We are the Temple of God: The Priesthood of Believers

We are the Temple of God: The Priesthood of Believers

October 12

The Bible emphasizes our role as kings and priests for those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior (Revelation 1:6). In this discussion, we'll delve deeper into our priestly role and its significance, drawing parallels with the Old Testament practices. In the Old Testament, the Ark of the Covenant held a central place in the temple, encompassing three vital items: the Law, symbolized by the tablets given to Moses (Exodus 25:16); Aaron’s rod, possibly representing authority (Numbers 17:10); and manna, the heavenly sustenance provided during their desert sojourn (Exodus 16:32-34). Only the consecrated priests had the privilege to access the temple and perform sacred duties (Leviticus 8:1-2). The New Testament brings a profound transformation. Jesus, our High Priest, is introduced (Hebrews 4:14-16). His sacrifice not only atones for our sins but also breaks the partition separating the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies. This monumental event occurs at the moment of His crucifixion when the temple's veil is dramatically torn (Matthew 27:51). This act graciously ushers us into direct access to God's presence (Hebrews 10:19-20). This newfound access allows us to step into the role of priests ourselves, a concept vividly expressed in 1 Peter 2:9: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." When we invite Jesus into our hearts, we become the living temples of God (1 Corinthians 6:19). This transformation enables us to have an intimate and continuous relationship with God. We share in the Word of God, represented by the tablets, as Jesus, the Word made flesh, resides within us (John 1:14). We receive authority, akin to Aaron’s staff, symbolizing spiritual power on earth and the privilege to access heavenly realms (Matthew 16:19). The manna, signifying daily sustenance, finds its fulfillment in Jesus, the Bread of Life (John 6:35). Through our relationship with Him, we partake in the spiritual nourishment necessary for our daily lives. As priests, we are empowered to enter the Most Holy Place, where we commune with the heart of God, Jesus Himself. This privileged access is not limited by time or place. Through the indwelling presence of Jesus and the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:18), we maintain an ongoing connection. We can boldly approach the throne of grace and actively participate in advancing God's kingdom on Earth (Hebrews 4:16). Our role as priests is not passive; we are called to be co-workers with God (1 Corinthians 3:9). To fully realize our purpose, we must engage with the Word, engage in intimate times of prayer and worship, and grasp our place in the five-fold ministry (Ephesians 4:11-13). The Holy Spirit equips us and progressively transforms us into vessels for God's work (2 Corinthians 3:18). Drawing near to God, we connect the dots in His Word, aligning our hearts with His will. This empowers us to bring heavenly influence into earthly circumstances. This concept is exemplified by Jesus, who referred to Himself as the temple and, through His resurrection, demonstrated the temple's restoration. Individually and collectively, as the Church, we serve as God's temples on Earth (1 Corinthians 3:16). Jesus, by breaking the division, grants us the profound privilege of serving God in the most intimate setting. As priests, we enter the throne room of grace within our hearts, fulfilling our ordained role as the temple of God. In conclusion, as priests in the New Testament, we have been granted a remarkable opportunity to intimately and continually access the presence of God through the indwelling of Jesus and the Holy Spirit. This access empowers us to actively advance God's kingdom on Earth, fulfilling our divine calling as royal priests in God's plan.