Husbands, Wives, and the Body of Christ

Genesis 2:18-25 ; Ephesians 5:18-33

In this lesson we are going to look at Adam and Eve as a type of Jesus Christ and the Church to learn a valuable lesson regarding husbands and wives.

Typology of Adam and Eve:

1) Adam is a type of Jesus Christ (Luke 3:38 ; Romans 5:14 ; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4)

• Adam was put into a deep sleep to get his bride, which pictures death. Jesus died in order to be able to receive his bride the church.
• Adam’s side was opened to get his bride, Jesus’ side was opened at his death as well (John 19:34)

2) Eve is a type of the church

• Made from the rib not dirt, which shows a special creation. Through the Holy Spirit we are a special creation as well.
• In the resurrection the dead in Christ come from within him to receive a glorified body. Eve came from within Adam to receive her body.
• Note also the position from where she came, the side. Husbands and wives stand side by side at a wedding.

Note that Adam used the word “cleave” in Genesis 2:24. The word cleave has two meanings;

1)  cleave – unite or be united closely in interest or affection. Adhere with strong attachment.

2)  cleave – part or divide by force, to open or severe.

It is obvious which one Adam is using but Paul clarifies it for us in Ephesians 5:31. The more we understand about Jesus and his bride through salvation the better husbands and wives we should be.

For there to be two there had to first be division of the one, Therefore the husband and the wife are one through the joining of marriage. If both parties could get the concept they are the same as Jesus is with his bride, it would be easier to perform the duties required by the word of God for husbands and wives.

Another way to think about it is for husbands to realize what if Jesus Christ treated us the way we treat our wives, and if we both were submitted unto Jesus as the wife is to be submitted unto the husband.