A Temple bought with a Price

The concept of believers’ bodies being temples of the Holy Spirit and being filled with the Spirit as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross and through faith is indeed a central theme in Christianity.

In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Paul emphasizes the significance of the believer’s body as a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit. He reminds Christians that they have been bought with a price – the blood of Jesus shed on the cross. Therefore, they are not their own masters but belong to God.

Jesus’ promise in John 7:37-39 further expands on this idea. On the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles, Jesus stood and invited all who were thirsty to come to Him and drink. By believing in Him, Jesus promised that rivers of living water would flow from within them. This living water represents the Holy Spirit, whom believers would receive after Jesus’ glorification.

Now, when Jesus refers to Scripture in this passage, He is likely alluding to various Old Testament prophecies that speak of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. One such passage is Ezekiel 47:1-12, where Ezekiel sees a vision of water flowing from the temple, bringing life and abundance wherever it goes. This imagery symbolizes the spiritual renewal and transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit.

So, when we put these passages together, we see a beautiful picture of how believers become temples of the Holy Spirit through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Through faith in Him, we are filled and overflowing with the Holy Spirit, experiencing His presence, power, and guidance in our lives. Just as the water from Ezekiel’s vision brought life and healing, the Holy Spirit brings spiritual vitality and renewal to those who believe in Jesus.

As the river of living water flows out of believers, it brings life, nourishment, and blessings to the world around them.