In our daily rush, it’s easy to forget the profound truth that Apostle Paul shares with us in 1 Corinthians 3:16-17: “You realize, don’t you, that you are the temple of God, and God himself is present in you? No one will get by with vandalizing God’s temple, you can be sure of that. God’s temple is sacred—and you, remember, are the temple.”
For those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior, as stated in Romans 10:9-10—“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved”—this scripture serves as a powerful reminder of our new identity in Christ. Let’s delve into this beautiful revelation and explore how it can transform our lives and inspire others to accept Jesus and be saved.
1. Embracing Our Divine Nature
When Paul says, “You are the temple of God,” he’s affirming that, through accepting Jesus and His gift of salvation, our bodies, hearts, and souls become the dwelling place of the Almighty. This is not a metaphor but a spiritual reality. Imagine the sacredness of the ancient temple in Jerusalem, a place where God’s presence was palpable, a sanctuary of holiness. Now, realize that we are that sacred space. God chooses to reside in us, making every part of our being holy.
This truth should fill us with awe and a sense of responsibility. How do we honor this temple? How do we maintain its sanctity? By aligning our actions, thoughts, and desires with God’s will. By treating ourselves and others with the reverence that sacredness demands.
2. Protecting Our Sacred Space
Paul warns that no one will get by with vandalizing God’s temple. This is both a promise of protection and a call to vigilance. We live in a world where many forces seek to desecrate what is holy. Temptations, negative influences, and harmful behaviors threaten to mar the purity of God’s temple.
Protecting our sacred space means being mindful of what we allow into our lives. It involves setting boundaries, choosing positive influences, and rejecting anything that defiles our minds, bodies, or spirits. It also means seeking God’s strength and wisdom to overcome these challenges, knowing that He is fiercely protective of His dwelling place within us.
3. Living in the Awareness of God’s Presence
The awareness that “God himself is present in you” is transformative. For those who have declared Jesus as Lord and believed in their hearts that God raised Him from the dead, this changes everything. This divine presence is a source of comfort, strength, and guidance. It reminds us that we are never alone, no matter the circumstances. God is with us, within us, and working through us.
This awareness should inspire us to live in a way that reflects God’s love, grace, and holiness. When we acknowledge that we carry God’s presence, our actions begin to mirror His character. We become more loving, compassionate, patient, and kind. Our lives become a testimony of God’s goodness.
4. A Call to Accept Jesus and Be Saved
If you have not yet accepted Jesus as your Savior, know that this divine presence, this transformation, is available to you. Romans 10:9-10 clearly states that salvation is a matter of believing in your heart and confessing with your mouth that Jesus is Lord. This simple yet profound act invites God’s presence into your life, making you His holy temple.
Accepting Jesus is the beginning of a new life, filled with God’s love, guidance, and protection. It’s an invitation to embrace your true identity as a sacred temple of God, to live in His presence, and to experience His transformative power.
If you are ready to accept Jesus and be saved, pray this prayer of salvation:
Salvation Prayer:
“Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior. Thank You for saving me and for making me Your holy temple. Amen.”
Conclusion
“You realize, don’t you, that you are the temple of God, and God himself is present in you?” Let these words resonate deeply within your heart. For those who have accepted Jesus, embrace your divine nature, protect your sacred space, and live in the awareness of God’s presence. And for those who haven’t yet accepted Jesus, know that this invitation is open to you today. Declare with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, and be saved.
You are not just human—you are the holy dwelling place of God. Let this truth guide you, inspire you, and transform you each day, and may it call others to the same beautiful salvation and transformation.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
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