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Daily Devotions

Ephesians

Ephesians 
Day 
Day 117

"In whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord."

Text: Ephesians 2:21

A HOLY TEMPLE IN THE LORD

How should we understand this phrase? Let us consider the following considerations:-

1. In the Lord

This is an important clue as to what this “holy temple” really is.

a) It is a reference to the spiritual realm.
b) It is mystically found “in the Lord”.
c) The spiritual rather than the spatial aspect is to be borne in mind.

2. A holy temple

a) Holiness

The concept of “godliness” (“hagios”) is strongly drawn from the Old Testament Scriptures. Included in the concept of godliness are the following:-

i) The holiness of the temple is linked directly to the holiness of God Himself.
ii) The idea of purity of the Church is highlighted.
iii) An awed sense of sacredness must be maintained.
b) Temple

The concept of the “temple” (“naos”) is certainly Old Testament in origin. The following concepts must be maintained carefully:-

i) Worship must be borne in mind.
ii) Sacred service must be offered to the Lord.
iii) Reverence for the Lord’s House must be maintained.
iv) A deep sense of love and regard must also be cultivated and maintained.

HOW DO WE REGARD THE CHURCH OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST?

It would be important for us to ask ourselves how we regard the institution we call “the Church”. If our concept of the Church is defective, then we must make every effort to rectify the problem. A correct or incorrect regard of the “holy temple” will affect our relationship with the Lord and with the Church. Let us ensure that we have the highest regard for the holy temple that God is still working on.