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I. THE CHURCH IS GLORIOUS EVEN NOW.

1. Glorious in its foundation (Ephesians 2:20).

2. Glorious in its progress, Although the storms of persecution have beat upon it, yet doth the building rise. Like the ark on the wild waters, it hath safely outridden the fury of every storm till now, nay, hath only been landed on its firm Ararat of rest by the very force of the revolutionary wave.

3. Glorious in its ever-growing empire.

4. Glorious in power in the power which comes from wealth, in the power which comes from learning and literature — in the power which comes of numbers, and of numbers organized — in the power which comes of many edifices and splendid architecture — in the power which comes of elegance, and wealth, and refinement, in private life.

II. THE CHURCH WILL BE MORE GLORIOUS YET on the day of presentation.

1. Glorious in position, immunities, and honour. Though now often poor, despised, and persecuted, she shall then be proclaimed the Lamb's wife, and be lifted up to sit with Christ on His throne.

2. Glorious in holiness and purity.

(1)  Perfect. No "spot."

(2)  Youthful. No "wrinkle."

(3)  Without trace of earthly infirmity. No "blemish."

3. Glorious in bliss. If pure it must also be happy; for only the pure can be truly glad. Heaven is a very gladsome and blessed place. Its trees are green forever. Its rivers and seas are clear as crystal. Its music is an eternal symphony. Its light is brighter than the sun — it is the light of purity and bliss.

(J. W. Atkinson.)

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KJV: Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

WEB: Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the assembly, and gave himself up for it;