The Bible teaches us a lot through paradigms. A paradigm is a specific way of thinking. We are supposed to use our imagination and enter into this way of thinking when it is presented in the scriptures. All throughout the Word the “bridal” paradigm is highlighted.
John the Baptist understood this paradigm found in Old Testament prophesies. Look at how he addressed himself to Jesus in John (3:29): The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. He calls the church the bride, Jesus the bridegroom, and himself a friend of the bridegroom.
John the Beloved disciple of Jesus also understood this. Look at how he addressed the church in the book of Revelation. Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb! (Rev 19:9)
I believe the bridal paradigm is one of the most important paradigms in the Bible. In the beginning of the book of Revelation it says we will receive an extra blessing for taking it to heart…blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it. (Rev 1:1,3) It is also the last paradigm mentioned in the scriptures.
The First and Great Commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. In the context of a human relationship this level of intimacy that God desires of us comes within a marriage relationship. Being male, this paradigm was a stretch for me until I got married. Now I have a better understanding of it based on experience.
When I met Kate a whole new level of love came into my heart. This love was different than the love I previously experienced from my friends and family. This love was very fulfilling, protective, and sacrificial. There was something about being with Kate that made me feel more complete. I knew I needed to spend the rest of my life with her and would be willing to give up everything to be with her.
When I finally understood this paradigm of love, I also truly understood Easter. The cross no longer just meant cleansing me of all my dirty sins and giving me a chance for eternity. The cross now means there is someone who loves me so much that He wants to spend the rest of His life with me. He is willing to look past my imperfections and give up everything for me.
As I meditate on the cross and this form of love it transforms my heart. I see a God that is head over heels wildly in love with me. I remember the “engagement days” when I was lovesick for Kate. To think that right now Jesus is lovesick for me overwhelms me.
Do you understand how much Jesus loves you? Do you know He is lovesick for you? Do you know He wants to spend the rest of His life (eternity) with you? His love is so intense that He was willing to give up everything, even His own life, just for you.
I pray you may know the depths and riches of his love.
Grace and Peace, Andy Anderson