Church: More Than a Buildingಮಾದರಿ

The Church is the Bride of Christ

Have you ever been to a wedding where the entire room fell silent when the bride appeared? There’s something sacred about that moment. The music changes, everyone stands, and the groom watches in awe as the one he loves walks toward him. It’s a powerful image — and it’s no accident that Scripture uses it to describe Jesus’ relationship with His Church.

In Revelation 19:7, we get a glimpse of the ultimate wedding—the moment when Jesus, the Lamb of God, is reunited with His bride, the Church. “Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.” - Revelation 19:7 (NIV).That wedding and image of the bride of Jesus is us: all believers — united, forgiven, made clean — waiting with joy for our Groom.

Reflect

What does it mean to be the bride of Christ?

It means we are deeply loved. Jesus gave His life for the Church — not because we were already perfect, but to make us perfect through His sacrifice. Ephesians 5 says He gave Himself up for us “to make her holy, cleansing her… and to present her… without stain or wrinkle...” - Ephesians 5:26-27 (NIV).

Being the bride of Christ also means we are called to prepare. Just as a bride gets ready for her wedding day, we are called to live with purity, commitment, and anticipation. But our preparation isn’t about perfection; it’s about faithfulness. We stay close to Jesus, live by His grace, and long for the day we see Him face to face.

And until that day, we live like a bride-in-waiting: set apart, devoted, and filled with hope.

Respond

Are you living like someone preparing to meet Jesus? What are some temporary things that occupy your attention? What are some eternal things you could focus on instead? How can you live today in joyful anticipation of that coming reunion?

Pray

Jesus, thank You for loving the Church with such a deep and sacrificial love. Thank You for preparing a place for us to be with You. Help us live every day in faithfulness and readiness. Strengthen us to live in a way that brings You honor. Until that day we are united with You, help us remain faithful, hopeful, and full of love. Amen.