Bridegroom
In Scripture, a bridegroom is a man on the way to marriage. The image is also used especially of Christ in relation to His people, highlighting covenant love, joy, and readiness for His coming.
At a Glance
In Scripture, a bridegroom is a man on the way to marriage. The image is also used especially of Christ in relation to His people, highlighting covenant love, joy, and readiness for His coming.
Description
In its basic sense, a bridegroom is a man joined or soon to be joined to a bride in marriage. Scripture uses the term both literally and figuratively. In the Old Testament, wedding language can describe the Lord’s covenant relationship with His people, preparing the way for later messianic use. In the New Testament, Jesus is presented as the bridegroom, especially in contexts that stress joy in His presence, the appropriateness of His ministry, and the need to be ready for His return. The image does not erase the variety of biblical pictures for the people of God, but it clearly communicates covenant love, belonging, purity, and expectation. The safest conclusion is that “bridegroom” is a biblical metaphor that, in its theological use, refers chiefly to Christ in relation to His people.