How can we actively contribute to building God's "holy temple" today? The Foundation of the Holy Temple • “In Him the whole building is fitted together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord” (Ephesians 2:21). • This temple rests “on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone” (Ephesians 2:20). • Because Scripture is entirely true and reliable, every contribution we make must align with the revealed Word. Living Stones in Christ • Believers are “living stones” being “built into a spiritual house” (1 Peter 2:4-5). • God personally places each stone; our task is to yield to His placement and purpose. • The Holy Spirit dwells in us individually (1 Corinthians 6:19) and corporately (1 Corinthians 3:16-17), making our lives part of God’s present-day sanctuary. Ways We Contribute Today 1. Cultivating Christ-centered unity – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). 2. Teaching and defending sound doctrine – “Hold firmly to the trustworthy message” (Titus 1:9). 3. Exercising spiritual gifts – “To each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). 4. Practicing sacrificial love – “Walk in love, just as Christ loved us” (Ephesians 5:2). 5. Engaging in corporate worship and fellowship – “Not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another” (Hebrews 10:25). Guarding Purity and Unity • Holiness: “You are the temple of the living God” (2 Corinthians 6:16). Personal purity protects the whole structure. • Reconciliation: Resolve conflicts quickly (Matthew 5:23-24) so no cracks form in the temple walls. • Discipline: Church correction (Matthew 18:15-17) removes rot and preserves integrity. Practical Steps for Daily Life • Start each day in Scripture; let truth square every stone you lay. • Pray for fellow believers by name, strengthening unseen mortar. • Look for one act of service that reflects Christ’s love—small bricks make mighty walls. • Speak edifying words; refuse gossip that erodes trust (Ephesians 4:29). • Give generously—time, resources, encouragement—so the temple rises without shortage (2 Corinthians 9:7). Encouragement to Persevere • “He who began a good work in you will perfect it” (Philippians 1:6). The Master Builder guarantees completion. • Every obedient choice adds lasting beauty; nothing done in the Lord is wasted (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Keep your eyes on the coming day when “the dwelling place of God is with man” (Revelation 21:3). The present house will stand forever, and your faithful labor is part of its eternal glory. |
    |