There is a somewhat hidden lesson in what Jesus taught regarding the Bride of Christ, but to apprehend it one needs to know something of the Jewish form for marriage. A betrothal period is counted as binding, as if one were married already. But the actual wedding is a future event anticipated during a betrothal period. I believe the ‘betrothal period’ is that span of life during which fidelity to The Christ is established. Following strictly the ten commandments? No, only Jesus was able to accomplish that. But following the two great commandments Jesus explained to the Pharisees, yes, that is what the trimming of the lamps int eh parable of the virgins is all about. You cannot earn salvation, but you can fall short of fidelity to your vows ... and God even taught that the unfaithful could repent and return to Him. Jesus taught on this notion with several of His parables and in the Sermon on The Mount. He also emphasized it with the churches spoken of in Revelations. The essence of OSAS is that remaining in a fideltiy with The Lord Christ assures salvation once one plights their troth with Him. even if it requires repentence and turning from sin long after the moment of His saving Grace applied to the human spirit. ... And at 65, having been saved in my twenties, I speak from deacdes of experiencing the Grace of God in Christ for I am a living sinner saved by His Grace. Thanks be to God.
Very well said. Thank you, brother.