1. The Temple of God

2. Introduction During the Mosaic Age, sacrifices were offered at the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. Today, in the Christian dispensation, the church is God’s house of worship and service. In many ways, the church is a realization of the Old Testament symbolism associated with the Tabernacle/Temple.

3. The Temple of God in Prophecy Zechariah said the Branch would build the temple of the Lord (Zechariah 6:11-15). Malachi said the Lord would come suddenly to his temple and purify his people (Malachi 3:1-4).

4. The Temple of God in Purpose When Jesus died on the cross, the veil of the temple was torn asunder (Matthew 27:50-54; Mark 15:37-39; Luke 23:44-47; cf. Exodus 26:31-35), symbolizing the accomplishment of Christ’s intercessory purpose (Hebrews 9:1-14, 23-28).

5. The Temple of God in Practice The temple of God is sacred (1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 2 Corinthians 6:14- 18). The temple of God is growing (Ephesians 2:19-22; 4:11-16). The Temple of God is living (1 Corinthians 3:9; 1 Peter 2:4-10).

6. The Temple of God in Promise The one who overcomes will become a pillar in the temple of God (Revelation 3:11-12). Those who endure the great tribulation are before the throne of God and serve Him day and night in His temple (Revelation 7:13-17). The holy city, the New Jerusalem, contains no temple, for the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb are its temple (Revelation 21:1-4, 10-14, 22-27).

7. Conclusion Are you a member of the church of Christ, i.e., God’s spiritual house (Acts 2:38, 46- 47)? Have you been cleansed and purified by the blood of Christ (Acts 22:16; Titus 3:5- 7)?