Topical Bible: Temple of Christ, the Head of the Ekklesia (His Community, his Body, Cf

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Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of the "Temple of Christ, the Head of the Ekklesia" is a profound theological theme that emerges from the New Testament, emphasizing the spiritual and communal nature of the Church as the body of Christ. This entry explores the biblical foundation and significance of this concept, drawing from various scriptural passages.

Biblical Foundation

The New Testament presents the Church, or Ekklesia, as a living temple, with Christ as its cornerstone and head. This imagery is rooted in the teachings of the apostles, particularly Paul, who articulates the relationship between Christ and His followers in terms of a spiritual edifice.

1. Christ as the Head: In Ephesians 1:22-23, Paul writes, "And God put everything under His feet and made Him head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all." This passage underscores the authority and preeminence of Christ as the head of the Church, guiding and sustaining it.

2. The Church as the Body: The metaphor of the Church as the body of Christ is further elaborated in 1 Corinthians 12:27: "Now you are the body of Christ, and each of you is a member of it." This highlights the interconnectedness of believers, each playing a vital role in the functioning of the whole.

3. The Spiritual Temple: In 1 Peter 2:4-5, believers are described as "living stones" being built into a spiritual house: "As you come to Him, the living stone, rejected by men but chosen and precious in God’s sight, 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." This passage emphasizes the communal and sacred nature of the Church as a temple.

Theological Significance

The imagery of the Church as the Temple of Christ conveys several key theological insights:

- Unity and Diversity: The metaphor of the body illustrates the unity of believers in Christ, despite their diverse gifts and functions. Each member is essential, contributing to the health and mission of the Church.

- Holiness and Worship: As a spiritual temple, the Church is called to holiness, offering spiritual sacrifices through worship, service, and obedience to God. This reflects the Old Testament understanding of the temple as a place of divine presence and worship.

- Christ's Indwelling Presence: The concept of the Church as Christ's body and temple underscores His indwelling presence among His people. In Ephesians 2:21-22, Paul writes, "In Him the whole building is fitted together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord. And in Him you too are being built together into a dwelling place for God in His Spirit."

Practical Implications

Understanding the Church as the Temple of Christ has practical implications for Christian life and community:

- Commitment to Community: Believers are encouraged to actively participate in the life of the Church, recognizing their role in building up the body of Christ.

- Pursuit of Holiness: As a spiritual temple, the Church is called to reflect God's holiness, striving for purity and righteousness in both individual and communal life.

- Mission and Witness: The Church, as the embodiment of Christ's presence, is tasked with bearing witness to the gospel, serving as a beacon of hope and truth in the world.

In conclusion, the Temple of Christ, the Head of the Ekklesia, is a rich biblical metaphor that encapsulates the identity, purpose, and mission of the Church. It calls believers to unity, holiness, and active participation in the life and mission of the body of Christ.

Nave's Topical Index

Ephesians 1:22,23
And has put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,
Nave's Topical Index

Colossians 1:18,24
And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
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