The Invitation

So, how exactly do we invite God into our lives?

Let’s explore –

The original relationship between Adam and God existed without barrier.  There was no wall of separation – no fence, or gate, or distance.  They enjoyed engagement.  Communion, if you will.

But after the fall, there was a disconnect which resulted in the dwelling place of God being between two cherubim seated on the Arc of the Covenant.  It was later located in the Holy of Holies in the middle of the Temple.  The dwelling place of God was separated from man.  How tragic. 

In all four Gospels, the cleansing of the Temple is recorded, but my favorite is John 2:13-16. 

 

Now, follow me. 

·          According to 1 Corinthians 3:16 and 6:19 the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. 

·         Before the restoration of the individual relationship between God and man could occur, Jesus cleansed the Temple.  (John 2:13-16)

·         And Hebrews tells us that we are to lay aside the sin that so easily entangles us (Hebrews 12:1) and make straight paths for your feet (v.13)

·         Directly after mentioning that the body is the Temple of God, 1 Corinthians 3:17 states that it’s to be holy.

For the Spirit of God to enter our lives, we must invite Him.  Then, when He cleanses the temple (forgives us of our sins and cleanses us from unrighteousness-1 John 1:9) we must diligently pursue…

a.       This means enjoying and actively engaging in relationship with Him, and (Hebrews 12:1, Matthew 22:37, Revelation 3:20)

b.      Keeping the place a holy sanctuary for Him (1 Corinthians 3:17, 1 Thessalonians 3:13, Ephesians 4:24, Hebrews 12:10).