So maybe I just don’t get it. There are two interpretive camps from the reformation tradition; those who emphasis the theology of glory and those who emphasis the theology of the cross.

Now the theology of glory is criticized by the proponents of the theology of the cross as tending toward a wrong understanding of the end times; namely that the ultimate purpose of all things is the glory of God, therefore as time progresses and God’s plan is brought to fruition this world becomes better and better as God increases his glory.

The theology of the cross is criticized as being too introspective and morbid, ignoring the joys that are now to be had in Christ. They see suffering as being the prevalent theme of the Christian walk as the believer daily takes up his cross and is united with the sufferings of Christ.

So here’s where I’m confused. Isn’t God most glorified in the sacrifice of Christ? Of course our ultimate calling is to reflect the glory of God! But what is the essence of that glory? Is it not the pouring out of the self for another? Is not God’s dominion through the giving of life? Is not also man’s vice regency through the sacrifice of the self for the benefit of those under his care? How do the two perspectives contradict each other? God is clearly to be glorified, but is not the quality of that glory loving sacrifice? Someone help me out here.