The Bride of Christ and Ancient Traditions: What’s True?

The term “the bride of Christ” has been at the center of many controversies throughout the centuries. Where did it come from? What does it mean? Who is the bride? Have we misunderstood who’s who? The answers to these questions come not from a Western theological perspective but from a Hebrew understanding of the process of engagement, marriage, the reception and the marriage supper.

I have performed a few weddings during my more than forty years of ministry. During your lifetime you have probably attended a few, including yours or that of your children or, in some cases, grandchildren. In Hebrew tradition, marriages were arranged. They were more than just a commitment between the bridegroom and his bride but of two families coming together. When the engagement happened, the bridegroom makes a covenant with the bride. He leaves her in her village and goes to prepare a home for her in his village. After everything is ready, and the bridegroom’s father agrees it’s time, a delegation makes its way to receive the bride. The bridegroom comes with his groomsmen; the bride is ready with her attendants. They get married, arrive at their reception and have a wedding supper.

Who’s who? Could it be that Israel is the bride? We, as the “glorious” church, are the guests and for those of us who love and support the Jewish people, our invitation entitles us to a seat at the marriage supper? What’s the truth? {eoa}

Pastor Larry Huch is the host of Standing With Israel podcast and has become a recognized authority and acclaimed writer on the Hebrew roots of our Christian faith. He’s diving into his latest book, The Seven Living Prophecies on his new podcast. Along with his wife, Tiz, their television program, New Beginnings with Pastors Larry and Tiz Huch, is broadcast weekly to millions of homes. Their dynamic ministry spans almost forty years and is continuing to have a global impact. Connect with Larry on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. To learn more about Larry Huch, visit larryhuchministries.com. To support our Israel outreaches, go to larryhuchministries.com/outreaches/. Get your copy of Seven Living Prophecies at larryhuchministries.com/the-seven-living-prophecies/.