The Church as God's Temple

In today s multi-faith society faith traditions
can t be taken for granted so a definition of terms
is necessary for dialogue both within and between
groups. The concept of church is common in the
New Testament but what exactly does it mean? The
Bible, in part, uses metaphors to describe church ,
one of which is temple of God . However, modern
society is unfamiliar with the concept of temple
and so its meaning and impact is lost. This book
analyses a selection of the writings of the Apostle
Paul who uses this particular metaphor to instruct
believers. Five passages are analyzed with regard
to such matters as the indwelling of believers by
the Holy Spirit, cleansing of sin, oneness with
Christ, idolatry and separation from evil. Paul s
Jewish background provides the foundation for his
beliefs and so the analysis includes an examination
of Old Testament passages which comment on the
tabernacle/temple of the ancient Hebrews. This
analysis should enhance understanding of the
biblical concept of church and will be useful for
Christians wanting to broaden their view of what it
means to follow Christ.

Autorentext

Amy Beange, MA: Biblical Studies at Providence Theological
Seminary.

Klappentext

In today's multi-faith society faith traditions
can't be taken for granted so a definition of terms
is necessary for dialogue both within and between
groups. The concept of "church" is common in the
New Testament but what exactly does it mean? The
Bible, in part, uses metaphors to describe "church",
one of which is "temple of God". However, modern
society is unfamiliar with the concept of "temple"
and so its meaning and impact is lost. This book
analyses a selection of the writings of the Apostle
Paul who uses this particular metaphor to instruct
believers. Five passages are analyzed with regard
to such matters as the indwelling of believers by
the Holy Spirit, cleansing of sin, oneness with
Christ, idolatry and separation from evil. Paul's
Jewish background provides the foundation for his
beliefs and so the analysis includes an examination
of Old Testament passages which comment on the
tabernacle/temple of the ancient Hebrews. This
analysis should enhance understanding of the
biblical concept of "church" and will be useful for
Christians wanting to broaden their view of what it
means to follow Christ.