Friday, February 18, 2005

What is the chief end of man?

The Westminster Shorter Catechism's answer is(with proof texts):

Man’s chief end is to glorify God, (Ps 86; Is 60:21; Ro 11:36; 1 Cor 6:20,31; Rev 4:11)
and to enjoy him forever. (Ps 16:5-11; Ps 144:15; Is 12:2; Luke 2:10; Phi 4:4; Rev 21:3-4)


That is a fantastic answer that has helped my relationship with God. It helps me to focus on God rather than myself or the world. The weakness of this answer is that it is too generic. People of all religions including Christians, Jews, Muslims, and Buddhists can all agree with this end.

Recently, while studying the Bible, I found a better answer. This end is focused on Christ.

The chief end of man is to attain maturity, the fullness of Christ. (Eph 4:13; Eph 3:14, Col 1:28)

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