Tasting Love

O. T. #1548  "Tasting Love"
Oct. 21, 2019
Introduction to Song of Solomon

We have come to the most dreaded book of the Bible for me to post. I have read different commentaries and prayed for the right approach in discussing it. so my conclusion is the best way for us to learn from Solomon is to take two approaches here. The first approach will be to take it as a story of a man and his bride, and their marriage. The second approach will be we the Church as the Bride of Christ and He as the Groom.

I don't know your situation, whether you are married or not, but can always learn for our self and for others. There must be a reason that God permitted this book to be included in the Bible. What can we learn from it?

BACKGROUND

We read of a Shulamite maiden, who is a member of the Shunem family. Her father appears to be deceased, so her brother are responsible for the family. Her brothers shepherd the flocks and she tends the vineyards. This maiden meets and falls in love with a young shepherd. Her brothers do not approve of him.

King Solomon, a younger man, and his men are returning form a trip to his northern territory. Solomon is struck by this maiden's beauty and takes her to his harem. The rustic country girl can't escape and is eventually taken to the splendid palace of the king.

The king attempts to win this gal's affection, but she refuses him, remaining faithful to the love of her life. Finally, Solomon recognizes that his beloved's heart belongs to another and not him. He releases her to return home, then she is reunited with her love.


SPIRITUAL APPLICATION

The marriage relationship is used to describe the relationship between Christ and the church. Not only the local church, but the collective church of all believers is in reference here. We are one in Christ since He is in us and we are in Him, spiritually. He showed His love for us by dying on the cross in our place and paying for our sins. He loves us now as He cares for us, feeds us with His Word, and seeks to make us beautiful spiritually. He will love us in eternity when we attend the marriage of the Lamb. Christ will return for us believers His bride and take us to heaven.

PREPARE 

Love is better than all other pleasures life offers. Are we tasting the great pleasures of love?
We are loved by God. How are we showing Hum that we love Him?