Scriptures to Read and Ponder

• Exodus 40:34–35 – God’s glory fills the tabernacle.

• 1 Corinthians 3:16 – Believers as God’s temple filled with the Spirit.

• Acts 1:8 – Empowered by the Holy Spirit for witness.

• Acts 4:29–31 – Boldness through the Holy Spirit.

• 1 Peter 2:4–5 – Believers as living stones and a holy priesthood.

• Ephesians 5:18–20 – Living as Spirit-filled children of light.

• John 20:21–22 – Sent by Jesus with the Holy Spirit.

• Matthew 28:18–20 – The Great Commission.

• Luke 4:18–19 – Jesus’ mission to proclaim freedom, healing, and hope.

Sermon Recap

Introduction

• The Israelites were led out of slavery by Moses, accompanied by God’s presence in a cloud and fire (Exodus 13:21–22).

• God’s glory filled the tabernacle and temple, symbolizing His dwelling among His people (Exodus 40:34–35; 2 Chronicles 7:1–3).

God’s New Temple

• In the New Testament, the temple is no longer a building but God’s people, individually and collectively (1 Corinthians 3:16).

• Believers are “living stones” built into a spiritual house, hosting God’s presence (1 Peter 2:4–5).

Filled with God’s Glory

• Just as the tabernacle and temple were filled with God’s glory, believers are filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1–4).

• The Holy Spirit empowers believers to witness boldly and live transformed lives (Acts 1:8).

Living as Children of Light

• Believers are called to live as children of light, reflecting God’s love and righteousness in the world (Ephesians 5:8).

• This involves being Spirit-filled, singing psalms and hymns, and living in gratitude (Ephesians 5:18–20).

Sent on Mission

• Jesus sends His followers as Spirit-filled missionaries to proclaim good news, freedom, and healing (John 20:21–22; Luke 4:18–19).

• The Great Commission calls believers to make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey Jesus’ commands (Matthew 28:18–20).

Call to Action

• Commit to being filled with the Spirit daily.

• Love extravagantly, serve selflessly, and speak boldly.

• Be God’s light in your family, workplace, and community.

Memorable Quotes

• “Those in whom the Spirit comes to live are God’s new Temple. They are, individually and corporately, places where heaven and earth meet.” – N.T. Wright

• “The temple is not a building—it’s God’s people filled with His presence.”

• “God’s glory doesn’t dwell in bricks and stones but in the hearts of His children.”

Questions for Discussion

1. What does it mean to you personally that you are a “living temple” of God?

2. How can you live as a “child of light” in your daily life? (Ephesians 5:8)

3. How does being filled with the Holy Spirit transform our witness and actions?

4. What steps can you take to embrace your role in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20)?

5. Reflect on the quote from N.T. Wright—how does it inspire you to live as a place where “heaven and earth meet”?

Further Reading

• Exodus 13:21–22 – God’s presence guiding His people.

• Psalm 119:105 – God’s Word as a lamp to our feet.

• Romans 12:1–2 – Living as living sacrifices.

• Hebrews 12:28–29 – Worshiping God with reverence and awe.

• Books: The Temple and the Church’s Mission by G.K. Beale, Simply Christian by N.T. Wright.

Prayer Points

1. Thanksgiving: Praise God for making His dwelling among His people and for filling His Church with His Spirit.

2. Filling of the Spirit: Pray for a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit to live boldly and proclaim the Gospel.

3. Mission: Ask for courage and wisdom to live as Spirit-filled missionaries in your community.

4. Transformation: Pray that your life reflects the light and love of Christ in all you do.

5. Unity in the Body: Pray for the Church to live as one body, shining brightly for the Kingdom.