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The validity of the Baha'i understanding of 'power and glory' can be seen in the biblical teachings about the sacrifice of Christ. The Bible indicates that Christ's suffering was not a sign of humiliation, powerlessness or defeat. Paul states that to the spiritually minded this suffering reveals the power and wisdom of God: (130:2) For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.( 1 Cor. 1:22-4) (130:3) Another passage which affirms this understanding can be found in the Book of Revelation:-- Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honour and glory and blessing (Rev. 5:12) (130:4) This message is also apparent in Baha'u'llah's words concerning His oppressors, 'They are, however, oblivious of the fact that abasement in the path of God is My true glory' (Epistle 125). (130:5) Therefore, from a Baha'i point of view, Christians who are awaiting the fulfilment of Matthew 24:30 - the coming of Christ with power and glory - should not look for an epic military battle at the time of the end but, rather, should look to the power and glory already revealed in the suffering and imprisonment of Baha'u'llah. They should look to the victory that is attained by all those who truly know Baha'u'llah and practice His teachings.
(130:6)
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