GLORIOUS RUINS

In Gospel of Mark 13:1–2, the disciples were amazed by the beauty and greatness of the temple in Jerusalem:

 “Look, Teacher, what wonderful stones and what wonderful buildings!”

   Mark 13:1

The Temple

• The temple was one of the most magnificent structures of the ancient world.
• Herod built it with massive stones and impressive architecture.
• It became a symbol of strength, achievement, security, and national pride for the Jewish people.

Our Modern “Temples”

• In the same way, we build our own “temples” through:
• careers
• education
• dreams
• achievements
• status and success
• These things are not wrong, but when we depend on them more than God, they can make us prideful and self-reliant.
• No matter how impressive these “buildings” are, they do not glorify God if they replace Him in our hearts.

Jesus responded to the disciples:

 “Do you see these great buildings? There will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.”

Mark 13:2

• As great as the temple was, Jesus declared that He was greater than the temple (Matthew 12:6).
• For many Jews, the temple had subtly become an idol — something that meant more to them than God Himself.
• Even good things can become idols when they take God’s place in our lives.

Jesus warned:

“Watch out that no one deceives you.”

Mark 13:5

• One deception is believing that what we build can truly secure us.
• Anything built only on human strength is temporary.
• Sometimes God allows our “temples” to be shaken or broken so we stop trusting in ourselves and return to Him.

God’s Purpose in the Shaking

Even in destruction and uncertainty, Jesus says:

“Do not be alarmed.”

Mark 13:7

God may allow things to fall apart to:

• humble us
• purify us
• remove our pride
• teach us to depend fully on Him
• God wants us to build our lives not on earthly achievements, but on Him alone.

God is also able to rebuild this temple (our life, His church) for His name sake. As we surrender, He will surely make it His dwelling place as He wants it to be. We become the GLORIOUS RUINS that glorifies Him alone. 

"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; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."

1 Corinthians 6:19-20: This passage reveals that the "temple" God is rebuilding and dwelling in is your very own body and life. After shaking, there comes rebuilding. 

Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.”

John 2:19

 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

Mark 13:31

PAS MATET - JCRC HANOI