The Third Jewish Temple or The “Temple” of the Holy Spirit

Plans are continuing to move forward for the rebuilding of the third Jewish temple. According to Bible prophecy it will be erected. Various religions accept the teaching, though for different reasons. The Temple Institute in Jerusalem has completed many implements over the years to be used in sacrificial worship. Priestly garments have been made. The High Priest’s golden crown and breastplate are finished with the 12 precious stones inscribed with the name of the tribes of Israel. In December of 2014, the Altar of Burnt Sacrifice was completed, constructed out of bricks.

Architectural plans are being drawn up and money is being raised. The questions remains as to exactly where the temple would be built. Could it be put on the Temple Mount where the Dome of the Rock is situated? This has serious political problems. Bible prophecy expert, Hal Lindsey, has pointed out that Revelation 11:1-2 gives the answer. According to these verses, the outer court would be left out because “it has been given to the nations.” There would, therefore, be room to build it alongside the Dome of the Rock. All of the controversy is meaningless. God already has had it worked out. His plan is way ahead of man’s wisdom to try to figure things out.

All of what has been done is in preparation for a physical temple so the Jews can once again have a place of sacrificial worship. They have failed to recognize, however, that Jesus is the ultimate sacrifice, once and for all (Hebrews 7:26-27), and that the Most High (Jesus), “does not dwell in houses made by human hands” (Acts 7:48).

Wherever the physical temple is built, there is a different “temple” in which the Holy Spirit of God dwells. I Corinthians 6:19-20 asks, “Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit?…” When the Jews come to recognize Jesus as their Messiah, the Holy Spirt will live within their hearts. When people, both Jews and Gentiles, accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior, they become the temple of the Holy Spirit. Jesus can dwell in your heart this very moment. You don’t have to wait for a physical building to be erected. The physical temple is all about ritual; the Holy Spirit living within your heart is about having a personal relationship with God. Which would you rather have? God’s plan for you is not a building. His plan is for you to experience His love and grace at work in your life.