Why was Paul jealous over the church with a godly jealousy?
Paul’s motive was godly jealousy because he had espoused the church—members of the Body of Christ—to one husband, Christ. He desired to present them as a chaste, pure virgin to Christ, echoing the virgin-bride image and purity represented by white linen.
Les explains that Paul is writing to Gentile believers, including Jews in the Age of Grace, but specifically to members of the Body of Christ. Paul says he is jealous over them with a godly jealousy because he has espoused them to one husband, so he may present them as a chaste or pure virgin to Christ. Les calls this a beautiful picture. It connects to the bride in Revelation being clothed in linen, bright and white and clean, because of the virgin-bride concept and purity. Les also notes the ancient cultural practice where parents literally paired the children, unlike modern ways.
For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.
More Questions
Why did Paul say he had espoused the church to one husband?
Paul’s purpose in espousing the church to one husband was to present her as a chaste or pure virgin to Christ.