My Two Bits: This song sums up much of Dylan's music from 1979-Present. Bob Dylan said in the late 1980's that his "born again" albums "laid down the law" for all of his later albums. This song demonstrates Dylan's belief (based on Scripture) that the love between a man and woman is a central aspect of the covenant God has made with mankind. Not only is the relationship a necessary part of establishing God's kingdom, but it is also a relationship that draws parallels with God's relationship with humanity. The Church, after all, is called the "bride" of Christ. Dylan draws on this parallel in many of his later songs (especially in the songs on Time Out of Mind) to create fascinating double meanings in his songs.
This song is simpler, however. It is an honest expression of desire to share a lifetime of God's salvation with a woman "closer than any friend".
My Two Bits: This song sums up much of Dylan's music from 1979-Present. Bob Dylan said in the late 1980's that his "born again" albums "laid down the law" for all of his later albums. This song demonstrates Dylan's belief (based on Scripture) that the love between a man and woman is a central aspect of the covenant God has made with mankind. Not only is the relationship a necessary part of establishing God's kingdom, but it is also a relationship that draws parallels with God's relationship with humanity. The Church, after all, is called the "bride" of Christ. Dylan draws on this parallel in many of his later songs (especially in the songs on Time Out of Mind) to create fascinating double meanings in his songs.
This song is simpler, however. It is an honest expression of desire to share a lifetime of God's salvation with a woman "closer than any friend".