Loving the Bride More Than the Bridegroom

Throughout the New Testament, there is a picture painted through analogy.  It is that of the Church (those supposedly “saved”) as the Bride of Christ.  (See 2 Corinthians 11:2, Ephesians 5:25ff, and multiple instances in Revelation.)  Through this analogy, we are invited into a vision of relational purity, devotion, and intimacy with Jesus as the Bridegroom. 

Yet, tragically, many Christians (and even some who only identify as such) fall into the trap on loving the Bride more than the Bridegroom.  Nowhere is this more evident than in the Institutional Church, where loyalty to church structures, personalities, and programs often overshadows love for Jesus Himself.  This misalignment shows up in many ways, including (but not limited to): 

• A compulsion to serve the organization rather than pursuing authentic relationships within the Body.
• Elevation of church leaders into authoritarian roles that hinder personal spiritual growth.
• Disdain or shunning of believers who leave one local church for another.
• Judging those who step away from the institutional church altogether.
• Emphasis on branding over discipleship.
• Prioritizing building projects over kingdom mission.
• Cultivation of personality-centered leadership over Christ-centered humility.
• Clinging to doctrinal pride without love.
• Pursuing performance over true worship.

This results in a toxic cocktail of arrogance, idolatry, and misplaced affection.  Instead of reflecting Christ’s radiant love, we mirror self-absorption – a kind of spiritual “Bridezilla.”

Do we really want a self-centered Bride to represent our relationship with the One who laid down His life for us?

The Church’s highest calling is not to preserve itself but to prepare itself—to be a Bride made ready for her returning King. That preparation doesn’t come from self-focus or institutional maintenance. It comes from beholding and loving Jesus above all else.

“…Let us rejoice and exult and give Him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His Bride has made herself ready…” (Revelation 19:7)

Instead of looking inward to polish the Church’s reflection in the mirror, we must turn our gaze upward—toward Christ. He alone is the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). He alone makes us radiant. Without His finishing touch, we remain an unready Bride.