Ask Doc: Why must Christians beware of the Third Temple teaching? - Julia
FIVE-POINT BUILDER
1) John 2:19 (KJV): “Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” — Christ speaks of His body as the true temple, not a physical building.
2) Hebrews 9:11 (KJV): “But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come...” — Christ is our eternal high priest, mediating once for all, replacing the old earthly temple system.
3) Ephesians 2:19-22 (KJV): “...Ye are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord” — The Church is described as the spiritual temple.
4) Matthew 24:15-16 (KJV): Jesus warns of the abomination of desolation in the temple, a prophecy about end times but cautioning clear discernment.
5) 1 Corinthians 3:16 (KJV): “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God...” — The believer’s body is God’s temple, affirming a spiritual rather than physical temple focus.
WORD STUDY
Templon (Greek; templon): temple, a sacred place of God’s presence. The New Testament redefines this as the body of Christ and the community of believers rather than a stone building.
INSIGHT
The teaching of a physical Third Temple to be rebuilt before Christ’s return may seem to align with biblical prophecy superficially. Yet Scripture reveals that the true temple is not a building but Jesus Christ and His church, the living body of believers indwelt by the Holy Spirit. To fix our hope on a physical temple confuses the fullness of Christ’s redemptive work, undermining the Apostles’ Creed confession that Jesus is “he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty.” The coming of the Messiah fulfilled the Old Testament temple system once and for all, superseding the need for another physical temple. We must guard against teachings that shift our faith from Christ to earthly structures.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION
- Ground your faith daily in the person and work of Jesus Christ, not earthly signs.
- Study the New Testament temple imagery to understand the spiritual nature of God’s dwelling.
- Pray for wisdom to discern teachings and avoid those that contradict Scripture.
- Encourage your church community to focus on Christ-centered worship and mission.
- Remember the hope of Christ’s return should motivate holiness, not speculation on buildings.
CLOSING PRAYER
Father God, help me to fix my eyes on Jesus, the true Temple and cornerstone of my faith. Shield me from teachings that lead away from Your Word and the hope of salvation in Christ alone. Empower me by Your Spirit to live as Your holy temple daily, reflecting Your glory on earth. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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Dr. Raymond Burkhart (Doc Burkhart) is a Christian pastor, missionary, and Bible teacher recognized for his work in preaching, discipleship, and Gospel broadcasting. With experience in local church leadership, international missions, and Christian media outreach, he proclaims the authority of the Scripture and the lordship of Jesus Christ. His teaching emphasizes Biblical doctrine, spiritual formation, and the call to live out Christian faith in daily life. Through preaching, writing, radio, and broadcast ministry, he shares the message of salvation, encouraging believers to grow in holiness, obedience, and Spirit-led living. His mission combines pastoral care, evangelism, and global outreach, highlighting the transforming power of the gospel for individuals, families, churches, and nations.
