1 Corinthians 3:16-18, The Temple of God Is Holy

1 Corinthians 3:16-18  Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. 118 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.

The Apostle Paul speaks of the body of Christ, the household of God, the saints as the temple of God in Ephesians 2:19-22 too. Each person individually as together as a building wherein God dwells, built upon Jesus Christ as the foundation.

Ephesians 2:19-22 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

The emphasis in our text is in maintaining the holiness of God’s body or building. The word “corrupt” means to corrupt, destroy, waste, damage. He speaks of the corrupting influence of the world creeping into the church. And issues two commands for the believers to know the truth well so that they may not be deceived and be careful not to allow human wisdom to be elevated above God’s Word. It will corrupt God’s temple.

May His people be vigilant to keep themselves pure for His honour. Amen.