Preface.

depicts and shows—namely the close bond of union between Christ and his Church: in such a way that just as the Husband is bound with an unbreakable bond to his Wife, so that they have mutual fellowship in everything; so also Christ has betrothed himself so closely with the Church that she has a share and fellowship in the treasures of his benefits, etc. This union is called the Marriage of the Lamb original: "Bruyloft des Lams" Rev. 19:7, Rev. 21:9. And in this regard it is that Christ is called a Bridegroom John 3:29, Mark 2:19, Matt. 9:15. Just as on the other side the Church is called the Bride and Wife of the Lamb Rev. 19:7, Rev. 21:9. It is of this Bride and Wife of the Lamb, namely the Church, that is here presented and spoken.

2. That which is now said and testified of her is that she appears:
1. As the dawn.
2. That she is beautiful as the Moon.
3. Chosen or pure as the Sun.
4. Terrifying as the battle arrays with flying banners.

A true representation by ascent and steps This "ascent" refers to the idea that the Church grows more visible and powerful over time, like the sun rising in the sky.:
1. Both of the rising and progress of the Church of Christ in herself.
2. As also of her most special and principal qualities.

Regarding her 1. rising and 2. progress:
1. Her rising is shown by the Dawn, for just as the Dawn shows itself with a small light and glimmers in the midst of the darkness, so has the Church likewise shown herself in the Old Testament, being enclosed in a very small number, especially in the time of the first Elders of the first age.
2. After the flood.
3. Of the Patriarchs under Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, in Chaldea, Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Canaan. Likewise in the New Testament, beginning in the Disciples and followers of Christ, still consisting in a very small number.

2. Her progress, increase, and spreading is shown by the Moon, Sun, etc. As those things that, gradually spreading themselves more, growing up and becoming greater, also show themselves with greater radiance; like a Moon shining in the darkness of the night, as happened in the Old Testament under the descendants of the Patriarchs, when the church spread herself more and more and increased, as in Egypt and thereafter: and in the New Testament was spread by the Apostles through many Cities and Lands.

3. Until she, increasing with time and growing more and more, finally has come to such great glory and prestige that she, like the Sun above the Stars, so also above all gatherings