Ephesians 5:27
“That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.”
King James Version
Christ will present the church to Himself as a bride: glorious, without spot or wrinkle, holy and without blemish.
Fulfillment References
Revelation 19:7-8 2 Corinthians 11:2 Colossians 1:22 Jude 24
How Traditions Read This Prophecy
Apostolic (Oneness) PentecostalChrist 'loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word' (5:25-26). He presents the church 'to himself': the Giver and the Receiver are the same Person. He is 'the author and finisher of our faith' (Heb. 12:2): He began the work, and He will finish it. The bride makes herself ready (Rev. 19:7), washed and kept clean until He comes for her.
JewishNo traditional Jewish reading. The bride image recalls God as Israel's husband (Hosea 2:19-20; Isaiah 54:5).
CatholicThe Church as the spotless Bride of Christ, made holy through the sacraments.
ProtestantChrist sanctifies His church and will present it perfect at His return.
OrthodoxThe Church as the Bride, being made holy in Christ.
DispensationalThe church as the bride, presented at the rapture and the marriage supper of the Lamb.
AcademicPaul's marriage analogy (5:22-33). The washing may echo the bridal bath before a wedding.
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Bible Prophecy Explorer · based on J. Barton Payne’s Encyclopedia of Biblical Prophecy catalogue · an openly Apostolic (Oneness) Pentecostal study resource — all traditions presented fairly. Pastor: C. Myles Young, D.Min. · Bishop: Nathaniel J. Wilson, Ed.D.