Ephesians 5:22-33

Introduction:

1. We conclude our look at NT images for the church with the two most intimate analogies used: His bride and His body.

2. The love of Christ for His church must incite a reciprocal love for Him that moves us to unswerving dedication.

Discussion:

I. The Bride/Bridegroom Imagery

A. Marriage is the closest human relationship making it a rich illustration of God’s closeness to His people (Genesis 2:18-24).

B. It was used of Israel before and of the church now (Jeremiah 3:1-8; 31:31-32; Ezekiel 16:8; Hosea 1-2; Ephesians 5:22-33; Revelation 19:6-9; 21:9).

C. In physical marriage, two become one flesh (Genesis 2:24), so this image is one of immense closeness and mutual care.

II. The Head and the Body Imagery

A. This takes the concept of union with Christ to yet another level.

B. The NT highlights incorporation “into” Christ and His body in this vein (Romans 6:3-4; 8:1; 2 Corinthians 5:17, 21; Galatians 3:27-28).

C. Paul often refers to Christians as “members” of Christ’s body, a term referring to body parts (Romans 12:4-5; 1 Corinthians 12:12, 27; Ephesians 5:30).

D. The thrust of this concept is more than being united “with Him” but being incorporated “into Him” upon conversion.

III. Single-Hearted Devotion

A. Both these analogies demand single-hearted devotion.

B. Christ has but one bride, and we must have but one groom.

C. Israel was adulterous as God’s bride and were cast out (see above).

D. As a body has one head as its source of life and command center, so it is with Christ’s body (Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:22-24; Colossians 1:18).

Conclusion:

1. So much more could be said in this discussion, but those concepts will have to come later in this series.

2. The aim of this discussion is two-fold:

a. To emphasize our union with and incorporation into Christ.

b. To recognize the singularity of the bride and body with the incumbent responsibilities such a relationship brings.