What does Ephesians 5:32 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 5:32 speaks to the profound and mystical relationship between Jesus Christ and the church.

The term "mystery" here signifies a truth that was once hidden but is now revealed in the New Testament.

Paul, the author of Ephesians, often uses the concept of a "mystery" to explain aspects of Christian theology that were unfolding in the revelation of Jesus Christ and his teachings.

The literal meaning of the verse is straightforward: Paul is acknowledging that the relationship he speaks of is complex and not easily understood.

However, the deeper significance is that the marriage relationship between a husband and wife is reflective of a much greater spiritual reality , the union and intimate relationship between Christ (the bridegroom) and the church (his bride).

Historical Context

Ephesians was written by the Apostle Paul, likely around A.D. 60-62, while he was under house arrest in Rome.

The letter is addressed to the church in Ephesus, a significant city in the Roman province of Asia (modern-day Turkey).

The culture of Ephesus was marked by its devotion to the Greek goddess Artemis (Diana), and it was an environment rich with pagan worship and practices.

Paul's writings often countered these cultural influences by presenting Christian doctrine and morality as a stark contrast.

His analogy of marriage between Christ and the church would have resonated with both Jewish and Gentile converts, who understood the importance of marriage in their cultures.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse contributes insights into several doctrines.

From a covenantal viewpoint, it reflects the belief that the relationship between Christ and the church is based on a divine covenant much like marriage is a covenantal relationship.

Some theologians, particularly those from a sacramental background, might see marriage and its reflection of Christ and the church as a sacrament, a visible sign of an inward grace.

Dispensationalists might focus on the revealed "mystery" of the church, which was not known in Old Testament times. In their framework, this mystery is part of God's unique plan for the church age, distinct from His plans for Israel.

Reformed theologians may discuss the union of Christ and the church in terms of "the already and the not yet," where the church currently experiences a spiritual union with Christ but anticipates a fuller consummation in the future.

Practical Applications

Applying this verse in daily life, one may see the importance of modeling marital relationships after the sacrificial love and unity shown in the relationship between Christ and the church.

This includes faithfulness, love, and respect within marriage.

It also prompts Christians to consider their role within the church body , emphasizing unity, commitment, and devotion to Jesus.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 5:25: "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;"
• Revelation 19:7: "Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready."
• 2 Corinthians 11:2: "For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ."

Language Study

The Greek word translated as "mystery" is "μυστήριον" (mysterion), which in New Testament usage often refers to a divine secret revealed by God. In the context of Ephesians, "mysterion" conveys a previously hidden truth about God's plan for humanity that is now revealed through Jesus Christ.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparative mythology, marriage often symbolizes the union of different but complementary forces, leading to creation or harmony. For example, in many pagan cultures, gods and goddesses often married, embodying the integration of various aspects of life and nature.

In contrast, the Christian concept is not one of deities joining, but rather of a divine being, Christ, uniting with a group of people, the church, in a non-physical but deeply spiritual sense.

Scientific Perspectives

Science generally does not intersect directly with the allegorical and theological language present in Ephesians 5:32.

However, modern psychology recognizes the importance of symbolism and metaphor in human understanding and how they shape human relationships.

Exploring the concept of Christ and the church as a marriage may yield insights into communal and individual psychology by reflecting the human need for unity, belonging, and understanding within a group or community.

Commentaries

Various biblical commentators offer interpretations of this verse within the broader discussion of Paul's teachings on marriage and the church.

For example, Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes the duties of husbands and wives to each other, as patterned after Christ's love and sacrifice for the church.

John MacArthur discusses the profound unity between believers as the body of Christ and the sanctifying work of Christ in the church.

He views the mystery of Christ and the church as multifaceted, involving the church's origin, its intimate relationship with Christ, and its ultimate glorification.