Ephesians 5:27

and to present her to Himself as a glorious church, without stain or wrinkle or any such blemish, but holy and blameless.

Study Bible

and to present her to Himself
This phrase highlights the ultimate purpose of Christ's sacrificial love for the church. The Greek word for "present" is "παραστήσῃ" (parastēsē), which implies a formal presentation or standing beside. In the context of a wedding, it evokes the image of a bride being presented to the groom. Historically, this reflects the Jewish wedding customs where the bride is prepared and presented to the bridegroom. Spiritually, it signifies Christ's desire to bring the church into a close, intimate relationship with Himself, emphasizing His role as both redeemer and bridegroom.

as a glorious church
The term "glorious" is translated from the Greek word "ἔνδοξον" (endoxon), which means splendid or honorable. This reflects the transformation that the church undergoes through Christ's sanctifying work. In a historical context, the church is seen as the body of believers who are called to reflect God's glory. Theologically, it underscores the church's future state of perfection and honor, free from the corruption of sin, as it stands in the presence of Christ.

without stain or wrinkle
The imagery of "stain" and "wrinkle" comes from the Greek words "σπίλον" (spilon) and "ῥυτίδα" (rhytida), respectively. "Stain" refers to moral blemishes or impurities, while "wrinkle" suggests signs of aging or imperfection. In the ancient world, garments were often used as metaphors for one's moral and spiritual state. This phrase emphasizes the purity and perfection that Christ imparts to the church, removing all imperfections and making it eternally youthful and vibrant in holiness.

or any such blemish
The word "blemish" is derived from the Greek "ἔλλειμμα" (elleimma), meaning defect or flaw. This phrase reinforces the idea of complete purity and perfection. In the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, offerings to God had to be without blemish, symbolizing the need for holiness. Similarly, the church, as the bride of Christ, is to be without any moral or spiritual defect, reflecting the holiness of God.

but holy and blameless
"Holy" comes from the Greek "ἅγιος" (hagios), meaning set apart or consecrated. "Blameless" is from "ἄμωμος" (amōmos), meaning without fault. Together, these terms describe the sanctified state of the church. Historically, holiness was a key attribute of God's people, called to be distinct from the world. In the New Testament, this holiness is achieved through Christ's redemptive work. The church is called to live in a manner that reflects its holy status, being set apart for God's purposes and free from accusation or guilt.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Ephesians, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological teachings.

2. The Church
Referred to metaphorically as the "bride" of Christ, the church is the collective body of believers in Jesus Christ.

3. Christ
Central to this passage, Christ is depicted as the bridegroom who desires to present the church as pure and holy.

4. Ephesus
An ancient city where the church to whom this letter was addressed was located. It was a major center of early Christianity.

5. Marriage
Used as a metaphor in this passage, marriage symbolizes the intimate and covenantal relationship between Christ and the church.

Teaching Points

The Church's Purity
The church is called to be without stain or blemish, reflecting the holiness of Christ. This purity is not self-generated but is a result of Christ's sanctifying work.

Christ's Love and Sacrifice
Christ's desire to present the church as glorious is rooted in His sacrificial love. Believers are called to respond to this love by living lives that honor Him.

The Role of Sanctification
Sanctification is an ongoing process where believers are made holy through the work of the Holy Spirit. This involves daily repentance and growth in Christlikeness.

The Metaphor of Marriage
The marriage metaphor illustrates the depth of commitment and love Christ has for the church. Believers are encouraged to reflect this relationship in their earthly marriages.

Living Blamelessly
Christians are called to live blamelessly in a world that often opposes godly values. This involves making choices that align with biblical teachings and relying on God's grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the church as the "bride of Christ" influence your view of your role within the church community?

2. In what ways can you actively participate in the sanctification process to become more like the "glorious church" described in Ephesians 5:27?

3. How does the metaphor of marriage in Ephesians 5:27 challenge you to reflect Christ's love in your personal relationships?

4. What practical steps can you take to live a life "without stain or wrinkle" in today's society?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, such as Revelation 19:7-8 and 2 Corinthians 11:2, deepen your understanding of the church's purity and holiness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 19:7-8
This passage describes the marriage of the Lamb and His bride, emphasizing the purity and righteousness of the church, which aligns with the imagery in Ephesians 5:27.

2 Corinthians 11:2
Paul expresses his desire to present the church as a pure virgin to Christ, reinforcing the theme of purity and holiness.

Colossians 1:22
This verse speaks of Christ's work to present believers as holy and blameless, echoing the language used in Ephesians 5:27.