Discussion hints: ELTBefore Married לקש

Discussion hints: ELTBefore Married לקש [∞]

The Church as the Bride of Christ

A Covenant of Teaching

1. What does the Hebrew word לקח (laqach) teach us about the connection between marriage and teaching? The word laqach means both "to take or marry" and "teaching or doctrine." This shows that in the Bible, marriage is not just about love but also about learning and growing together, similar to how the church learns from Christ.
2. How is the covenant between Christ and the church similar to a marriage covenant? Just like a marriage covenant joins a husband and wife in a promise of love and commitment, the church is united with Christ in a covenant of salvation. This covenant brings the church into a close, loving relationship with Christ.
3. Why do you think the Bible uses the image of a bride to describe the church’s relationship with Christ? The image of a bride emphasizes the closeness, love, and commitment Christ has for His people. It also shows that the church is meant to grow and learn from Him, much like a bride learns and grows in her relationship with her husband.

Paul’s Teaching About Christ and the Church

1. In Paul’s writings, why does he compare the relationship between a husband and wife to the relationship between Christ and the church? Paul uses this comparison to show how Christ leads, loves, and teaches the church, just as a husband leads and cares for his wife. It highlights the unity and purpose in the relationship.
2. What does Paul mean when he says he’s not really talking about marriage but about Christ and the church? Paul is using marriage as a metaphor to explain the deeper spiritual relationship between Christ and the church. He wants readers to understand that the focus is on Christ’s role as a teacher and leader for His people.
3. How does Christ “teach” the church, and why is this teaching important? Christ teaches the church through His Word (the Bible), which guides the church in truth, faith, and holiness. This teaching is essential for the church to grow spiritually and to live in a way that pleases God.

Learning and Growing Through Christ

1. Why is it important for the church to learn from Christ’s teachings? Learning from Christ helps the church grow in faith, stay united with Him, and live according to His will. His teachings guide the church in truth and help believers reflect His love.
2. What are some ways the church can “listen” to Christ today? The church listens to Christ by studying the Bible, praying, following His example, and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit.
3. How does following Christ’s teachings help believers grow in their faith? Christ’s teachings provide wisdom, strength, and direction. By following them, believers grow closer to Him, develop stronger character, and become more like Christ in their daily lives.

Marriage as a Picture of Teaching

1. How does the connection between marriage and teaching change the way we think about relationships? It shows that relationships, especially marriage, are not just about feelings or commitments but also about learning and growing together in truth and understanding.
2. In what ways does the church’s learning from Christ show its unity with Him? When the church learns from Christ, it shows that it trusts Him and follows His guidance. This unity reflects the deep bond between Christ and His people, like a bride and groom.
3. Why do you think God uses marriage as a metaphor to explain the relationship between Christ and the church? Marriage is a close and loving relationship that people can understand. By comparing the church to a bride, God shows His deep love and care for His people and the importance of learning and growing with Him.

Conclusion: A Covenant of Learning

1. What can we learn about God’s love for His people from the idea of Christ as the “husband” of the church? God’s love is personal, sacrificial, and faithful. He is committed to teaching, guiding, and caring for His people, just as a husband does for his bride.
2. How does understanding the church as the bride of Christ affect the way we live as believers? It reminds us to live in close relationship with Christ, to trust His guidance, and to grow in faith and holiness by learning from His teachings.
3. How can we as individuals and as a church better reflect Christ’s love and truth in the world? By living according to His teachings, showing love and kindness to others, and sharing His truth with those who don’t yet know Him. This helps reflect His character and draws others to Him.