0628. The Building, the Body, and the Bride

The Building, the Body, and the Bride

"The Stone which the builders have rejected, has become the head of the corner" (1Pe_2:7).

"The Head, even Christ, from Whom the whole Body fitly framed" (Eph_4:15-16).

"For this cause shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall become one flesh. This is a great mystery, but I speak of Christ and the Church" (Eph_5:31-32).

The Church of Jesus Christ is likened unto three things. First, It is a building, builded upon Jesus Christ. Second, It is a body, with Christ Jesus the Head. Third, It is a bride, anticipating the coming of the Bridegroom.

1. The Church is a Building. The Word of God says: "Upon this Rock, I will build My Church." Of course, Jesus Christ is the rock. "Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ."

The Church, however, is not builded upon Jesus Christ, ascended; or, upon Jesus Christ, coming again. It is builded upon Jesus Christ crucified, the Riven Rock.

2. The Church is a Body. As a body the Church is in touch with its risen, ascended and seated Lord. Christ Jesus at the right hand of God is the Head of the Church. All believers as members of the Church, are members of the Body. All have not the same office, but all have vital connection with the risen Head.

3. The Church is a Bride. As a bride the Church is anticipating the coming of the Bridegroom. The second coming of Christ is to the Church its "blessed hope." The coming of Christ, to the Church, is also its pacifying hope, and its comforting hope and its inspirational hope.

Thus the Church itself has in Christ a vital connection with His Cross, with His ascension, and with His coming again. How necessary, then, that the Church keep in mind this threefold relationship which she holds to her Lord.

Autor: R.E. NEIGHBOUR