1 Corinthians 3:16 – What’s Inside?

“Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16)

Don’t you know what’s inside your body? Paul’s question might take us by surprise. Initially, we think of what’s tangible, like our heart, lungs, and other body organs. Where does the Spirit of God fit in?

Context (1 Corinthians 3:10-17): Paul counseled the Corinthian believers to understand more about faith and the role of the Holy Spirit. The foundation Paul talks of is Jesus, and our faith begins with him. Paul wanted his audience to be prepared for judgment day by not putting our trust in the wrong building materials. By reminding us we are the temple of God with the Spirit of God dwelling inside us, Paul wanted to empower us.

This isn’t the only time in Scripture where we’re told God’s Spirit lives inside us. Jesus promised that he would send us a helper so that we would not be alone to face the trials and challenges of life. In John 14:15-16, Jesus says, “If you love me, obey my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you.” The Spirit’s empowerment and guidance help us navigate faith questions and complete our mission to make disciples.

Romans 8:11 says, “The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.”

Colossians 1:27 says, “For God wanted them to know that the riches and glory of Christ are for you Gentiles, too. And this is the secret: Christ lives in you. This gives you assurance of sharing his glory.”

What comes to mind for you when you think of a temple? Perhaps a grand building or a physical location. That isn’t the kind of temple Paul is referring to. A temple is a holy place filled with God’s presence. If we are all filled with God’s Spirit, when we come together, we are that holy place.

Paul says, “together” we are the temple. We aren’t necessarily all individual temples walking around. What comes to mind for me is another metaphor that as believers, we are all part of the “Body of Christ.” Together, using our God-given gifts and talents, we work together to complete Jesus’ work here on earth.

If you are feeling weak or unsure of something right now, lean into this verse and ask for the Spirit to refresh you. If you are feeling unstoppable, thank God for His Spirit living inside, moving you into action. In any event, we are all part of God’s temple when the Spirit resides in us, and we can look forward to sharing in the glory of Christ.

Let’s pray. Father God, I am so grateful and honored to be filled with your Spirit. I can’t imagine living any other way. Forgive me for times I may take you for granted or fail to check in with your counsel before plunging into some new project or situation. Your wisdom is perfect for all circumstances. In Jesus’ name. Amen.