Matthew Henry

Henry posits that this verse denotes the high privilege associated with faith in Christ. He observes that true believers are called to be vessels that manifest God's glory. The phrase "to the praise of his glory" highlights the purpose of salvation; it underlines the reality that God's grace in saving sinners is meant to evoke worship and exaltation.

Henry also points out that the expression “who first trusted in Christ” refers to the Jewish believers who were among the first to accept Jesus as the Messiah. This inclusion emphasizes that God’s plan of salvation extends beyond the Jewish race, and through Christ, Gentiles are also brought into this glorious purpose.

Albert Barnes

Barnes interprets this verse as a declaration of the believer’s role in God’s eternal plan. He suggests that being "to the praise of his glory" means that believers are to exhibit the glory of God through their faith and conduct. Every act of faith in Christ serves to commend God’s character, leading others to glorify Him.

He emphasizes the transformative nature of believing in Christ—how this faith reshapes the believer’s life. As a result, every believer is called not only to believe but to actively reflect the glory of God in their lives, thereby fulfilling God's ultimate plan for creation, which is to glorify Himself through His people.

Adam Clarke

Clarke draws attention to the significance of the phrase "who first trusted in Christ." He elaborates that this refers specifically to the early Jewish Christians who were the first to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Clarke points out the apostolic community as crucial in the dissemination of faith and believes that this verse affirms their role in God's overarching narrative.

Furthermore, Clarke emphasizes the concept of inheritance. He connects this idea to the previous verses where Paul speaks of predestination and adoption. He notes that the praise of God's glory also serves as an inheritance for believers; that is, through faith, they become part of God's eternal family and heritage, charged with the responsibility to reflect His glory to the world.

Summary of Themes

• The Centrality of Faith: Believers are called to trust in Christ, which is central to their identity and purpose.
• Purpose of Salvation: Salvation is designed to lead to the glorification of God, serving as a testimony of His grace.
• The Role of Jewish Believers: Acknowledgment of the Jewish roots of faith, with emphasis on the transitional extension to Gentiles.
• Transformation and Responsibility: Faith in Christ brings about a moral and spiritual transformation that compels believers to reflect God's nature.
• Inheritance and Legacy: Salvation constitutes an inheritance that is tied to the glory and praise of God, illustrating a profound connection between divine promise and human responsibility.