Part 1- The Gate
Leader Guide
The temple is in you. You are a part of the place God dwells on earth. “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;” (1 Corinthians 6:19, ESV). Throughout this series we will be learning about the temple, the sacred place God inhabits on earth. As broken as people are, He chose us. He offered up His son as an atoning sacrifice to allow us into His presence.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
Leader: This section is designed to get discussions started, examine God’s truth, and apply it to our week. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in their group is a Christ follower. Because they are taking part in a Life Group, they must have some openness to knowing more, exploring. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. What comes to mind when you hear the phrase “your body is a temple?”
Leader Note: Many people think of taking care of our physical bodies through diet, exercise or good hygiene. How does physical care relate to spiritual readiness? Consider preparing your temple with rest, consuming good media or limiting media, maintaining healthy habits and rhythms.
2. Read Hebrews 9. Where and how did the Israelites worship under the old covenant? Where does God’s presence reside now?
Leader Note: In the English Standard Version the temple is referred to as the “earthly place of holiness.” God does not inhabit unholy places. When Jesus died on the cross the 4-inch-thick veil was torn in two from the top (where no one could reach) to the bottom. Discuss the reason that those who have accepted Jesus can become holy places, suitable homes for God’s presence.
3. Read Hebrews 9:2; Acts 2:42. How was the tent prepared and what did it contain? What preparation do you make when you come to worship God?
Leader’s Note: The bread of the presence is 12 loaves representing the 12 tribes of Israel. There was a lampstand, and a table. The tent was meticulously measured, prepared, and appointed based on the laws recorded in Exodus 26.
4. Read Hebrews 9:4; Revelation 8:3-4. What is symbolized by the incense burning in gold bowls on the altar in the most holy place? How and when are we invited into that same holy of holies space today?
Leader’s Note: Incense rises like the prayers of the saints. Today when we pray, we are entering the holy of holies to communicate directly to God through Jesus and his sacrifice on our behalf.
5. Read Hebrews 9:6-7. The priests enter the first section of the tabernacle to perform prescribed sacrifices regularly. What regular duties are they performing? What regular habits do you, or other believers you admire, have because of devotion to Jesus? What kind of sacrifices can we offer today (see Romans 12:1)?
Leader’s Note: The priests offer regular sacrifices for the sins of the people in the first part of the temple. They go there to seek God. The holy of holies is rarely entered and even then, only with great preparation. We can sacrifice time, energy, and even reputation when worshiping God. The 5 habits (attend Life Group, serve, prayer and personal time with God, attending a weekend service, and giving generously) are good examples of our devotion to God. Micah 6:8 tells us what God wants for and of us. Justice, kindness/mercy, and to walk humbly with Him. This verse is in the OLD Testament! He wanted the same intimate relationship with us even before Jesus made it possible.
6. Read Hebrews 9:8-12. How many sacrifices were needed under the Old Covenant (Mosaic Law)? How many sacrifices are needed under the New Covenant (Jesus)? Why?
Leader: Many sacrifices are required for sins under the law and none of them takes away sin or guilt entirely. But when Jesus comes His sacrifice is absolutely acceptable and takes away all sin. His perfect sacrifice is all we need. Yet, we offer our lives as living sacrifices to honor the God we love.
Deeper
Leader: This section is designed for further use in your Life Group or for personal study. These can also be used as discussion points and ways to stay connected with your group throughout the week. Encourage your group to take time daily to walk through these questions.
7. Read Acts 10. What habits did Cornelius have that God noticed? What did Cornelius do when God spoke to him? How did his actions affect the whole church? What can we learn from his example today?
Leader’s Note: Cornelius had a habit of giving and serving. Although Cornelius was a foreigner, his actions showed that he was seeking justice, mercy and God wanted to walk with Him! Cornelius was used to bring all gentiles to God and to teach Peter to accept all people.
8. Read 1 Corinthians 3:16; Luke 12:31; Matthew 6:33. What does seeking the kingdom of heaven look like today? How does knowing that we ARE the temple change our behavior?