How does Ephesians 5:26 emphasize the importance of spiritual cleansing in marriage? Christ’s Intent for Marriage Revealed in Ephesians 5:26 “to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word.” What “Cleansing” Means • Sanctify = set apart unto God, made holy, no longer common • Cleansing = removal of moral and spiritual defilement, not a metaphor but an actual work God performs in the heart (1 John 1:7) • Water imagery = echoes ceremonial washings that prepared Israel for worship (Exodus 30:17-21) The Instrument God Uses: His Word • “Washing with water through the word” – Scripture itself is the cleansing agent • John 15:3 “Already you are clean because of the word I have spoken to you.” • Psalm 119:9 “How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word.” • Hebrews 4:12 – the word penetrates, exposing and cutting away sin Why Spiritual Cleansing Is Central to Marriage • Marriage pictures Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:32). Christ’s first goal for the church is her holiness; likewise, a husband’s first goal for his wife—and the wife’s shared goal for her husband—is spiritual purity. • A holy marriage glorifies God more than a merely happy marriage. • Sin, left unwashed, hardens hearts (Hebrews 3:13) and undermines oneness. Continual cleansing preserves intimacy. Husband’s Role • Lead by bringing Scripture into the home: reading aloud, discussing, applying (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Model humble obedience, so the word is seen, not only heard (James 1:22). • Intercede for his wife’s purity (Job 1:5). • Provide an environment where confession and repentance are safe and welcome (Ephesians 4:32). Wife’s Role • Receive the word eagerly (Acts 17:11). • Encourage her husband’s leadership, adding her own insights (Proverbs 31:26). • Live a pure and respectful life that reinforces the cleansing work (1 Peter 3:1-2). Mutual Practices That Keep the Marriage Clean • Regular joint Scripture reading and conversation • Corporate worship and partaking of the Lord’s Supper together (1 Corinthians 11:28) • Quick confession and forgiveness when sin occurs (1 John 1:9; Ephesians 4:26) • Praying Scripture over each other Supporting Verses that Echo Ephesians 5:26 • Titus 3:5 “He saved us … through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.” • 2 Corinthians 7:1 “Let us purify ourselves … perfecting holiness.” • James 4:8 “Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts.” Key Takeaways • God designed marriage to be a sanctifying partnership. • Scripture is God’s chosen means to wash away daily defilement. • Husband and wife must actively immerse themselves in the word so their union remains pure, vibrant, and reflective of Christ’s love. |
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