Dictionary of Bible Themes » 6000 Sin and salvation » 6600 Aspects of salvation » 6754 union with Christ » 6755 union with Christ, nature of
The nature of the union of Jesus Christ with believers is explained using a number of central images. The NT stresses the reality, closeness and considerable benefits of this union.
A covenantal relationship
OT background
Isaiah 54:5-8 The marriage covenant is used to illustrate the intimacy of the relationship between God and his people. See also Jeremiah 3:14; Jeremiah 31:32; Hosea 2:7,16
In the NT
Ephesians 5:31-32
A relationship deepened through the incarnation
John 1:14 See also Romans 8:3; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 4:4; Philippians 2:7-8; 1 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 2:14-18
A relationship personally entered through faith
John 3:16 See also John 1:12; John 2:11; John 7:38; Acts 16:31; Romans 3:22; Romans 8:1; Romans 10:9-10; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 2:16
A relationship enriched through the sacraments
Baptism
Romans 6:3-5; Galatians 3:27 See also Matthew 28:19; Romans 6:8; Colossians 2:11-12
The Lord's Supper
Matthew 26:26-28 pp Mark 14:22-24 pp Luke 22:17-20; 1 Corinthians 10:16; Corinthians 11:23-29
A relationship that affects every aspect of life
1 Corinthians 6:17 See also John 15:1-8; John 17:20-26; Romans 8:9-11; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Galatians 2:20
It is a mysterious relationship
Colossians 1:27 See also Ephesians 5:32
See also
2369 Christ, responses to 2595 incarnation 4018 life, spiritual 6214 participation in Christ 6676 justification 7115 children of God 7155 saints 7903 baptism 7933 Lord's Supper 8102 abiding in Christ 8206 Christlikeness 8258 fruitfulness, spiritual
