Temple theology
Temple theology is the study of how the Bible’s temple theme develops from Eden and the tabernacle and temple to Christ, the church, and the new creation. It focuses on God’s presence, holiness, worship, and atonement.
At a Glance
The study of temple themes such as presence, holiness, worship, and fulfillment.
Description
Temple theology refers to the study of the temple as a major theme in Scripture and of the ways that theme develops across the biblical story. In the Old Testament, the tabernacle and later the temple were appointed places of God’s dwelling presence, covenant worship, sacrifice, priestly service, and holiness. In the New Testament, these realities are closely connected to Jesus Christ, who fulfills the sacrificial and mediating purposes to which the temple pointed, and to the church, which is described corporately as God’s dwelling by the Spirit. Many also trace the theme from Eden as an early pattern of God dwelling with man and forward to the new creation, where God’s presence is fully realized. Because scholars and traditions differ on how broadly the temple pattern should be extended, the safest conclusion is that temple theology highlights the Bible’s unified witness to God’s holy presence among his people and the fulfillment of temple themes in Christ and God’s redemptive plan.
Related Entries
- Temple Christology
- Tabernacle
- Presence of God
- Holiness
- sacrifice