively deserves the glory because He did the doing.
Application:
The purpose of salvation is primarily to glorify God, not to profit man. We dare not rob God of His proper glory. When we give God the glory for our salvation, we exclude the glory of man. We cannot take credit for that which is God’s exclusive responsibility.
“…of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Amen” (Romans 9:5).
“For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen” (Romans 11:36).
“Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen” (1 Timothy 1:17).
