2 Chronicles ch2-4, 1 Corinthians 6: 19-20, 1 Peter 2: 4, 1 Peter 2: 9
If we look at the world today there are many beautiful buildings in existence, the Taj Mahal for instance is a fantastic building. It is described by the English poet, Sir Edwin Arnold, as "Not a piece of architecture, as other buildings are, but the proud passions of an emperor's love wrought in living stones*." But the sad reality is that it's a dead woman's tomb.
In Chronicles we read about all the beautiful things that went into the building framework of the temple and then also about the ornate decorations and furniture too. It took over seven years to build and there was no building to equal its beauty.
But now there are thousands even millions all over the world that probably match its beauty and in fact may surpass it.
1 Corinthians 6: 19-20
We all know that God no longer lives in a building or place but through His Holy Spirit God now dwells in us and as the Bible truly says (*reference to quote above) in 1 Peter 2: 4
'As you come to Him, the living Stone--rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to Him, you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
As Christians we have a duty to look after our bodies "you were bought at a price" we can no longer do just anything we wish, we have got to realise we now belong to a Holy God.
Sadly though, like a lot of old churches that we see around our city and country a lot of Gods new temples often lie in disrepair, but these are through self neglect.
If we want people to see Gods glory, it will be through the upkeep of His earthly temple, you and me constantly getting in front of God and seeking His face.
1 Peter 2: 9
'But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.'
So forget d-i-ying and get d-i-eing to self and seek Gods Kingdom first and live a life that glorifies a Holy God and Wonderful Saviour.
The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.