In what ways can we ensure our lives reflect being God's temple? The promise of God’s dwelling 2 Corinthians 6:16 — “What agreement can exist between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: ‘I will dwell with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be My people.’” • God literally takes up residence in every believer through His Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16). • Because He dwells within, our whole lifestyle must match His holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16). Guarding the purity of the temple • Separate from idolatry and anything that competes with Christ’s rule (1 John 5:21). • Flee sexual immorality—sin against one’s own body defiles God’s house (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). • Watch the gateways: – Eyes—refuse entertainment that celebrates sin (Psalm 101:3). – Ears—filter conversations and music that grieve the Spirit (Ephesians 4:29-30). – Mind—take every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). • Practice repentance quickly; cleansing restores fellowship (1 John 1:9). Offering continual worship • Present your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). • Cultivate praise and thanksgiving; they are “spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God” (Hebrews 13:15). • Obedience is worship: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Hosting daily communion with Him • Immerse yourself in Scripture; His word sanctifies (John 17:17). • Pray without ceasing—conversation with the Resident King keeps the heart tuned (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Yield to the Spirit’s promptings; He illuminates, convicts, and empowers holy living (Galatians 5:16). Serving as holy priests • Represent God to people by displaying His character—love, truth, integrity (Matthew 5:16). • Intercede for others; priestly ministry includes carrying their needs before the Father (1 Timothy 2:1). • Use Spirit-given gifts to build up fellow believers; every act of service adorns the temple (1 Peter 4:10-11). Living stones together • God is building one sanctuary, not scattered shrines (Ephesians 2:19-22). • Pursue unity and forgiveness; division fractures the temple walls (Colossians 3:12-15). • Gather regularly; corporate worship proclaims that God dwells among His people (Hebrews 10:24-25). Growing in holiness until He appears • “Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every impurity of body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1). • The Spirit’s indwelling is a down payment of future glory; let today’s purity prepare you for the day the dwelling becomes visible (Revelation 21:3). |
    |