What is the meaning of Ephesians 5:26? To sanctify her “to sanctify her” (Ephesians 5:26) • Sanctify means “set apart for God’s holy purpose.” Christ’s love moves the church from common use to sacred belonging (1 Peter 2:9). • This is God’s declared position for every believer—made holy through Christ’s sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10; 1 Corinthians 6:11). • The goal is not mere improvement but total dedication: spirit, soul, and body (1 Thessalonians 5:23). Cleansing her “cleansing her” • Christ does not simply label us holy; He removes every stain (Revelation 1:5). • The cross provides full pardon—“He gave Himself for us to redeem us…and to purify for Himself a people” (Titus 2:14). • Ongoing forgiveness keeps fellowship unbroken (1 John 1:7-9). By the washing with water “by the washing with water” • The picture points to baptism: an outward testimony of God’s inward work (Acts 22:16; Romans 6:3-4). • Water imagery underscores total cleansing—nothing left untouched (Psalm 51:2). • The church is repeatedly reminded of her new identity, just as Israel passed through the Red Sea and left slavery behind (1 Corinthians 10:1-2). Through the word “through the word” • God’s Word is the agent that applies and renews this cleansing (John 15:3). • Scripture exposes, convicts, and reshapes hearts (Hebrews 4:12; James 1:21). • Regular hearing and obeying keeps the church pure and fruitful (Psalm 119:9,11). • Husbands mirror Christ when they lead their families to soak in Scripture, fostering spiritual health and holiness (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). summary Ephesians 5:26 reveals Christ’s loving purpose: He set the church apart, washed away her sin, and continually renews her through His Word. The verse reassures believers of complete cleansing and calls husbands to imitate this self-giving, Word-centered love in their own homes. |
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