Temples of the Most High

The Hagia Sophia (Church of the Holy or Divine Wisdom) is a world-renowned monument built during the Byzantine Empire. It’s had quite a history! It was built as a church, later became a mosque, and now is a museum. Since its use and purpose have been subject to the will of prevailing powers, the church built to honor God’s wisdom now serves as a tourist attraction. Fortunately, “the Most High doesn’t dwell in temples made with hands” (Acts 7:48). Instead, as Christians, our bodies form the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). As God’s temples through Christ, our identity is in Him. Therefore, we are free. Free from being “brought under the power of anything” other than Jesus (1 Corinthians 6:12). While we can momentarily put ourselves under sin’s control when we give in to temptation, because we are joined to God by the Holy Spirit, He gives us the power to say no to every form of sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:13-18). As we strive to honor God with our bodies, the Holy Spirit reminds us of two truths. First, that we are not our own; instead, we “were bought at a price”—the death of Jesus (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Second, that our bodies will be resurrected by Jesus, our risen Savior and King (1 Corinthians 6:13-14). Let’s live in light of this good news—that we have been made free from the power of sin and death! • Remi Oyedele • What truths from today’s reading helped you the most? •How can you personally honor God with your body? What questions do you have about what that would look like? • Who is a trusted Christian in your life you can bring those questions to—such as a pastor, camp counselor, or youth leader? Or don’t you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own. 1 Corinthians 6:19 (WEB)

Read Verses:

1 Corinthians 6:12-20