Jesus and New Temple

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 Luke 23:45 records that when Jesus died on the cross, the temple curtain was torn in two. This event holds deep theological significance and is closely connected to the destruction of the temple in A.D. 70 and the prophecy that God would establish a new temple with Jesus as the cornerstone.

1. Luke 23:45 – The Tearing of the Temple Curtain

"The curtain of the temple was torn in two." (Luke 23:45)

The Jerusalem temple had a massive curtain separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (the Holy of Holies).

  • The Holy of Holies was where God’s presence dwelled, and only the high priest could enter once a year (Leviticus 16:2).

  • When Jesus died, the tearing of the curtain symbolized the end of the old sacrificial system and the opening of a new way to God through Jesus (Hebrews 10:19-20).

This was not just a supernatural event; it was a clear sign that a major shift was happening in God’s plan.

2. A.D. 70 – The Destruction of the Temple

Jesus prophesied the destruction of the temple:
"Not one stone will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." (Matthew 24:2)

  • In A.D. 70, Roman General Titus led the siege of Jerusalem and completely destroyed the temple.

  • This event marked the definitive end of the Old Testament temple-based worship system.

  • God was making it clear: His presence would no longer dwell in a physical building.

The destruction of the temple was not just a historical tragedy; it was a fulfillment of Jesus’ words and a transition into a new era.

3. Jesus as the Cornerstone of the New Temple

After the destruction of the physical temple, God established a new temple—not made of bricks, but of people who believe in Jesus.

  • John 2:19-21 → Jesus said, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” He was talking about His own body, not the physical temple.

  • Ephesians 2:19-22 → Jesus is the cornerstone, and believers are built into a spiritual temple.

  • 1 Peter 2:4-6 → Those who believe in Christ are “living stones” in God’s new house.

This means God’s presence is now in the community of believers, not a physical location.

4. Connecting the Three Events

EventMeaning
Luke 23:45 (Temple Curtain Torn)The Old Testament system ended, and a new way to God through Jesus was opened.
A.D. 70 (Temple Destroyed)The physical temple was completely removed, confirming that God no longer dwelled in a building.
Jesus as the Cornerstone (Eph. 2:19-22)The new temple is built on Christ, and believers are part of it.

Conclusion

The tearing of the temple curtain in Luke 23:45 was not an isolated event—it marked the beginning of a new era. The destruction of the temple in A.D. 70 confirmed that the old way was gone, and now, God’s presence dwells in those who believe in Jesus.

📖 “You are God’s temple, and His Spirit dwells in you.” (1 Corinthians 3:16)

Through Jesus, we have direct access to God, and we ourselves become His living temple! 

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