The Bride of Christ Is Gathering

 The Bride of Christ Is Gathering: A Call to Readiness in These Times

Throughout Scripture, the image of the Church as the Bride of Christ captures the beauty, intimacy, and covenantal nature of God’s relationship with His people. It is not merely poetic—it is prophetic. And in these times, many sense that the Bride is not only being adorned but actively gathered from every nation, tribe, and tongue. What does it mean that the Bride of Christ is gathering now? And how should we live in light of this truth?

The Bride: A Biblical Portrait

The imagery of the Church as Christ’s Bride is woven throughout both the Old and New Testaments. From Hosea’s call to an unfaithful bride, to Paul’s exhortation in Ephesians 5 that Christ “loved the church and gave Himself up for her,” to the glorious marriage supper in Revelation 19, Scripture culminates in a wedding. This is not allegory—it’s destiny.

The Church is not a building, denomination, or social club. She is the redeemed Body of believers, made clean by the blood of the Lamb, being prepared for eternal union with her Bridegroom.

Signs of the Gathering

Across the globe, something unmistakable is happening. Despite cultural divisions, political upheaval, and growing hostility toward faith, there is a simultaneous awakening and uniting of believers. Online and underground, in megachurches and in living rooms, God is drawing hearts to Himself. Here are some signs that the Bride is currently gathering:

1. A Hunger for Purity
   Many believers are turning away from spiritual compromise and lukewarm faith. There’s a growing desire for holiness—not out of legalism, but out of love. The Bride longs to be found ready.

2. Global Evangelism and Unity
   The Gospel is going forth faster than ever—through media, missions, and mobilization. This acceleration is not random. Jesus said in Matthew 24:14 that the end will come after the Gospel is preached to all nations. This is not just outreach; it's a wedding invitation.

3. The Spirit of Intercession
   Prayer movements are rising up around the world—calling on Jesus to return, to cleanse, to unite. The Bride is speaking the language of longing: “Come, Lord Jesus.”

4. Persecution and Purification
   As hostility toward Christian faith increases in many parts of the world, believers are being refined. The Bride is being distinguished—not by comfort, but by commitment.

What Should We Do?

If we are living in a time when the Bride is being gathered, we must ask ourselves: are we preparing ourselves, or distracted by the world? Jesus warned of those who would be caught unaware, like the foolish virgins with no oil in their lamps.

Here are three responses to consider:

• Stay Watchful – The times are urgent. Jesus told us to watch and pray. Don't sleep through the season of preparation.

• Walk in Love – The Bride is known by her love for the Bridegroom and for others. Let love be the mark of your readiness.

• Pursue Holiness – Not to earn salvation, but to honor the One who gave everything for us. Holiness is the wedding garment of the saints.

The Final Gathering

Revelation 19:7 declares:
“Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.”

The gathering is not just global; it’s personal. Each of us is being called, cleansed, and invited. The Bride is not a theory—she’s alive, awakening, and preparing.

The question is: Will we be part of her?

Bishop Phil Spears  www.thechurchofgodsa.com