She is compromised of people all around the world. She speaks many languages and represents hundreds of different nationalities. The apostle Paul writes to the Galatians, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus." (3:28 KJV).
This beautiful bride has walked the aisle of history. From Peter's message on the day of Pentecost when some three thousand were converted to the soon coming trumpet blast when she be called away to the marriage supper of the Lamb.
She may be imperfect. Her history marred by poor decisions and inward strife and wars. At times she weak to the world's seduction and slow to believe, but Jesus is making her spotless. Already His blood sets her apart, washed and justified. She is sealed by the Holy Ghost until the very last hour. Though the world mocks and even those in the church may scorn, she still prevails against the gates of hell.
Yes, Jesus loves the church.
Paul describes His love for the church found in a marriage, "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish." (Ephesians 5:25-27 KJV).
And what should our response be to the church? We are to love the church as Jesus does because it matters not only to our spiritual growth, but as a corporate body. We can nurse our offenses, relive past wounds, wall and divide ourselves with our pet theologies or we can learn to love the body with the power only He can give us.
Yes, God can give us the freedom and grace to love His bride.
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