A SERIES OF DEVOTIONS BASED ON THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MATTHEW 

IT IS NOT THE BUILDING     

Matthew 24:1-2 “Jesus left the temple and was walking away when His disciples came up to Him to call His attention to its buildings. “Do you see all these things?” He asked. “Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” 

On a recent vacation, Debbie and I toured a huge, ornate cathedral in Toronto, Canada. The exterior was constructed of massive granite blocks. The windows were the finest of stained glass. They depicted many scenes taken from the pages of Holy Scripture. The altar was huge. Gold was used extensively in a variety of places within the interior.   

Thousands visit this cathedral every day to view its architecture and grandeur. It is one of the top tourist attractions in Toronto. There is even a presentation of a special “light show” every evening if you are willing to pay the price of admission.   

For the Jews of Jerusalem and the entire country of Israel the Temple was precious and revered. It was the heart and center of their society and culture. Almost in passing Jesus pointed out to His disciples that the Temple would be destroyed. He said “ . . . not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” 

As important as church buildings may seem to be, they really are not. What matters is what is taught, the worship that is conducted, the sacraments that are administered, and what is believed by those who attend services inside of them. In fact, church buildings are not needed for the Gospel to be proclaimed, the sacraments administered or prayers spoken. John the Baptist ministered out in the wilderness. Jesus taught from a boat. St. Peter led prayers from within a prison. St. Paul and Silas baptized the Philippian jailer and his family at the jailer’s home. Romans 1:16-17 says, “ . . . the gospel is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” 

Prayer: Bless, O Lord, the proclamation of the Gospel and the administration of the sacraments for the salvation of those who hear and receive. In Jesus’ name. Amen.   

In the cross of Christ I glory, Tow’ring oe’r the wrecks of time.  
All the light of sacred story Gathers round its head sublime. 

When the woes of life o’ertake me Hopes deceive, and fears annoy,  
Never shall the cross forsake me; Lo, it glows with peace and joy. 

When the sun of bliss is beaming Light and love upon my way,   
From the cross the radiance streaming Adds more luster to the day. 

Bane and blessing, pain and pleasure By the cross are sanctified;  
Peace is there that knows no measure, Joys that through all time abide.

 In the Cross of Christ I Glory // LSB 427