The concept of participating in building the spiritual temple is deeply rooted in the New Testament teachings and is a significant theme in Christian theology. This idea is primarily derived from the understanding that believers collectively form the body of Christ, which is often referred to as a spiritual temple. This entry explores the biblical basis for this concept, its theological implications, and the role of believers in this divine construction.

Biblical Foundation

The notion of a spiritual temple is prominently featured in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 , Paul writes, "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." Here, Paul emphasizes that the community of believers is collectively the temple of God, indwelt by the Holy Spirit.

Similarly, in Ephesians 2:19-22 , Paul elaborates on this imagery: "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone. 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." This passage highlights the unity and growth of the church as a spiritual edifice, with Christ as the cornerstone.

Theological Implications

The spiritual temple metaphor underscores the sanctity and unity of the church. It conveys the idea that the church is not merely a human institution but a divine construction, where each believer plays a vital role. The presence of the Holy Spirit within this temple signifies God's intimate relationship with His people and His active involvement in their lives.

Moreover, the concept of the spiritual temple reflects the transition from the Old Covenant, where God's presence was associated with a physical temple, to the New Covenant, where His presence dwells within the community of believers. This shift emphasizes the personal and communal aspects of faith, where each believer is both a living stone and a priest in this spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5).

Role of Believers

Believers are called to actively participate in building the spiritual temple through various means. Firstly, they are to live lives that reflect the holiness and purity befitting the temple of God. As Paul exhorts in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 , "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body."

Secondly, believers contribute to the edification of the church through the exercise of spiritual gifts. In Ephesians 4:11-12 , Paul explains that Christ "gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ." Each member is equipped for service, contributing to the growth and maturity of the church.

Lastly, believers are encouraged to maintain unity and love within the body of Christ. In Colossians 3:14-15 , Paul writes, "And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful." Unity and love are essential for the harmonious construction of the spiritual temple, reflecting the character of Christ to the world.

In summary, participating in building the spiritual temple involves a commitment to holiness, the use of spiritual gifts for the edification of the church, and the pursuit of unity and love among believers. This divine construction is a testament to God's presence and work within His people, as they collectively form a dwelling place for His Spirit.