Temple of the Holy Spirit

2021-07-16

Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. (John 16:7)

Jesus told His disciples of this Comforter, the Holy Spirit, shortly before His Passion. Once He was to ascend to be with the Father, He would send the Holy Spirit to be with us. Today, the Holy Spirit indwells every believer (Romans 8:9). The Old Testament saints rarely had this gift; mainly kings and prophets had the Holy Spirit.

We do not really know or appreciate what we have.

The Holy Spirit is a living Person. Though distinct from the Father and the Son, He is completely God. This is one concrete way that Jesus is “God with us” (Emmanuel) and promised us that He would always be with us. The church has become the Holy Spirit’s temple (1 Corinthians 3:16-17), and our bodies are also considered His temple (1 Corinthians 6:19). This is the true power of God that dwells within us.

If we knew or remembered this truth day to day and hour to hour, it would elicit real change. He is literally within us. Our constant joking would change to solemnity. Our carelessness would change to the fear of the Lord. Our pride would change to humility. Our timidity would change to boldness in spiritual matters. The glory of the world would be exchanged for the glory of God.