Sunday, July 07, 2019

The Church is the Bride of Christ

by Laura Springer, Th.M., Ph.D.



Relevant Scripture: 2 Corinthians 11:1–6; Genesis 2:18–25; Ephesians 5:22-33; Revelation 21:1–4

TFB is at a threshold. This year, Academy has been exploring what God intends his church to be. We have seen that God intends us to be a sanctuary, a family, a people, a kingdom of priests, and the body of Christ. This month we look at the church as the Bride of Christ, living toward God's purpose in intimate partnership with Jesus.

Holy and splendid. In the context of this intimate partnership, the church is being made holy and splendid by the love of Jesus. In response, she has a singular devotion to him. She is nourished and cherished by him. Through his love and the work of the Spirit, she is becoming more like him, living out his holiness and reflecting his glory. She is fully supplied for her service in his mission and fully valued as his bride. She is always with him, and he is always with her. Knowing she is eternally safe in his love, the church is eager to proclaim the truth and love the unlovely. She does this despite opposition from persons and cultures, for whole-hearted devotion is her reasonable response. No other love comes before her love for Jesus.

Called, qualified, and secure. In this intimate partnership, the church is called, qualified, and secure in Jesus’ love. She has real participation in his mission, having the capacity to risk and love by his grace. She has been chosen by him and rests in his finished work, looking ahead to her glorification in the Kingdom. In the meantime, she puts her calling and qualification to work, making disciples of Jesus wherever she gathers and disperses.

During this time of transition, TFB needs a clear understanding of identity as a community and a calm assurance of our place in Christ's heart. Let us remember that being the bride of Christ is a position of value. It is a position held by one who is qualified by the love of Jesus and held secure in that love. In response, she can focus her love on him alone. She serves alongside her groom, being fit for the needs of their shared service. Her work is fueled by his love, and her heart is faithful to his ends.  Let us hold fast to our first love.

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