The Bride of Christ

Chosen, Cherished, and Called

You are not just saved from sin—you are called into covenant. Christ did not die simply to rescue you. He died to wed you to Himself in love, truth, and eternal communion.

The Bible begins with a marriage (Genesis 2) and ends with a wedding (Revelation 19). This is the divine story of redemption: a Bride prepared for the Lamb, purchased in blood, washed in the Word, and made one with the King.

“As the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you.”
— Isaiah 62:5

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You Are Chosen by the King

“You did not choose Me, but I chose you…”
— John 15:16

The Bride is not random or self-made. She is chosen in love, pursued by grace, and betrothed through covenant. This is not an invitation to pride, but to humble awe.

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You Are Cherished, Not Tolerated

“Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her…”
— Ephesians 5:25

You are not barely accepted. You are deeply desired. The Cross is proof that the Bride is treasured—not by merit, but by mercy.

The early Church lived in this reality. Their obedience was not driven by fear, but by love. They saw themselves as espoused to Christ, and longed to be found faithful.

“I have betrothed you to one Husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ.”
— 2 Corinthians 11:2

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You Are Called to Prepare

The Bride doesn’t wait passively—she prepares actively:

• Through repentance and purity
• Through worship and devotion
• Through good works and faithful witness
• Through longing and watchfulness

“The one who is betrothed keeps herself pure, anticipating her Husband’s return.”
— Tertullian, Exhortation to Chastity

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What We Can Learn

1. We are not just saved—we are espoused.
2. The Church is not a building—it is a Bride.
3. Our lives are to reflect the love we’ve been given.
4. The Spirit is preparing us for union with Christ.

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Sources:

• The Holy Bible — Revelation 19:7–9; Isaiah 62:5; Ephesians 5:25–27; 2 Corinthians 11:2; John 15:16
• Tertullian, Exhortation to Chastity
• Ignatius of Antioch, Letter to Polycarp
• Hermas, Similitudes 9
• Didache, ch. 10

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