Do Not Destroy God's Temple

1 Corinthians 3:16-17

Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple, and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple. (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)

In his letter to the Corinthian church, the Apostle Paul addresses a community fractured by pride, jealousy, and factions. He reminds them, “Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple, and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” Here, Paul uses the metaphor of the temple—a holy place where God’s presence dwells—to emphasize that the church is not merely a human institution but a sacred unity of believers indwelt by the Holy Spirit.

Paul issues a sobering warning: “If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person; for God’s temple is holy, and you together are that temple.” This underscores the seriousness of division and sin within the church. God’s judgment falls on those who harm the unity and holiness of His people, as the church reflects His glory to the world.

Paul’s message is a call to live in humility and love. If you are struggling to love a brother or sister in Christ, examine your heart and address any pride, bitterness, or selfishness that may be present. Repent of these sins, and rely on the Spirit’s power to obey Christ’s command to love others. Only through sacrificial, Christlike love can the church overcome division and embody the unity that proves God dwells among His people. ~ Jeff M Newman

If you have any prayer requests, please share them in the comments.

Prayer Request:

I will be teaching a Bible class at my church on February 9, 16, and 23, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at 29825 Santiago Rd, Temecula, CA 92592. Please pray that God speaks through me and that those who attend will grow in their faith.

If you would like to attend, here’s the link to sign up.

(Photo by Sean Oulashin on Unsplash. Berean Standard Bible.)