Relationship Between Christ and the Church

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CHRIST AND THE CHURCH

The relationship between Christ and His church is illustrated in a number of figurative ways in the New Testament.

1. Christ is the shepherd and we are the sheep. He cares for us and we are secure in him.

2. Christ is the vine and we are the branches. We bear fruit as we draw strength from the vine.

3. Christ is the cornerstone and we are the stones of the building. Cornerstones are the first and give direction to the entire building. 

4. Christ is the high priest and we are a kingdom of priests. As priests, we can offer substance, self and service to the Lord.

 5. Christ is the head and we are members of his body. The head directs the members to serve. 

6. Christ is the last Adam and we are the new creation. We partake of his resurrection power and live as the first was intended to.

7. Christ is the bridegroom and the church is his bride.

8 Christ is the heir and we are joint heirs. We share in all that he inherited from the Father.

9. Christ is the first-fruits and we are the harvest. His resurrection guarantees our resurrection. 

10.  Christ is the Master and we are his servants. Servants do the will of the master and are rewarded according to our faithfulness.