Christ's desire for His Church is a profound theme woven throughout the New Testament, reflecting His love, purpose, and ultimate plan for His followers. This desire is multifaceted, encompassing unity, holiness, love, and mission.

Unity and Oneness

One of the central desires of Christ for His Church is unity. In His high priestly prayer, Jesus prays for His followers, "that all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. May they also be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me" (John 17:21). This unity is not merely organizational but spiritual, reflecting the oneness of the Father and the Son. It is a unity that serves as a testimony to the world of the divine mission of Christ.

Holiness and Purity

Christ desires His Church to be holy and blameless. In Ephesians 5:25-27, Paul writes, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a glorious church, without stain or wrinkle or any such blemish, but holy and blameless" . This passage illustrates Christ's sacrificial love and His intention to purify the Church, setting her apart for His purposes.

Love and Service

The love of Christ for His Church is both a model and a mandate. Jesus commands His disciples, "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another" (John 13:34). This love is to be the defining characteristic of His followers, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Furthermore, Christ's desire is for His Church to serve one another and the world, as seen in His teaching, "The greatest among you shall be your servant" (Matthew 23:11).

Mission and Evangelism

Christ's desire for His Church includes the fulfillment of the Great Commission. In Matthew 28:19-20, He instructs, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you" . This mission is central to the Church's identity and purpose, calling believers to spread the Gospel and make disciples across the globe.

Perseverance and Faithfulness

Christ desires His Church to persevere in faith and remain steadfast amidst trials. In Revelation 2:10, He encourages the Church in Smyrna, "Be faithful, even unto death, and I will give you the crown of life" . This call to faithfulness is echoed throughout the New Testament, urging believers to hold fast to their faith and continue in the work of the Lord.

Conclusion

Christ's desire for His Church is a reflection of His love and purpose for humanity. Through unity, holiness, love, mission, and perseverance, the Church is called to embody the character and mission of Christ, serving as His representative on earth until His return.