AMY TURNER

In Matthew 12:6, Jesus makes a statement that deeply unsettled the religious leaders of His day. He told them, “Something greater than the temple is here.” This was a bold claim, especially considering how important the temple was to the Jewish people. It was not only an impressive building, but also the centre of worship, sacrifice, and the symbol of God’s presence among His people.

The temple was the place where offerings were made to seek forgiveness, and it held the Holy of Holies, the most sacred space, believed to be where God’s presence rested. Yet Jesus declared that He Himself fulfilled all these purposes in a greater way. He provides forgiveness and brings people directly into God’s presence through Himself.

Through Christ, what the temple represented is now fully and personally available to those who believe in Him.

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me.

John 14:6