Definition: That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Ephesians 5:26. It's a really beautiful and important passage about how we should relate to God and to each other. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “That he might make us holy and pure, by using the words of God to cleanse ourselves and others.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “He” – referring to God. This isn't just about us individually. It refers to God Himself. “Sanctify” – This means to make something holy or sacred. Think of it like giving something a special, protected quality. “Cleanse” – This means to remove impurities or dirt. It’s like getting rid of something bad. “With the washing of water by the word” – This is the key part! The “washing of water” represents the power and truth of God's Word - the Bible. The "word" refers to Jesus Christ and the teachings in Scripture. So, what does it mean practically? It means that when we read and study the Bible (and when we speak about it), we are actively working to: Make ourselves more holy: We become more like God by practicing goodness, love, and righteousness. Remove our imperfections: We let go of bad thoughts, sinful desires, and negative behaviors that pull us away from God. Teach others: By sharing the truth of the Bible, we’re helping to make the world a better place – encouraging people to follow God's principles. In short, it’s about spiritual growth and living in a way that honors God. Does that make sense? Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or perhaps explore how this applies to your life? For example, are you curious about: How this relates to prayer? How it's used in a specific context (like the marriage chapter)?