The Temple of God

And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. (2 Corinthians 6:16)

In the Old Testament, God moved into a temple made by human hands. Solomon had it constructed. It was magnificent, made of gold, cedar, and the finest materials available to mankind. After its completion, God filled it with His Glory. However, this incredible temple didn’t grant access to just anyone. Entry was restricted to a select few. The average Israelite could not enter the Holy of Holies. Only the High Priest, once a year on the Day of Atonement, could do so; and even then, he had to come with a sacrifice and preparation, under the threat that if he came in wrong, he would come out dead.

One man, one day, once a year - that was the level of access people had to God's presence under the Old Covenant.

When Jesus died, the veil in the temple was torn from top to bottom. Not from the bottom up, as if a man tore it. From the top down, as if God Himself tore it. Then He did something that no one expected. He moved out of a building made with human hands and into every believer. You are now the temple of the Holy Spirit. This does not mean a building or a specific denomination. You—your body—is the temple of the living God, and He said, "I will dwell in them and walk with them." God is not just visiting; He is indwelling. He is not passing through; He is walking with you. You carry the presence of the Holy Spirit everywhere you go. Every room you enter, God walks in with you.You are never alone, not for a single moment. God is with you.

Practical Application

The next time you feel afraid, lonely, or overwhelmed, remind yourself that you are the temple of the living God. He is dwelling with you now. He will walk with you through the trouble. Every room you enter, you do so with the Greater One inside of you. Act accordingly.

Colossians 1:13; 1 Corinthians 3:17