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Bruce Hempel delivers a sermon on Valentine’s Day exploring the biblical theme of Christ as the bridegroom and the Church as his bride. He uses Old Testament stories as analogies to illustrate this relationship and calls believers to a deep, devoted love for Christ, moving beyond initial excitement to a mature, enduring commitment.
[00:00:17]The sermon begins on Valentine’s Day, with a brief mention of Saint Valentine as a historical believer and martyr, transitioning into a discussion on the biblical definition of a saint as any believer who is holy and set apart for Christ.[00:05:02]The creation of Eve from Adam’s side in Genesis 2 is presented as an analogy: just as woman came from man, the Church was born from Christ’s side on the cross, created to be a suitable helper for Him.[00:11:24]The story of Abraham’s servant finding Rebekah for Isaac in Genesis 24 is given as homework. It illustrates how the bride (the Church) is called out from the world to inherit the promises and should have a heart to serve, like Rebekah watering the camels.[00:14:53]The story of Ruth and Boaz is recommended reading. Ruth, a Moabite, demonstrates faithful love and is noticed for her noble character by Boaz, a picture of Christ seeking a bride with a heart of faithfulness and devotion.[00:20:47]Believers are warned not to lose their “first love” for Christ (Revelation 2), while also nurturing a mature, deeper love that develops through walking with Him through all of life’s experiences.[00:24:03]In Matthew 9:14-15, Jesus identifies himself as the bridegroom, explaining that his disciples did not fast while he was with them but would after he was taken away, establishing fasting as a practice for the current era.[00:27:13]The parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) is a sober call to be ready and watchful for Christ’s return, emphasizing that true love for the Lord is shown in daily preparedness and devotion, not just a desire for heaven’s benefits.[00:30:49]A distinction is made between being a “wedding guest” and being the “bride,” challenging believers to seek the deepest level of intimacy and whole-hearted devotion to Christ.[00:31:40]The sermon concludes in Revelation 19 and 21, where the marriage of the Lamb is fulfilled and the bride (the New Jerusalem) is made ready. The final invitation from the Spirit and the bride is for all to come to Christ.
Scripture References
- Genesis 2
- Genesis 24
- Ruth 1
- Ruth 2:11-12
- Matthew 9:14-15
- Matthew 25:1-13
- Revelation 2
- Revelation 19:6-9
- Revelation 21:2
- Revelation 22:17
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