2 “Do you see all these things?” he asked. “I tell you the truth, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.”
Destruction can be part of God’s plan! Jesus’ disciples were commenting on the magnificent buildings that were part of the Temple complex in Jerusalem. They were said to have been some of the most magnificent in the ancient world. Why would God allow something so magnificent, so beautiful, built to support the worship of Him, to be destroyed? The Temple and its buildings had become an obstacle to true worship. They were a visible object lesson of a future reality. Have you ever gotten furniture in a box? The first thing you do is pull out the instructions, check to be sure all the parts are there, and then you follow the step by step process. But after you have built many of the same objects, you don’t need the instructions anymore. The Temple and its rituals were the simple lesson, simple enough for the youngest to understand the lesson being taught. When Jesus came, the need for the lesson disappeared. He was the object of the lesson. Have you seen people standing at the airport with signs waiting for someone to arrive? It would be helpful for the receiving person to have a picture of the one arriving. But once they arrive, there is no need for the picture any longer. Once Jesus had arrived, there was no need for the Temple and it’s supporting organization. Sometimes the Lord has to get rid of some things in our lives in order for us to worship Him more fully. Are there things in your life right now that are getting in the way of your full worship of Him?
The Arnold Journey 