1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV: The Temple of God
Know Ye Not That Ye Are the Temple of God?
In 1 Corinthians 3:16, the apostle Paul writes, "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" (KJV). This verse is a powerful reminder of the significance of every believer's body as a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit.
The Temple of God
In the Old Testament, the temple was a sacred place where God's presence dwelled among His people. It was a symbol of God's presence and power. In the New Testament, however, the concept of the temple takes on a new meaning. Paul says that believers' bodies are now the temple of God, where the Holy Spirit resides.
The Holy Spirit Dwells in You
The phrase "and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you" emphasizes the reality of the Holy Spirit's presence in every believer. This is not just a figurative expression but a literal truth. The Holy Spirit takes up residence in every believer, making their body a sacred temple.
The Implications of Being the Temple of God
This verse has several implications for believers:
You are a sacred vessel
As the temple of God, your body is a sacred vessel, set apart for God's purposes. You are no longer your own, but you have been bought with a price (1 Corinthians 6:20).
You are indwelt by the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit dwells in you, guiding, directing, and empowering you to live a life pleasing to God.
You have a sacred responsibility
As the temple of God, you have a sacred responsibility to honor God with your body. You are to present your body as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God (Romans 12:1).
You are not your own
You are not your own, but you belong to God. Your body is not yours to do with as you please, but it is a sacred trust, given to you to glorify God.
Conclusion
In 1 Corinthians 3:16, Paul reminds us that our bodies are the temple of God, where the Holy Spirit dwells. This truth should inspire us to live a life of reverence, humility, and obedience to God. As the temple of God, we are called to honor God with our bodies, and to present ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God.
