We Are the Body of Christ (Part 3)

"Christ rises above all things."  - A. B. Simpson

We have learned thus far that Jesus loves His Church (the body of believers) immensely. We can compare this special relationship to that of a bridegroom and bride who are yet in their engagement period.

Although the actual marriage date has not yet been formally set, it will come to pass. Also, as any other who is deeply committed to a special relationship, Jesus is deeply and eternally committed to His. 

And as such, He has promised that His Church will not fail; nothing or no one will overcome it (Matthew 16:18). Thus, there is no doubt regarding Jesus' love for His Church. 

This week, we'll expand on this and include some other important elements regarding the intimate relationship between Jesus and the Church. Let's begin with the fact that Jesus, because of His love, gave Himself for His Church (Ephesians 5:25).

Why did He do this? He gave himself for her that He might sanctify (purify, make holy, cleanse) her. That is, to sanctify the Church in this world, and glorify (honor, praise) it in the next.

However, the Church was not just handed over to Christ. It was purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:28). He paid with His life. There are several verses in the Bible that attest to this "price", for example: 1 Corinthians 6:20; 1 Corinthians 7:23; 2 Peter 2:1).

As a result of the high price that was paid, Jesus was appointed the supreme ruler, above everything; which includes the Church. All beings and things are subject to Him, whether they be thrones, dominions, principalities, or powers (Colossians 1:16-18; Colossians 2:10),

God, the Father, has made him the head, chief, and supreme, over all. This applies to the Church, as the Church has no ruler but Jesus Christ. Others may be officers in Church, but he alone is head and sovereign (Ephesians 1:22-23).

One last point I'd like to mention is Christ as Savior of the body (Church). Using the analogy of a husband being head over the wife, Christ also is head of the church.

Christ gave himself to save his body, the church, thus, His is the Savior of the body (Ephesians 5:23). He provides all of the Church's needs, preserves and protects it, and has purchased salvation for it, which all members share in. 

We have covered a lot of ground today, and I believe that we have reached a good place to rest and ponder what we have learned.

I do hope you will join me again next time as we continue our discussion on Jesus and His glorious Church!

Scripture: Ephesians 4:15; Acts 4:12; Jonah 2:9; 1 Corinthians 11:3; Titus 3:4  

Prayer: Dear Lord, I ask for the power of Your Spirit in my life each day, so that I may live more fully in Your presence, amen.

May the Lord bless, 

Shawna