Ephesians 5 Part 4 – What a Mystery! The Husband and Wife – Christ and the Church!

by Michael Robson

In this last section of Ephesians 5, Paul talked about the special relationship that exists between a husband and his wife, and points out that this actually is based on the foundation of Gen.2:23-24, and that ultimately it is the best illustration to use for God to show us the special relationship that exists between Christ and His Church. Note vv.25-27, ‘Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.

Then in vv.32-33 Paul informs us that ‘This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church.’ So we should be asking ourselves what is expected in a marriage, in the home, between a husband and his wife? What roles do they each have? And then see how marriage is patterned on the great love relationship that Christ has for His church! He nourishes and cherishes it (vv.28-29).

Michael Robson