Ephesians 5:29 Meaning and Explanation
“For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →As people care for their own bodies, so Christ nourishes and cherishes the church.
What Does Ephesians 5:29 Mean?
Paul appeals to common experience: 'no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it.' We instinctively feed and care for our own bodies. This natural care becomes the picture of how a husband should treat his wife and how Christ treats His people.
'Even as the Lord the church.' Christ nourishes and cherishes His people tenderly, providing for them and holding them dear. The words 'nourish' and 'cherish' breathe warmth and gentleness. The love Paul commends is not cold duty but the warm, attentive care that Christ Himself shows the church.
Ephesians 5:29 in the Original Language
thalpo (θάλπω), 'cherisheth' -- to warm, to keep warm, to care for tenderly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ephesians 5:29
What does Ephesians 5:29 mean?
As people care for their own bodies, so Christ nourishes and cherishes the church.