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"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."

Text: Ephesians 5:27

A GLORIOUS CHURCH

What a tremendous sense of love the Lord Jesus has for the Church. What commitment He must have towards the Church!

THE STATE OF THE CHURCH TODAY

What is the state of the Church today? If we were to combine all the problems noted in the five ailing churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation, we would probably have a pretty honest appraisal of the modern day church.

1. The church has left its first love for the Lord (Ephesian Church- Revelation 2).

2. The church is badly compromised (Pergamos Church- Revelation 2).

3. The Church has been affected by corruption (Thyatira Church- Revelation 2).

4. The Church is unwatchful (Sardis Church- Revelation 3).

5. The Church is lukewarm (Laodicea Church).

CHRIST’S CONTINUED COMMITMENT TO HIS CHURCH

Can we speak of Christ being still deeply committed to His Bride, even though she is so weak and sickly? Though our hearts are deeply grieved and we feel shame, our faith assures us that Christ continues to love the Church.

1. “Not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing”

Only a woman would fully grasp the significance of these words. To have spots and wrinkles would cause a woman to feel greatly upset. Paul reveals a tender insight. He teaches us that Jesus understands. He is deeply committed to helping the Church maintain its beauty. Yes, the Church is beautiful to the Lord Jesus.

2. “Holy and without blemish”

Paul cleverly drew a parallel between the physical and the spiritual dimensions. The spiritual dimension is His main focus. In what way would the Church be “holy and without blemish”?

a) When it guards the purity of its doctrines.

b) When it is untainted by the world.

c) When it emphasizes holy living.

d) When it seeks to be faithful and true to the Lord Jesus.