The church

A beautiful biblical image speaks of the Church as the Bride of Christ. This is alluded to through symbolism in various scriptures, including the Song of Songs. A key passage is... Hohelied 2,10-16, where the bride's lover tells her that her winter is over and now it's time for singing and joy (see also Hebr 2,12), and also where the bride says: "My friend is mine and I am his" (Hohelied 2,16)The Church belongs to Christ, both individually and collectively, and he belongs to the Church.

Christ is the bridegroom who loves the church and gave himself up for her: "That he might prepare for himself a gloriously holy church, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and without blemish." (Eph 5,27)This relationship, as Paul says: “This mystery is profound; but I am referring to Christ and the church.” (Eph 5,32).

John takes up this theme in the Book of Revelation. The triumphant Christ, the Lamb of God, marries the bride, the Church. (Offenbarung 19,6-9), and together they proclaim the words of life (Offb 21,17).

There are additional metaphors and images used to describe the Church. The Church is the flock that needs caring shepherds who model their care on the example of Christ. (1Pt 5,1-4)It is a field where workers are needed to plant and water. (1Kor 3,6-9)The church and its members are like vines on a grapevine. (Joh 15,5)The church is like an olive tree. (Röm 11,17-24).

As a reflection of the present and future Kingdom of God, the Church is like a mustard seed that grows into a tree in which the birds of the air find refuge. (Lk 13,18-19); and like sourdough, making its way through the dough of the world. (Lk 13,21).

The Church is the body of Christ and consists of all those who are recognized by God as members of the "communities of saints". (1Kor 14,33)This is significant for the believer because participation in the church is the means by which the Father preserves us and keeps us alive until the return of Jesus Christ.

by James Henderson