The phrase ‘Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine’ comes from the beloved Christian hymn ‘Blessed Assurance,’ written by Fanny J. Crosby in 1873. This hymn has been sung in churches worldwide, bringing comfort, joy, and inspiration to believers. But what does this phrase truly mean?
To understand its depth, we need to explore the concept of a foretaste, the meaning of glory divine, and how this phrase applies to the Christian faith. This topic will break down the significance of this powerful line, its biblical foundation, and its impact on daily life.
Understanding the Meaning of ‘Foretaste of Glory Divine’
1. What Does ‘Foretaste’ Mean?
The word ‘foretaste’ refers to a preview, an early sample, or a glimpse of something greater that is yet to come. It is like tasting a small bite of a meal before the full feast is served.
In a spiritual sense, a foretaste refers to experiencing part of God’s glory while still living on earth. It is a small but powerful taste of the eternal joy and divine presence that believers will fully experience in heaven.
2. What Is ‘Glory Divine’?
The term ‘glory divine’ refers to the splendor, majesty, and holiness of God. It represents the ultimate joy, peace, and perfection found in His presence. This phrase points to the future reality of heaven-where believers will live in the fullness of God’s glory forever.
3. The Meaning of the Phrase
When believers sing ‘Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine,’ they are expressing the joy and assurance of salvation. It means that, through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, they can experience a glimpse of heaven even while still on earth.
The Biblical Foundation of This Phrase
1. Romans 8:16-17 – Heirs of God’s Glory
‘The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory.’
This verse highlights that believers are heirs of God’s kingdom. The Holy Spirit within them is a guarantee of the future glory they will experience in eternity.
2. 2 Corinthians 1:22 – The Holy Spirit as a Deposit
‘He set His seal of ownership on us and put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.’
Here, the Holy Spirit is described as a down payment of the inheritance believers will receive. This perfectly aligns with the meaning of ‘a foretaste of glory divine.’
3. John 14:2-3 – Jesus Prepares a Place
‘My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?’
Jesus reassures His followers that their future is secure. The peace and joy they experience now are just a preview of the eternal life that awaits them.
Experiencing a Foretaste of Glory on Earth
Even though the fullness of God’s glory will only be experienced in heaven, Christians can already enjoy a foretaste of it through several ways:
1. The Presence of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the primary way believers experience a foretaste of God’s glory. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would:
- Comfort and guide believers (John 16:13)
- Bring peace beyond understanding (Philippians 4:7)
- Transform lives and strengthen faith (Galatians 5:22-23)
When Christians feel the presence of God, they are experiencing a small glimpse of the joy that awaits them in eternity.
2. Worship and Prayer
Moments of deep worship and prayer allow believers to experience a supernatural connection with God. Whether through:
- Singing hymns and worship songs
- Spending time in personal prayer
- Gathering with other believers
These experiences bring spiritual joy and peace, serving as a foretaste of eternal worship in heaven.
3. Christian Fellowship and Love
The love and unity shared among believers is another preview of God’s kingdom. When Christians:
- Encourage and support one another
- Forgive and show grace
- Live in peace and unity
They experience a taste of the eternal fellowship they will have with God and each other in heaven.
4. Miracles and Divine Intervention
When God answers prayers, heals the sick, or provides in miraculous ways, it serves as a reminder of His power and glory. These moments strengthen faith and remind believers that heaven is real, and God’s kingdom is already at work.
‘Blessed Assurance’ – A Hymn of Faith and Hope
The hymn ‘Blessed Assurance’ was written by Fanny J. Crosby, a blind hymn writer, who deeply understood what it meant to have assurance in Christ.
The First Verse:
‘Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.’
The Meaning of the Lyrics:
- ‘Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!’ → The confidence of salvation.
- ‘Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine!’ → A glimpse of heaven through faith.
- ‘Heir of salvation, purchase of God,’ → Believers are children of God.
- ‘Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.’ → The Holy Spirit confirms salvation.
This hymn is a declaration of faith, joy, and certainty in Christ.
How to Live in the Foretaste of Glory Divine
1. Strengthen Your Relationship with God
Spending time in prayer, Bible reading, and worship deepens your experience of God’s presence.
2. Walk in the Power of the Holy Spirit
Let the Holy Spirit guide your actions, thoughts, and decisions, allowing His presence to fill your life with peace and joy.
3. Keep an Eternal Perspective
Live with faith and hope, knowing that your struggles are temporary, and your eternal home is with God.
4. Share the Good News
Help others experience a foretaste of God’s glory by sharing His love, kindness, and the message of salvation.
The phrase ‘Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine’ is a beautiful reminder that heaven is not just a future hope but a present reality in the hearts of believers. Through the Holy Spirit, worship, Christian fellowship, and divine encounters, believers experience a small but powerful glimpse of the eternal joy to come.
As you reflect on this phrase, may it fill your heart with peace, assurance, and an unshakable faith in God’s promises. Let every day be lived as a foretaste of the glory that awaits in His eternal presence.