1 Corinthians 3:17

If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him; for God's temple is holy, and you are that temple.

Study Bible

If anyone destroys
The Greek word for "destroys" is "φθείρει" (phtheirei), which implies corruption, defilement, or ruin. In the context of the Corinthian church, this destruction can be understood as any action that harms the unity and purity of the church body. Historically, the early church faced numerous challenges, including false teachings and internal divisions. This phrase serves as a stern warning against actions that would lead to spiritual decay or division within the community of believers.

God’s temple
The term "temple" in Greek is "ναός" (naos), referring to the inner sanctuary, the most sacred part of the temple where God's presence dwells. In the New Testament context, this signifies the collective body of believers, the church, as the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. Archaeologically, the temple in Jerusalem was the center of Jewish worship, symbolizing God's presence among His people. Paul uses this imagery to emphasize the sanctity and importance of the church as God's dwelling place on earth.

God will destroy him
The repetition of the word "destroy" underscores the seriousness of the warning. The Greek verb "φθείρει" (phtheirei) is used again, indicating a divine retribution for those who harm the church. This reflects the biblical principle of divine justice, where God protects His people and holds accountable those who cause harm. Historically, this can be seen as a reassurance to the early Christians that God is actively involved in preserving the integrity of His church.

for God’s temple is holy
The word "holy" in Greek is "ἅγιος" (hagios), meaning set apart, sacred, or consecrated. This highlights the distinctiveness and purity expected of the church. In the Old Testament, holiness was a key attribute of God and His dwelling place, requiring those who approached Him to be consecrated. Paul applies this concept to the church, emphasizing that as God's temple, it must remain pure and undefiled.

and you are that temple
The pronoun "you" is plural in Greek, indicating that Paul is addressing the entire community of believers in Corinth. This collective identity as God's temple underscores the unity and interdependence of the church members. Scripturally, this aligns with the New Testament teaching that believers, both individually and corporately, are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. This profound truth serves as both an encouragement and a call to live in a manner worthy of this divine indwelling, fostering unity and holiness within the church.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth with authority and pastoral concern.

2. The Church in Corinth
A diverse and often divided early Christian community facing issues of immorality, division, and misunderstanding of spiritual truths.

3. God’s Temple
Refers to the collective body of believers, emphasizing the sacredness and unity of the church as the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit.

Teaching Points

The Sacredness of the Church
The church is not just a gathering of individuals but a holy temple where God dwells. This understanding should foster a deep respect and reverence for the community of believers.

The Call to Holiness
As God’s temple, believers are called to live lives that reflect God’s holiness. This involves both personal purity and communal integrity.

The Seriousness of Division and Destruction
Causing division or harm within the church is a grave matter. Believers should strive for unity and peace, recognizing the severe consequences of destroying God’s temple.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The presence of the Holy Spirit in the church and in individual believers empowers them to live holy lives and maintain the sanctity of God’s temple.

Accountability and Stewardship
Believers are stewards of God’s temple, responsible for nurturing and protecting the spiritual health of the church community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the church as God’s temple change the way you view your role within your local church community?

2. In what ways can you contribute to the unity and holiness of your church, avoiding actions that might "destroy" God’s temple?

3. Reflect on your personal life: How are you honoring God as His temple, and what changes might be necessary to align more closely with this calling?

4. How does the concept of being God’s temple influence your interactions with other believers and your approach to resolving conflicts?

5. Considering the connection to other scriptures, how does the idea of the church as a temple inform your understanding of the church’s mission in the world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Corinthians 6:19-20
This passage reinforces the idea that believers' bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing personal holiness and the need to honor God with our bodies.

Ephesians 2:21-22
Describes the church as a holy temple in the Lord, built together as a dwelling place for God by the Spirit, highlighting the communal aspect of being God's temple.

2 Corinthians 6:16
Stresses the incompatibility of believers with idolatry, as they are the temple of the living God, underscoring the call to holiness and separation from sin.