What does "nourishes and cherishes" teach about our treatment of others? Key verse “For no one ever hated his own flesh, but he nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church.” — Ephesians 5:29 Understanding “nourishes and cherishes” • Nourishes (Greek ektréphei): feeds, supplies what is needed for growth and health. • Cherishes (Greek thaĺpei): warms, tenderly cares for, keeps close for protection and comfort. • Together, they picture steady provision plus affectionate safeguarding—how Christ treats the church and how we are to treat others. What this teaches about our treatment of others • Provide for their well-being – Physical: share resources (1 John 3:17). – Emotional: speak words that build up (Ephesians 4:29). – Spiritual: point them to Scripture and prayer (Colossians 3:16). • Encourage growth, not mere survival – “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24). • Offer protective warmth – “Bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). – Shield reputations by refusing gossip (Proverbs 17:9). • Show tender affection, not harshness – Paul likened his ministry to “a nursing mother caring for her children” (1 Thessalonians 2:7). – Husbands are called to love wives “as their own bodies” (Ephesians 5:28), modeling Christ’s gentleness. Christ’s example fueling ours • The Good Shepherd “lays down His life for the sheep” (John 10:11). • He continually “supplies and holds together” every part of His body (Colossians 2:19). • As recipients of such lavish care, we pass it on: “Freely you have received; freely give” (Matthew 10:8). Everyday applications Marriage • Speak kindly, meet practical needs, guard one another’s hearts. Parenting • Provide consistent nourishment—food, guidance, affection—mirroring God’s fatherly care (Psalm 103:13). Friendships & church family • Notice when someone is wilting; step in with prayer, presence, and practical help (Romans 12:10-13). Workplace • Create an atmosphere where coworkers can thrive: fairness, encouragement, integrity (Matthew 7:12). Community outreach • Tangibly serve the vulnerable—feeding, visiting, supporting—displaying the gospel in action (James 1:27). Takeaway truths • To nourish is to supply what fosters growth; to cherish is to wrap that supply in warmth and protection. • Christ’s treatment of us sets the standard: steady provision plus tender affection. • Our calling is to mirror His care in every sphere—home, church, work, and beyond—so that others experience through us the nurturing heart of our Savior. |
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