Ascending to New Heights in Christ

February 21, 2025

We are temples of the Holy Spirit, dwelling places of God.

God’s unwavering love and presence offer solace and strength. He reminds us that we are never truly alone, and His promises remain steadfast, offering a beacon of hope in the darkest of times. This meditation explores the transformative power of Jesus Christ, demonstrating how we can access divine strength and live victoriously.

The Reconciling Power of Christ

Colossians 1:19-20: "For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven."

Through Jesus Christ, the fullness of God dwells among us, bridging the gap between humanity and divinity. Before Christ's sacrifice, sin created a chasm, separating us from God's holy presence. But through His death on the cross, Jesus atoned for our sins, reconciling us to the Father. This reconciliation is not just a spiritual concept; it's a tangible reality that transforms our lives. It means that we are no longer alienated from God but brought into intimate fellowship with Him. This reconciliation extends beyond just our relationship with God; it also impacts our relationships with others and even our relationship with ourselves. It brings wholeness and healing to every aspect of our being. The peace that Christ established through His blood is not a superficial tranquility; it is a deep-seated assurance of God's love and acceptance, a peace that transcends understanding.

Hebrews 12:24: "And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel."

The blood of Abel, shed by his brother Cain in an act of jealousy and rage, cried out for justice and vengeance. It represented the brokenness of humanity, the consequences of sin, and the separation between God and man. However, the blood of Jesus, shed willingly on the cross, speaks a far different message. It speaks of forgiveness, mercy, and redemption. It ushers in a new covenant, a new era of grace and reconciliation. While Abel's blood cried out for retribution, Jesus' blood cries out for restoration. It offers us cleansing from sin, healing for our wounds, and the promise of eternal life. This "better word" is a message of hope and transformation, inviting us to enter into a relationship with God based on love and grace, not condemnation.

The Temple Within: God's Dwelling Place

1 Corinthians 3:16: "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?"

We are not merely physical beings; we are spiritual beings housed in earthly bodies. And more than that, we are temples of the Living God. The Holy Spirit, the very presence of God, resides within each believer, making us sacred dwelling places of the Divine. This is not a metaphor; it is a spiritual reality. Just as the ancient Israelites revered the Temple in Jerusalem as the dwelling place of God, we are now called to recognize the sacredness of our own bodies. This understanding transforms how we view ourselves and how we live our lives. It empowers us to resist sin, embrace holiness, and walk in the power of the Spirit. Knowing that we carry God's presence within us should fill us with awe and reverence, inspiring us to live lives worthy of the calling we have received.

1 Corinthians 6:17: "But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit."

1 Corinthians 6:19: "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?"

Through faith in Jesus Christ, we are joined to the Lord, becoming one spirit with Him. This union is not merely symbolic; it is a profound spiritual reality that changes everything. We are no longer separate individuals striving to reach God; we are intimately connected to Him, sharing in His life and power. This connection has profound implications for how we live. Because we are united with Christ, we are no longer our own. We have been bought with a price – the precious blood of Jesus – and we now belong to Him. This ownership is not restrictive but liberating. It frees us from the bondage of sin and empowers us to live for God's glory. It gives us a new identity, a new purpose, and a new hope. We are now children of God, heirs of His kingdom, and temples of His Holy Spirit. This realization should transform every aspect of our lives, from our thoughts and actions to our relationships and priorities.

Conclusion

We are temples of the Holy Spirit, united with God through the blood of Jesus. This knowledge empowers us to live with confidence, peace, and unwavering faith, knowing that we are never alone.

Reflect on This:

• How can you strengthen your awareness of the Holy Spirit's presence within you?

• How can you practically apply the authority you have in Christ to overcome daily challenges?

  
  

Prayer:

Father God, I thank you for the gift of your son, Jesus Christ, who reconciled me to you. I acknowledge that I am your temple, filled with the Holy Spirit. I declare healing, peace, and strength over my life, knowing that I am connected to you and empowered by your grace. I walk in the authority of Christ, overcoming every obstacle in His name. Amen.

Key Takeaways:

• We are connected to God through Jesus Christ.

• The blood of Jesus speaks forgiveness and establishes peace.

• We are temples of the Holy Spirit, dwelling places of God.

• We have authority in Christ to overcome challenges.

• Our connection with God empowers us to live victoriously.

All content on this blog is the property of Henley Samuel Ministries. For permissions or inquiries regarding the use of any material, please contact us at contact@henleysamuel.org.

To dive deeper into this powerful message, watch the full sermon on our YouTube video below.