Ephesians 5:26 – “To make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse continues Paul’s teaching on how husbands should love their wives, using Christ’s love for the church as the model. Here, Paul explains one of the purposes of Christ’s love—to make His church holy and pure.

• “To make her holy” – The goal of Christ’s love for the church is not just forgiveness but transformation. He desires to set the church apart as holy and devoted to God.
• “Cleansing her” – This refers to spiritual purification from sin. When a person comes to Christ, they are washed clean from guilt and spiritual defilement.
• “By the washing with water through the word” – This phrase likely refers to both baptism and the power of God’s Word. Baptism is an outward sign of cleansing, while God’s Word is what truly transforms the heart.

Paul’s message is clear: Just as Christ works to make the church holy, husbands are called to lead their wives spiritually and encourage their growth in faith.

Historical Context

In Paul’s time, water was often used as a symbol of cleansing and purification. Jews practiced ritual washings to prepare for worship, and baptism was seen as a sign of spiritual renewal.

Many Gentiles in Ephesus came from backgrounds filled with idolatry, immorality, and corruption. When they became believers, they needed to be cleansed from their old ways and renewed by God’s truth.

Paul’s use of “washing with water through the word” would have reminded his readers that coming to Christ involves a complete renewal of the heart and mind.

Theological Implications

1. Christ’s love purifies and transforms. Jesus does not just forgive sin—He cleanses and renews His people so they can live holy lives (Titus 3:5).
2. God’s Word is the instrument of spiritual cleansing. The Bible reveals truth, convicts of sin, and leads believers to a life of righteousness (John 17:17).
3. Marriage should reflect spiritual growth. Husbands are called to encourage their wives’ faith and help them grow in holiness (1 Peter 3:7).
4. Salvation is not just about forgiveness—it’s about holiness. Christ’s goal is to transform His people into His image, not just to save them from punishment (Romans 8:29).

Literary Analysis

Paul uses rich symbolic language:

• “To make her holy” – This describes Christ’s role in sanctifying the church. Sanctification means to be set apart for God’s purposes.
• “Cleansing her” – This emphasizes spiritual renewal, much like Old Testament rituals where priests would wash before entering God’s presence.
• “Washing with water through the word” – This connects two powerful themes in Scripture:
  • Water – Represents cleansing, renewal, and baptism.
  • The Word – Represents truth, teaching, and spiritual life.

This shows that true transformation comes through Christ and His Word.

Biblical Cross-References

• John 17:17 – “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.”
• Titus 3:5 – “He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”
• Hebrews 10:22 – “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.”
• Psalm 119:9 – “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For believers, this verse reminds us that Christ is constantly working in us to make us more like Him.

• Are we allowing Christ’s Word to cleanse and renew us daily?
• Do we take holiness seriously, or do we take grace for granted?
• Are we investing in spiritual growth through studying Scripture and prayer?

For husbands, this verse is a challenge:

• Are you leading your wife spiritually?
• Are you encouraging her growth in faith through prayer, Bible study, and Christlike love?
• Do you love your wife in a way that points her closer to Jesus?

This verse is not just about marriage—it’s about every believer’s walk with Christ.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in His desire for us to be holy and pure.

• God does not leave us in sin. He cleanses and renews us so we can live in close fellowship with Him.
• God’s love leads to transformation. True love does not ignore sin—it purifies and restores.
• God provides everything we need for holiness. Through His Word and the Holy Spirit, He gives us the power to live for Him.

God’s love is not just about salvation—it’s about sanctification.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the one who purifies His people.

• John 15:3 – “You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.”
• 1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
• Revelation 19:7-8 – The church is described as a bride made pure and ready for Christ.
• Hebrews 12:2 – Jesus endured the cross to make His people holy.

Jesus does not just save us from sin—He transforms us to be His holy bride.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does Christ’s cleansing power impact your daily walk with Him?
2. Are you regularly allowing God’s Word to wash over you and shape your life?
3. For husbands: How are you encouraging your wife’s spiritual growth?
4. What does it mean to be “set apart” for Christ in practical ways?
5. How can we grow in holiness without falling into legalism?