Temple Stones

“As he was leaving the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look, Teacher! What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!” “Do you see all these great buildings?” replied Jesus. “Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” Mark 13:1-2

The craftsmanship of Herod’s Temple was amazing. Though stones were quarried and chiseled into shape miles away from the Temple Mount, the joints fit so tightly that even today, a credit card cannot be slipped between them.

Herod’s temple stones were not only carefully shaped, but they were also huge. Stones were up to 10.5 feet high, between 11 and 14 feet thick, and 45 feet long. And these massive stones, weighing up to 570 tons, can be found up to 60 feet above the ground.

Modern engineers marvel at the craftsmanship of Herod’s Temple. Its huge gates and impressive stones must have required advanced technical skills to design and build. The size and scope of the Temple Mount stood as a testimony to Herod’s wealth and power.

Jesus’ disciples admired the Temple construction too. As they looked at the stones, they said, “Look, Teacher! What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!” But Jesus foresaw the day when all of Herod’s handiwork would be destroyed. He foresaw the destruction of the Temple as he replied, “Not one stone here will be left on another.”

Just like the stones of the Temple, each believer has a unique place in God’s Kingdom today. God has carefully shaped each of us, fitting us together in a way that strengthens our communities. Unlike the Temple stones built for Herod’s glory, the spiritual house of God’s children will last forever. We are a Church Without Walls!

Prayer
Jesus, help me see that anything built here, other than for your Kingdom, will not last. Help me keep you at the center of my life (You are my cornerstone) as I build your church, your people, for your Kingdom. Amen