The Body and Bride of Christ

The Body of Christ is conceived and born in Holy Baptism.

His preaching of the Gospel, which is the forgiveness of sins, is the Breath of Life which animates His Body.

And the Sacrament of the Altar is the beating heart of His Body.

So, also,

The Bride of Christ is betrothed to her Groom in Holy Baptism.

His Word of Holy Absolution, that is, the forgiveness of sins, is His solemn vow to have and to hold her, even against death and hell; it is His solemn pledge of faithfulness forever and ever.

And the Holy Communion is the undefiled marriage bed within the inner sanctum of the bridal chamber, in the house that Christ has built for His beloved.

Therefore,

To live as the Body and Bride of Christ, is to live by faith in His Ministry of the Gospel; which faith and life He accomplishes in us by the gracious gift and working of His Word and Holy Spirit in the preaching and administration of His Gospel.

So are the children of God conceived and born of His Bride, the Church, by His grace.