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QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
Who instituted temple worship?
What is the purpose of temple worship?
For how long did God say that the temple would be a part of the worship among His people?
Does the Bible ever say that temple worship would cease?
What did Jesus teach about the temple?
Was temple worship a part of Christian worship after Jesus’ death and resurrection?
How did temple worship change with Christ’s coming?
Does the Bible speak of temple worship in the last days?
VIEWS TO CONSIDER:
EVANGELICAL VIEW: All forms of temple worship ended after the death of Jesus. The bodies of Christians now act as the “temple” of God since God (the Holy Spirit) dwells in believers. That indwelling replaces all forms of temple worship.
LATTER DAY SAINT VIEW: Various gospel principles are compared to temple worship in scripture (Jesus’ resurrection, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ role as our High Priest etc.), but scripture never says that temple worship is done away with or replaced by any of these. On the contrary, the New Testament shows that while some aspects of temple worship fulfilled or changed after the death of Christ, temple worship continued among Christians in some forms after the and resurrection of Christ and prophesied of it’s existence in the Latter Days as well. Temple worship continues today as a central part of Latter Day Saint worship and it will continue until the end of mankind’s time of this fallen earth.
CONTENTS:
Temple / tabernacle ritual worship was established by God
Purpose: A dwelling place for God on earth (Note: Many of these purposes below are still very much a part of Christian worship today - they are not fulfilled, done away etc.)
Purpose: A place for God’s name
Purpose: Healing
Purpose: Hold sacred things
Purpose: Learn of God’s ways
Purpose: Participate in certain God-commanded ordinances
Purpose: Praise / bless God / Hosanna
Purpose: Prayer
Purpose: Receive God’s law
Purpose: Receive instruction
Purpose: Receive revelation from God
Purpose: Represent good standing with God
Purpose: See God’s beauty
Purpose: Serve God
Purpose: Show God’s glory
Purpose: Symbolize God and Christ
Purpose: Symbolize God’s people / the NT church
Purpose: Symbolize heaven
Purpose: Symbolize our bodies
Purpose: Worship
Forever the Lord’s house
NT changes: Jesus’ sacrifice replaces animal sacrifice
NT changes: Moral law remains in place
NT changes: Priesthood applies to all brethren (not just Levites)
NT changes: Higher level of priesthood
Symbolic ordinances still existed in NT church (non-temple)
Ordinations in the NT
Priesthood / Priests / Presbytery
Jesus is a priest / high priest / has the priesthood
God spoken of as dwelling in temple in NT
Jesus’ divine calling was confirmed at the temple
Jesus taught in the temple as a youth
Jesus cleansed the temple
Jesus calls the temple is his Father’s house
Jesus gave instructions regarding temple rituals / worship
Jesus was often in the temple
The apostles were often in the temple
Jesus is greater than the temple
God is not limited to the temple
God does not dwell in temples (idols)
Post-Christ Christian temple worship in the NT
Temples in NT visions
Temple worship during Millennium / Last days
Potential “no more temple” passages
No temple in God’s presence (in the next life)
Private / Non-public worship / hidden knowledge
Sermon on the Mount: Temple ritual context theory (using Bible only)
Sermon on the Mount: Temple ritual context theory (using Book of Mormon)
TEMPLE / TABERNACLE RITUAL WORSHIP WAS ESTABLISHED BY GOD:
Exo. 25:1-8 And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering… And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.
2 Sam. 7:4-16 And it came to pass that night, that the word of the Lord came unto Nathan, saying, Go and tell my servant David, Thus saith the Lord, Shalt thou build me an house for me to dwell in? Whereas I have not dwelt in any house since the time that I brought up the children of Israel out of Egypt, even to this day, but have walked in a tent and in a tabernacle. In all the places wherein I have walked with all the children of Israel spake I a word with any of the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to feed my people Israel, saying, Why build ye not me an house of cedar?… I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels…. He shall build an house for my name.
PURPOSE: A DWELLING PLACE FOR GOD ON EARTH:
2 Chron. 6:2 I have built an house of habitation for thee, and a place for thy dwelling for ever
2 Sam. 22:7 In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried to my God: and he did hear my voice out of his temple, and my cry did enter into his ears.
Exo. 25:1-8 And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering… And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them
Hab. 2:20 the Lord is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him.
Micah 1:2 Hear, all ye people; hearken, O earth, and all that therein is: and let the Lord God be witness against you, the Lord from his holy temple.
PURPOSE: A PLACE FOR GOD’S NAME:
1 Kings 9:3 And the Lord said unto him: I have heard thy prayer… I have hallowed this house (temple), which thou hast built to put my name there for ever; and my eyes and my heart shall be there perpetually
PURPOSE: LEARN OF GOD’S WAYS:
Isaiah 2:2-3 Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, and he will teach us of his ways… out of Zion shall go forth his law
PURPOSE: HEALING:
Acts 3:1 And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple
Matt. 21:14 And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them.
PURPOSE: HOLD SACRED THINGS:
ARK OF THE COVENANT: 1 Chron. 6:31 These are they whom David set over the service of song in the house of the Lord, after that the ark had rest.
1 Kings 6:9 And the oracle he prepared in the house within, to set there the ark of the covenant of the Lord.
Exo. 40:21 And he brought the ark into the tabernacle, and set up the veil of the covering, and covered the ark of the testimony; as the Lord commanded Moses.
Rev. 11:19 And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament
HOLY VESSELS: 2 Chron. 5:5 And they brought up the ark, and the tabernacle of the congregation, and all the holy vessels that were in the tabernacle, these did the priests and the Levites bring up,
HOLY THINGS: Ezek. 44:3 They shall not come near unto me, to do the office of a priest unto me, nor to come near to any of my holy things, in the most holy place
AARON’S STAFF/ROD: Numbers 17:8 Moses went into the tabernacle of witness; and, behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi was budded, and brought forth buds, and bloomed blossoms, and yielded almonds.
JAR OF MANNA: Exo. 16:33 And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a pot, and put an omer full of manna therein, and lay it up before the Lord, to be kept for your generations
BOOK OF THE LAW: Deut. 31:26 Take this book of the law, and put it in the side of the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, that it may be there for a witness against thee.
CHERUBIM STATUES: 1 Kings 6:23 And within the oracle he made two cherubims of olive tree, each ten cubits high.
PURPOSE: PARTICIPATE IN CERTAIN GOD-COMMANDED ORDINANCES:
2 Cor. 2:4 Behold, I build an house to the name of the Lord my God, to dedicate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the Lord our God. This is an ordinance for ever to Israel.
Ezek. 44:5 And the Lord said unto me, Son of man, mark well, and behold with thine eyes, and hear with thine ears all that I say unto thee concerning all the ordinances of the house of the Lord, and all the laws thereof; and mark well the entering in of the house, with every going forth of the sanctuary.
Lev. 1:3 Let him offer a male without blemish: he shall offer it of his own voluntary will at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation before the Lord
Lev. 17:5 To the end that the children of Israel may bring their sacrifices, which they offer in the open field, even that they may bring them unto the Lord, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, unto the priest, and offer them for peace offerings unto the Lord.
PURPOSE: PRAISE / BLESS GOD / HOSANNA:
2 Cor. 2:4 Behold, I build an house to the name of the Lord my God, to dedicate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the Lord our God. This is an ordinance for ever to Israel.
Acts 3:8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.
Ezra 3:10 And when the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the Lord, they set the priests in their apparel with trumpets, and the Levites the sons of Asaph with cymbals, to praise the Lord, after the ordinance of David king of Israel.
Luke 24:52-53 Continually in the temple, praising and blessing God
Matt. 21:15-16 And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased, And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?
Ps. 27:6 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord
Ps 48:9 We have thought of thy lovingkindness, O God, in the midst of thy temple
PURPOSE: PRAYER:
Acts 3:1 Acts 21:26 Then Paul took the men (believers) and the next day purifying himself with them, entered into the temple,, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification
Acts 22:12 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me. And I said, Lord, they know that I… And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.
Jonah 2:7 When my soul fainted within me I remembered the Lord: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple
Luke 2:36-39 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.
Matt. 21:12-13 And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves. And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieve
Psalms 27:4 One thing have I desired of the Lord… that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life… to inquire in his temple
PURPOSE: RECEIVE GOD’S LAW:
Ezek. 44:5 And the Lord said unto me, Son of man, mark well, and behold with thine eyes, and hear with thine ears all that I say unto thee concerning all the ordinances of the house of the Lord, and all the laws thereof; and mark well the entering in of the house, with every going forth of the sanctuary.
Isaiah 2:2-3 Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, and he will teach us of his ways… out of Zion shall go forth his law
PURPOSE: RECEIVE INSTRUCTION:
Acts 5:20 Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.
Isaiah 2:2-3 Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, and he will teach us of his ways
John 8:2 And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them.
PURPOSE: RECEIVE REVELATION FROM GOD:
Acts 22:12 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me. And I said, Lord, they know that I… And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.
Isa. 66:6 A voice of noise from the city, a voice from the temple, a voice of the Lord that rendereth recompence to his enemies.
Luke 1:21-22 And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple. And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.
Psalms 27:4 One thing have I desired of the Lord… that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life… to inquire in his temple
PURPOSE: REPRESENTS GOOD STANDING WITH GOD:
Johah 2:4 I am cast out of thy sight; yet I will look again toward thy holy temple.
PURPOSE: SEE GOD’S BEAUTY:
Psalms 27:4 One thing have I desired of the Lord… that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord
PURPOSE: SERVE GOD:
Luke 2:36-39 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.
Rev. 7:14-15 Serve him day and night in his temple
PURPOSE: SHOW GOD’S GLORY:
Ps. 29:9 The voice of the Lord maketh the hinds to calve, and discovereth the forests: and in his temple doth every one speak of his glory.
PURPOSE: SYMBOLIZE GOD AND CHRIST:
Matt. 24:1-2 And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple. And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
Jer. 51:11 Make bright the arrows; gather the shields: the Lord hath raised up the spirit of the kings of the Medes: for his device is against Babylon, to destroy it; because it is the vengeance of the Lord, the vengeance of his temple.
Rev. 21:10-22 And shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,… and I saw no temple therein, for the Lord God almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it
PURPOSE: SYMBOLIZE GOD’S PEOPLE & THE NT CHURCH:
Eph. 2:20-22 [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: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Rev. 3:12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.
Zech. 6:12 Behold the man whose name is The Branch; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the Lord:
PURPOSE: SYMBOLIZE HEAVEN:
Ps. 65:3-4 Iniquities prevail against me: as for our transgressions, thou shalt purge them away. Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, even of thy holy temple.
PURPOSE: SYMBOLIZE OUR BODIES (and visa versa):
John 2:19-21 Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? But he spake of the temple of his body
1 Cor. 6:19 Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God
1 Cor. 3:16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy, for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.
PURPOSE: WORSHIP THE LORD
Ps. 5:7 As for me, I will come into thy house in the multitude of thy mercy: and in thy fear will I worship toward thy holy temple
Ps. 138:2 I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy loving kindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.
FOREVER THE LORD’S HOUSE:
1 Kings 9:3 And the Lord said unto him: I have heard thy prayer… I have hallowed this house (temple), which thou hast built to put my name there for ever; and my eyes and my heart shall be there perpetually
2 Chron. 7:16 For now have I chosen and sanctified this house, that my name may be there for ever: and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually
2 Chron. 6:2 I have built an house of habitation for thee, and a place for thy dwelling for ever
NT CHANGES: JESUS’ SACRIFICE REPLACES ANIMAL SACRIFICE
1 Cor. 5:7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us
Col.2:16-17 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
Eph. 5:2 Walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor
Heb. 7:27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people’s: for this he did once, when he offered up himself
Heb. 9:9 Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;
Heb. 9:26 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.
Heb. 10:11-21 Every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God… their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh, And having an high priest over the house of God
NT CHANGES: MORAL LAW REMAINS IN PLACE
Acts 21:25 As touching the Gentiles which believe… that they observe no such thing (circumcision/the Law of Moses), save only that they keep themselves from the things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication.
NT CHANGES: PRIESTHOOD APPLIED TO ALL BRETHREN (NOT JUST LEVITES)
1 Peter 2:5, 9 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ… But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. Note: 1 Peter 1:22 and 1 Peter 3:8 show that Peter is specifically speaking to the “brethren” (the men) of the church.
NT CHANGES: HIGHER LEVEL OF PRIESTHOOD
Heb. 7:11-12 If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron? For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law. For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar. For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood. And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest, Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life. For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
SYMBOLIC ORDINANCES IN NT CHURCH (NON-TEMPLE):
BAPTISM: Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (see also Acts 2:41, Acts 8:12-38 etc.)
LORD’S SUPPER: Matt. 26:26-28 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins
ANNOINTING FOR HEALING: James 5:14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord (see also Mark 6:13)
ORDINATIONS IN THE NT CHURCH: Note: “Ordinations” are clearly connected with the priesthood in the OT, and the priesthood is connected with temple worship and ordinances.
1 Timothy 2:7 Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity
Acts 1:22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection
Acts. 14:23 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed
Acts 16:4 [In many cities, there were men who] were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem
John 15:16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit
Mark 3:14 And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach
Titus 1:1-5 (Paul to Titus) For this cause have I left thee in Crete, that thou shouldest… ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee
PRIESTHOOD / PRIESTS: / PRESBYTERY
1 Peter 2:5 Ye… are built up a living house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices
1 Peter 2:9 Ye are a chosen people, a royal priesthood
Rev. 1:6, Christ hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father
1 Tim. 4:14 The laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Note: In Latin / Greek / Spanish etc., the word “presbitero” translates to “priest”
Acts 6:7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
Exo. 40:15 And thou shalt anoint them, as thou didst anoint their father, that they may minister unto me in the priest’s office: for their anointing shall surely be an everlasting priesthood throughout their generations.
Heb. 1:3 The Son of God; abideth a priest continually.
Heb. 2:17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.
Heb. 5:5-6 Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec
Num. 25:13 And he shall have it, and his seed after him, even the covenant of an everlasting priesthood
Rev, 1:6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Rev. 5:10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
Rev. 20:6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.
JESUS IS A PRIEST / HIGH PRIEST / HAS THE HIGHER PRIESTHOOD:
Heb. 1:3 The Son of God; abideth a priest continually.
Heb. 2:17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.
Heb. 10:11-21 Every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God… their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh, And having an high priest over the house of God.
GOD SITS IN TEMPLE IN NT:
2 Thess. 2:4 [Satan] opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
JESUS’S DIVINE CALLING WAS CONFIRMED BY PROPHECY AT THE TEMPLE:
Luke 2:25-34 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him
Luke 2:36-39 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.
JESUS TAUGHT AT THE TEMPLE AS A YOUTH:
Luke 2:42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.
JESUS CLEANSED THE TEMPLE: Note: It is interesting that this unique expression of Jesus’ emotions (perhaps Jesus’ only outward expression of passionate anger during his life) occurred at the temple.
John 2:13- And the Jews’ passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers’ money, and overthrew the tables; And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father’s house an house of merchandise. And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up.
Mark. 11:15-16 And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves; And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple.
Matt. 21:12-13 And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves. And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.
JESUS CALLS TEMPLE HIS FATHER’S HOUSE:
John 2:16 Take these things hence; make not my Father’s house an house of merchandise
JESUS GIVES INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING TEMPLE RITUALS / WORSHIP:
Matt. 5:22-24 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
Matt. 5:33 ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
Matt. 6:28-19 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Note: This passage may be referring to temple clothing since Solomon (the builder of God’s first temple) is mentioned since there are various specific references in the Sermon on the Mt. to temple rituals (see the Sermon on the Mount point below for more details).
Matt. 21:12-13 And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves. And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.
JESUS WAS OFTEN AT THE TEMPLE:
John 5:14 Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.
John 7:14 Now about the midst of the feast Jesus went up into the temple, and taught.
John 7:28 Then cried Jesus in the temple as he taught, saying, Ye both know me, and ye know whence I am: and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not.
John 8:2 And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them.
John 10:23 And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon’s porch.
John 11:56 Then sought they for Jesus, and spake among themselves, as they stood in the temple, What think ye, that he will not come to the feast?
Luke 19:47 And he taught daily in the temple. But the chief priests and the scribes and the chief of the people sought to destroy him,
Luke 20:1 And it came to pass, that on one of those days, as he taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came upon him with the elders,
Luke 21:37 And in the day time he was teaching in the temple; and at night he went out, and abode in the mount that is called the mount of Olives.
Luke 21:38 And all the people came early in the morning to him in the temple, for to hear him.
Mark 11:11 And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple: and when he had looked round about upon all things, and now the eventide was come, he went out unto Bethany with the twelve.
Mark. 11:15-16 And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves; And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple.
Mark 11:27 And they come again to Jerusalem: and as he was walking in the temple, there come to him the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders,
Mark 12:35 And Jesus answered and said, while he taught in the temple, How say the scribes that Christ is the Son of David?
Mark 13:1 And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!
Mark 13:13 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple,
Mark 14:49 I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not: but the scriptures must be fulfilled
Matt. 12:6-7 I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple. But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day
Matt. 24:1 And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple
Matt. 26:55 In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me.
THE APOSTLES WERE OFTEN AT THE TEMPLE:
Acts 2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart
Acts 3:1 Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.
Acts 3:3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.
Acts 5:19-21 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught…
Acts 5:42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
Acts 21:26 Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.
Acts 22:12 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me. And I said, Lord, they know that I… And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.
Acts 26:21 For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.
JESUS IS GREATER THAN THE TEMPLE:
Matt. 12:6 But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple.
TEMPLES CANNOT CONTAIN GOD: Note: Since there are many Biblical passages that state that God has dwelt in ancient temples, these passages below are likely teaching that God’s presence, power, voice, vision etc. is not limited to the temple. They are expressions of humility at man being approved to build a house for the all powerful God.
1 Kings 8:27 27 But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded?
2 Chronicles 2:6 But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him?
GOD STILL DWELLS IN TEMPLE AFTER CHRIST:
2 Thess. 2:4 The son of perdition… opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God
POST-CHRIST CHRISTIAN TEMPLE WORSHIP IN THE NT:
Luke 24:52-53 [Saints] worshiped [the resurrected Christ] and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God
Acts 2:46 And [the saints], continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house.
Acts 3:1 Acts 21:26 Then Paul took the men (believers) and the next day purifying himself with them, entered into the temple,, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification
Acts 22:17 After Christ appeared to Paul in vision, and after being commanded to be baptized, Paul went and “prayed in the temple”, during which he received another vision of Christ.
Acts 21:26 Then Paul took the men (believers) and the next day purifying himself with them, entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification
1 Cor. 9:13-14 Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? And they that wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live the gospel (Note: Suggests that the temple is still a “holy thing“, even after Christ’s ascension)
TEMPLES IN VISIONS:
Isa. 6:1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.
Rev. 11:1-2 The angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein. But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.
Rev. 14:15 And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to hi that sat on the cloud
Rev. 14:7 Another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven
Rev. 14:8 Another angel came out from the altar
Rev. 15:5-6 And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened: And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles… And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from his power; and no man was able to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled.
Rev. 15: 17 There came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying: It is done.
Rev. 16:1 And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth.
Rev. 16:17 And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done.
TEMPLE WORSHIP DURING MILLENNIUM / LAST DAYS:
Isaiah 2:2-3 It shall come to pass in the last days that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills, and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall say, “Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, and he will teach us of his ways… out of Zion shall go forth his law.
Mal. 3:1-2 The Lord… shall suddenly come to his temple… but who shall abide the day of his coming?
Rev. 7:14-15 These are they which… have washed their robes and made white in the blood of the lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple
POTENTIAL “NO MORE TEMPLE” PASSAGES?
1 Kings 8:27 27 But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded? (also 2 Chronicles 2:6: But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him?) Note: Since there are many Biblical passages that state that God has dwelt in ancient temples or that God can dwell anywhere, then these passages above are likely teaching that God’s presence, power, voice, vision etc. is not limited to the temple alone. They are expressions of humility of the men who were chosen and approved to build a house for the all-powerful God.
Acts 7:39-51 Our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt,David, Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him. And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands… David… found favour before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob. But Solomon built him an house. Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest? Hath not my hand made all these things? Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Note: In context, the phrase “temples made with hands” likely refers to idols made by the hands of the people. The context in this same phrase which is repeated again in Acts 17:24 support sthis interpretation.
Acts. 17:24 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry… Then Paul… said, Ye men of Athens… God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands. Note: In context, the phrase “temples made with hands” clearly refers to man-made idols, not sacred, God-ordained buildings of worship.
Heb. 4:14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. Note: Just because Jesus is called our High Priest does not mean that that office is not also held be others in his church, for the NT also calls Jesus is our “Bishop”, “Shepherd” and “Apostle” in 1 Peter 2:25, Heb. 3:1, which are all callings/offices that clearly were held by others, even after Christ’s death.
1 Tim. 2:4-6 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Note: The context of the “one mediator” passage is salvation from sin. The rest of the New Testament is clear that God has ordained and uses others (prophets, apostles, elders, bishops, teachers, the Holy Spirit etc.) to guide his people in truth, to teach, perform ordinances etc.
Mark 15:37-39 And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God (see also Luke 23:45). Note: Some has interpreted the ripping of the veil to mean the end of all temple worship. However, Paul (2 Cor. 3:13-16) clearly referred to the removing of the veil as a symbol of coming to know Jesus and his words, an interpretation which fits perfectly with the fact that this statement of the veil ripping came right after confession of faith by the centurion at the cross where he confessed that Jesus truly is the Son of God. The ripping of the veil also symbolizes the breaking of Jesus’ body(Heb. 10:20), he being the mediator between us and God (similar to how the veil separates man from God). It also may symbolize having access to the Father’s holy presence through Christ, the changes in priesthood etc. The event has great symbolism, but the Bible never states that it is to be understood to mean an end of all forms of temple worship. Such an interpretation would conflict with the various passages that show that temple worship continued to be a regular part of Christian worship even many years after Christ’s death.
NO TEMPLES IN GOD’S PRESENCE (IN NEXT LIFE):
Rev. 21:22 And I saw no temple therein, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it
PRIVATE / NON-PUBLIC WORSHIPING / HIDDEN KNOWLEDGE: Some aspects of Latter Day Saint temple worship is private, secret, not to be shared outside of the temple. Many have ridiculed such secrecy. However, not only was temple worship non-public in the Old Testament (only some could enter and participate in the ordinances etc.), but the NT passages below show that secret knowledge (granted only to God’s true people) and private worship are Biblical.
Matt. 13:35 I (Jesus) will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world
Rev. 2:17 To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna… which no man knoweth save he that receiveth it.
Psalm 25:14 The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and he will shew them of his covenant.
Prov. 3:32 The Lord… his secret is with the righteous
Dan. 2:28 There is a God in heaven which revealeth secrets
Amos 3:7 Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants, the prophets
Matt. 17:9 Tell this vision (of the transfiguration & appearances of Moses and Elias) to no man until the Son of man be risen again from the dead
Matt. 13:13 Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand
John 16:12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now
Matt. 7:6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you
Matt. 11:25 I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes
Luke 10:21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight
1 Cor. 3:2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to hear it, neither yet now are ye able
1 Cor. 4:XX ???
2 Cor. 12:4 He was caught up into Paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter
SERMON ON THE MOUNT: TEMPLE RITUAL CONTEXT THEORY (BIBLE ONLY): One view among LDS scholars is that the Sermon on the Mount (Jesus’ most famous sermon, which sermon was also preached by the resurrected Jesus to an ancient people in the Americas that Jesus visited after his ascension in the Old World) was actually given within a temple ritual context and setting, that it was or was meant to become a temple ritual. Here below are points that might support this view. For further details and information, I would refer you to the work of John Welch on the subject:
ON A MOUNTAIN: Matt. 5:1 And seeing the multitudes, he (Jesus) went up into a mountain. The Sermon “on the Mount” was given on a mountain. Mountains are consistently connected with God’s temples and His presence in the Bible. Some have even suggested that this sermon may have been given on the mount of the temple (Temple Mount). Compare to: “The Lord commanded Moses in mount Sinai” (Lev. 7:38, Neh. 9:13 etc.), “The mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains” (Isa. 2:2) etc.
FASTING: Matt. 6:17 When thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face. Compare to: Joel 1:14 Sanctify ye a fast, call a solemn assembly, gather… into the house of the Lord your God, and cry unto the Lord
WASHING, ANNOINTING: Matt. 6:17 When thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face. Compare to: Lev. 4:5 And the priest that is anointed shall take of the bullock’s blood, and bring it to the tabernacle of the congregation, 1 Kings 1:39: And Zadok the priest took an horn of oil out of the tabernacle, and anointed Solomon, Exo. 40:12: Thou shalt bring Aaron and his sons unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and wash them with water, Exo. 30:20: When they go into the tabernacle of the congregation, they shall wash with water etc.
WORTHINESS ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: Matt. 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven, also: Matt. 5:22-24 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar… Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. Compare to Exo. 28:43, “When they come near unto the altar to minister in the holy place; that they bear not iniquity“, also “Let none come into the house of the Lord, save the priests, and they that minister of the Levites; they shall go in, for they are holy: but all the people shall keep the watch of the Lord”, 2 Chron. 23:6.
PRIVATE / HOLY / NON-PUBLIC FORMS OF WORSHIP: Matt. 7:6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. Temple worship has always been a non-public form a worship, that is, unlike a general meeting of Christians or saints etc., not anyone (whether those among God’s people or gentiles) was allowed to enter all the inner parts of the temple and particulate in all temple ordinances, only those that God chose or approved. In the Old Testament the Levite priests alone could perform the ordinances and enter into the temple itself, and even they had to meet a certain level of worthiness or separation from iniquity in order to do so. This statement by Jesus seems out of place in the sermon on the mount, and might even seem to conflict with the previous revelations that we are to love our enemies, but viewing it in a temple or ritual context resolves many of these issues. Christ often spoke of certain mysteries and secret knowledge that would be given only to his true followers, knowledge that was forbidden to be shared with all (see the section Private / Non-Public / Secret Worship above for those passages). It would make sense that there would be a physical non-public place where such knowledge could be passed in peace to the believer, a place such as a temple. Compare to: “Let none come into the house of the Lord, save the priests, and they that minister of the Levites; they shall go in, for they are holy: but all the people shall keep the watch of the Lord”, 2 Chron. 23:6. Also, Exo. 28:43, “When they come near unto the altar to minister in the holy place; that they bear not iniquity“,
INSTRUCTIONS FOR GIVING OATHS WITH A YES OR NO: Matt. 5:33 Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: But I say unto you… let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. Compare to: 2 Kings 11:4 Jehoiada… brought them to him into the house of the Lord, and made a covenant with them, and took an oath of them in the house of the Lord. Also, Num. 5:22 Then the priest shall charge the woman with an oath of cursing… And the woman shall say, Amen, amen. Also 2 Kings 11:4 And the seventh year Jehoiada sent and fetched the rulers… and brought them to him into the house of the Lord, and made a covenant with them, and took an oath of them in the house of the Lord,
INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING TEMPLE ALTAR: Matt. 5:22-24 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar… Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. Note: Reconciliation with our brethren is required before coming to the temple altar. Why would the Lord give these specific temple ordinance instructions if temple worship was going to cease just a few years later? One answer might be that temple worship was to continue.
GLORIOUS CLOTHING PROVIDED BY THE LORD: Matt. 6:28-19 That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you. Note: This clothing may be referring to some type of temple clothing. Special clothing/garments were given to the priests of the temple in the Old Testament. “And the cloths of service, and the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest’soffice” (Exo. 31:10) Solomon, who is here referenced, was the builder of God’s first permanent temple. This reference to God-given clothing may also refer to the creation story where God gave Adam and Eve clothing: “Unto Adam also and to his wife did the Lord God make coats of skins, and clothed them” (Gen. 3:21)
LIGHT / GLORY METAPHORS: Matt. 5:14 Ye are the light of the world… Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father. Note: The glory of God and light are often connected with God’s temple: “O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles” (Ps. 43:3), “When Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses’ hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him” (Exo. 34:29). This may also be a reference to the creation when God said, “Let there be light”.
SALT: Matt. 5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men, compare to Lev. 2:13 ,nd every oblation of thy meat offering shalt thou season with salt… with all thine offerings thou shalt offer salt. Clearly, salt has a connection to temple ordinances. This could also be a hint at the creation teaching that man was created of the dust of the earth.
TRANSITION TO HIGHER ORDER: Matt. 5:38 It hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth, but I say unto you that ye resist not evil… turn the other cheek, Matt. 5:27-28 It was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Compare to the various increasing orders / chambers of the temple: Exo. 26:33 The veil shall divide unto you between the holy place and the most holy.
VEIL / DOOR / GATE BETWEEN MAN AND GOD: Matt. 7:7, 13-14 Knock, and it shall be opened unto you… Enter ye in at the strait gate, Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life. Compare to: Exo. 26:33 The veil shall divide unto you between the holy place and the most holy.
SEE GOD: Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Compare to God’s presence in the temple and in the holy of holies, Exo. 33:9-11 Moses entered into the tabernacle… and the Lord talked with Moses, And the Lord spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. Lev. 16:2: I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat.
THREE FOLD PETITION: Matt. 7:7 Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you. The number three is a number commonly used in connection with rituals among God’s people. For example, the tabernacle and temple were both divided into three sections (Exo. 26:33), the ark of the covenant contained three sacred items, persons baptized are baptized in the names of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost etc.
COVENANT BLESSINGS FOR THE RIGHTEOUS: Matt. 5:3-5 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven, Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted etc. Compare to: Lev. 18:4-5 Ye shall do my judgments, and keep mine ordinances… which if a man do, he shall live in them, Dan. 9:4 O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments, Deut. 7:12-13 If ye hearken to these judgments, and keep, and do them, [then] the Lord thy God shall keep unto thee the covenant and the mercy which he sware unto thy fathers, And he will love thee, and bless thee. Note: These OT promises were dependent upon one keeping covenants and ordinances, which largely include those of the temple / tabernacle.
PUNISHMENTS FOR INIQUITY / BREAKING OF COVENANT: Matt. 5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men, Matt. 7:6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. Compare to Exo. 28:43, “When they come near unto the altar to minister in the holy place; that they bear not iniquity, and die: it shall be a statute for ever unto him and his seed after him“. Also, Num. 5:22 Then the priest shall charge the woman with an oath of cursing… And the woman shall say, Amen, amen. Also, Ps. 50:5, 22 that have made a covenant with me… now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces
GIVING OF LAW: Matt. 5:17-18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled, compare to Ezek. 44:5, “The house of the Lord and all the laws thereof” and Isaiah 2:2-3, “Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, and he will teach us of his ways… out of Zion shall go forth his law”
LAW OF CHASTITY / ADULTERY: Matt. 5:27-28, 32 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart…. whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery. Note: Avoiding adultery is one of the ten commandments received by Moses, which laws were kept in the arc of the covenant in the temple.
TO BECOME LIKE GOD: Matt. 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Compare to Lev. 19:2 Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy, Exo. 30:15 give an offering unto the Lord, to make an atonement for your souls. Note: The word “atonement” is commonly understand to mean “at one” ment, that is, to become one with God. The purpose of vicarious sacrifices was to make us one with God, to make us like Him.
PRAYER IN GROUP SETTING: Matt. 6:9-13 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Note: The format of this prayer (giving specific words and not just a general outline) might suggest that it was meant to be repeated in a ritual setting. In fact, this prayer is memorized and repeatedly in just such a way in the Roman Catholic Church, which is one of the oldest Christian organizations in the world. Even prayer in a group setting itself leans towards a ritual setting.
BREAD: Matt. 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread. Compare to: 2 Chron. 4:9 And Solomon made all the vessels that were for the house of God, the golden altar also, and the tables whereon the shewbread was set.
CANDLESTICKS: Matt. 5:!5 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Compare to: Exo. 26:35 And thou shalt set the table without the veil, and the candlestick over against the table on the side of the tabernacle toward the south, and 2 Chron. 4:7 And he made ten candlesticks of gold according to their form, and set them in the temple
SERMON ON THE MOUNT: TEMPLE RITUAL CONTEXT THEORY (BOOK OF MORMON): The Book of Mormon gives an account of the resurrected Jesus appeared to an ancient people that lived here on the American continent. Generally I would not include verses or thoughts from books other than the Bible on this site, but this idea below is so fascinating and eye opening to me that I felt that I had to share it. In this Book of Mormon event of Jesus appearing to this ancient American people, Jesus repeated the Sermon on the Mount, though with some differences in both setting and word compared to the sermon given in the Old World as recorded in the NT. Those differences seem to further support the theory that the Sermon on the Mount was indeed given with a temple ritual context. See below for those supporting points:
AT A TEMPLE: 3 Nephi 11:1 And now it came to pass that there were a great multitude gathered together, of the people of Nephi, round about the temple which was in the land Bountiful. While the NT Sermon on the “Mount” hints at a temple setting, this Book of Mormon record specifies that the sermon was given to this people at their temple.
OPEN EARS & EYES: 3 Nephi 11:5 And again the third time they did hear the voice, and did open their ears to hear it; and their eyes were towards the sound thereof. The opening of the ears and eyes is often connected with rituals and received spiritual knowledge, compare to: Ezek. 44:5 And the Lord said unto me, Son of man, mark well, and behold with thine eyes, and hear with thine ears all that I say unto thee concerning all the ordinances of the house of the Lord
DELEGATION: FATHER TO JESUS TO APOSTLES: 3 Nephi 11:7 Behold my Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased, in whom I have glorified my name—hear ye him, 3 Nephi 12:1 Blessed are ye if ye shall give heed unto the words of these twelve whom I have chosen from among you to minister unto you… unto them I have given power that they may baptize you with water. 3 Nephi 17:2 I am commanded of the Father to speak unto you at this time. 3 Nephi 20:26 The Father… sent me to bless you in turning away every one of you from his iniquities. 3 Nephi 26:20 And it came to pass that they did do all things even as Jesus had commanded them. Here, we see the Father delegating authority to the Son, and the Son delegating authority and tasks to his disciples who do exactly as Jesus commanded them.
WHITE ROBES: 3 Nephi 11:8 And it came to pass, as they understood they cast their eyes up again towards heaven; and behold, they saw a Man descending out of heaven; and he was clothed in a white robe. It is interesting that the recorder thought it important to mention type of clothing of Jesus was wearing, a type of clothing that was given to priests to where in the Old Testament tabernacle and temple. Compare to: Exo. 28:4 And these are the garments which they shall make; a breastplate, and an ephod, and a robe, and a broidered coat, a mitre, and a girdle: and they shall make holy garments for Aaron thy brother, and his sons, that he may minister unto me in the priest’s office.
INVITATION FOR ALL TO ARISE: 3 Nephi 11:14-15 Arise and come forth unto me. 3 Nephi 20:2 And he commanded them that they should arise and stand up upon their feet. And they arose up and stood upon their feet.
ONE BY ONE: 3 Nephi 11:14-15 Arise and come forth unto me… And it came to pass that the multitude went forth, and thrust their hands into his side, and did feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet; and this they did do, going forth one by one until they had all gone forth. An invitation to come one by one strongly supports a ritual context.
IDENTIFICATION BY MARKS ON HANDS: 3 Nephi 11:14-15 Arise and come forth unto me, that ye may thrust your hands into my side, and also that ye may feel the prints of the nails in my hands and in my feet, that ye may know that I am the God of Israel, and the God of the whole earth, and have been slain for the sins of the world. And it came to pass that the multitude went forth, and thrust their hands into his side, and did feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet; and this they did do, going forth one by one until they had all gone forth, and did see with their eyes and did feel with their hands, and did know of a surety and did bear record, that it was he. Compare to: Zech. 12:10, 13:6 And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced… What are these wounds in thine hands? Then he shall answer, Those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends.
HOSANNA SHOUT: 3 Nephi 11:17 And when they had all gone forth and had witnessed for themselves, they did cry out with one accord, saying: Hosanna! Blessed be the name of the Most High God! This shouting of praise to the Lord with the exact same synchronized words strongly supporting a ritual and temple setting. Compare to: 2 Sam. 6:15 So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord with shouting, and with the sound of the trumpet; Ezra 3:11 And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.
PRIESTHOOD AUTHORITY: 3 Nephi 11:21 And the Lord said unto him: I give unto you power that ye shall baptize this people when I am again ascended into heaven. Priesthood authority is clearly connected with the performance of sacred ordinances and rituals (particularly those of the temple). Compare to: Exo. 40:15 And thou shalt anoint them, as thou didst anoint their father, that they may minister unto me in the priest’s office: for their anointing shall surely be an everlasting priesthood throughout their generations.
ASSURANCE OF ABSENCE OF EVIL / OF THE DEVIL / DEPART: 3 Nephi 11:28-29 There shall be no disputations among you, as there have hitherto been; neither shall there be disputations among you concerning the points of my doctrine… he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil, who is the father of contention, and 3 Nephi 13:12 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 3 Nephi 20:21 And then shall a cry go forth: Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch not that which is unclean; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord.. In 3 Nephi 14:22 we learn that some have been given power to cast out devils (though the passage warns that this power is sometimes used without proper authority): Lord… in thy name have cast out devils. Clearly the influence or presence of Satan was to be removed from this setting.
LAW OF WITNESSES INVOKED: 3 Nephi 11:35-36 Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and I bear record of it from the Father… And thus will the Father bear record of me, and the Holy Ghost will bear record unto him of the Father and me. The law of having two or three witnesses is a vital and Biblical component of covenant making. At this unique event, the Godhead members acted as official witness of each other and of the doctrine shared. Compare to: Deut. 19:15 One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.
COMMANDMENTS / OBEDIENCE: 3 Nephi 12:19-20 I have given you the law and the commandments of my Father, that ye shall believe in me, and that ye shall repent of your sins, and come unto me with a broken heart and a contrite spirit… Therefore come unto me and be ye saved; for verily I say unto you, that except ye shall keep my commandments, which I have commanded you at this time, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Note: Only in the Book of Mormon sermon are the Lord’s teachings referred to as commandments, giving additional light into the importance, necessity and context of those teachings.
CONSECRATION: 3 Nephi 13:24 No man can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will hold to the one and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and Mammon. Note: Here, we are invited to consecrate or dedicate ourselves wholly to the Lord.
PREPARING FOR JUDGMENT: 3 Nephi 14:1-5 Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged; and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother: Let me pull the mote out of thine eye—and behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast the beam out of thine own eye.
THREEFOLD PETITION: 3 Nephi 14:7 Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Here is a threefold petition from man to God, including a reference to someone being welcomed in after knocking.
HOW TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN TRUE AND FALSE MESSENGERS: 3 Nephi 14:15-20 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves…. every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit… by their fruits ye shall know them. Here, we are directed to review the fruits/doings/words of those that claim to be messengers of God to determine whether or not they are true messengers.
TWO TREES (ONE EVIL, ONE GOOD): 3 Nephi 14:17-18 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. This passage speaks of two trees, one that represent goodness and one that represents evil. This might be compared to the two trees involved in the fall of man, the tree of life (that brings life) and the tree of knowledge of good and evil (which brings death).
HEALING OF THE SICK & AFFLICTED: 3 Nephi 17:7 Have ye any that are sick among you? Bring them hither. Have ye any that are lame, or blind, or halt, or maimed, or leprous, or that are withered, or that are deaf, or that are afflicted in any manner? Bring them hither and I will heal them, for I have compassion upon you; my bowels are filled with mercy. Here, Jesus intercedes for the “sick” and “afflicted”. Prayer for the healing of the sick and afflicted is a part of temple rituals today.
EXORTATION TO GIVE “HEED” TO APOSTLES: 3 Nephi 12:1 Blessed are ye if ye shall give heed unto the words of these twelve whom I have chosen from among you to minister unto you. Here, God’s people are exhorted to give strict “heed” to the apostles / disciples that Jesus chose, which heeding would lead them to great blessings.
PARENTS AND CHILDREN: 3 Nephi 17:11-24 And it came to pass that he commanded that their little children should be brought. So they brought their little children and set them down upon the ground round about him, and Jesus stood in the midst… And it came to pass that when they had all been brought, and Jesus stood in the midst, he commanded the multitude that they should kneel down upon the ground… and he took their little children, one by one, and blessed them, and prayed unto the Father for them… no one can conceive of the joy which filled our souls at the time … And he spake unto the multitude, and said unto them: Behold your little ones, And as they looked to behold they cast their eyes towards heaven, and they saw the heavens open, and they saw angels descending out of heaven as it were in the midst of fire; and they came down and encircled those little ones about. Some have theorized that this may be a sealing of children of their parents, that in saying, “Behold your little ones”, Jesus was not simply inviting the parents to look at their kids, but that he was basically, “Behold, these are now truly your children (now just for time but for eternity)”. There was prayer, authority, parents and children, kneeling, joy unspeakable, and events that occurred in the presence of God, angels and witnesses, and Jesus confirmed to all, “Behold, your little ones”.
BUILDING / CONTRUCTION SYMBOLISM: 3 Nephi 14:24-27 Therefore, whoso heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, who built his house upon a rock, And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not, for it was founded upon a rock. Here, the Lord uses materials / tools used in construction as symbols to direct people towards Christ who is the rock. Our building upon Christ as the rock might logically symbolize our following him in obedience with exactness.
SECRECY / SACRED ITEMS NOT RECORDED: 3 Nephi 17:15, 17 The things which he prayed cannot be written, and the multitude did bear record who heard him….No tongue can speak, neither can there be written by any man, neither can the hearts of men conceive so great and marvelous things as we both saw and heard Jesus speak. 3 Nephi 26:18 And many of them saw and heard unspeakable things, which are not lawful to be written. Not only is the “Cast not your pearls before the swine” statement also in the Book of Mormon sermon, but these passages also confirm that some things were done or said at this even and beyond what was recorded, events and words which were not to be recorded or made public beyond those that experienced them personally.
EXACT WORDS REPEATED: 3 Nephi 19:7-8 The disciples did pray unto the Father also in the name of Jesus. And it came to pass that they arose and ministered unto the people, And when they had ministered those same words which Jesus had spoken—nothing varying from the words which Jesus had spoken. This mention of repeating/ teaching the exact same words that Jesus taught (nothing varying) suggests a ritual or ordinances context.
KNEELING BEFORE THE LORD (MULTIPLE TIMES): 3 Nephi 19:16-17 And it came to pass that he spake unto the multitude, and commanded them that they should kneel down again upon the earth, and also that his disciples should kneel down upon the earth. And it came to pass that when they had all knelt down upon the earth. In the LDS temple endowment, a couple (who represents all of those present) kneels down upon the altar of God multiple times throughout the ordinances.
SHINING GLORY OF PARTICIPANTS: 3 Nephi 19:25 And it came to pass that Jesus blessed them as they did pray unto him; and his countenance did smile upon them, and the light of his countenance did shine upon them, and behold they were as white as the countenance and also the garments of Jesus; and behold the whiteness thereof did exceed all the whiteness, yea, even there could be nothing upon earth so white as the whiteness thereof. The only other event in scripture where a man’s skin or face shone was Moses as he came from the Lord’s presence on Mt. Sinai (which acted as a holy temple before the building of the tabernacle / temple: Exo. 34:29 And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses’ hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him.
COMMAND FOR ALL TO ARISE: 3 Nephi 20:2 And he commanded them that they should arise and stand up upon their feet. And they arose up and stood upon their feet.
PROMISE OF SALVATION THROUGH SEED: 2 Nephi 20:25 Ye are of the covenant which the Father made with your fathers, saying unto Abraham: And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. This promise of a Savior is very similar to the one given in the garden of Eden that the seed of the woman will crush the head of the serpent.
GIVING OF SIGNS: 3 Nephi 21:1,2, 7 And verily I say unto you, I give unto you a sign, that ye may know the time when these things shall be about to take place… And behold, this is the thing which I will give unto you for a sign—for verily I say unto you that when these things which I declare unto you, and which I shall declare unto you hereafter of myself, and by the power of the Holy Ghost which shall be given unto you of the Father, shall be made known unto the Gentiles that they may know concerning this people who are a remnant of the house of Jacob, and concerning this my people who shall be scattered by them… And when these things come to pass that thy seed shall begin to know these things—it shall be a sign unto them, that they may know that the work of the Father hath already commenced… These signs refer to events that would occur. It is perhaps interesting that this chapter mentions three signs that will be given.
THE LORD SHALL COME TO HIS TEMPLE: 3 Nephi 24:1 The Lord whom ye seek shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in.
TITHING REQUIREMENT: 3 Nephi Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say: Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. During Jesus’ visit to the Nephites, he reminds the saints of the necessity and commandment of paying tithing. The payment of a full tithing is a prerequisite today for those who wish to participate in temple ordinances.
THEY SHALL BELIEVE: 3 Nephi 20:31 And they shall believe in me, that I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Note: To accept Jesus as the Son of God is part of the temple recommendation questions, a requirement for entering the temple.
ORDINANCES FOR THE DEAD: 3 Nephi 25:5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord; And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers. Modern revelation has clarified that this passage primarily refers vicarious ordinances performed for the dead in the temple. Work for the dead is a primary purpose of LDS temples today.
CREATION (BEGINNING) EXPLAINED: 3 Nephi 26:3 And he did expound all things, even from the beginning until the time that he should come in his glory. 3 Nephi 23:6 And now it came to pass that when Jesus had said these words he said unto them again, after he had expounded all the scriptures unto them which they had received. This explanation of all things “from the beginning” surely included an explanation of the creation and fall of Adam and Eve.
RETURN AND REPORT: 3 Nephi 17:2 I am commanded of the Father to speak unto you at this time… now I go unto the Father.
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