Will the temple be rebuilt in Jerusalem before Jesus returns?, Pt. 1

With the constant turmoil threatening stability in the Middle East, many Bible commentators are always speculating about whether the Jewish temple will be rebuilt in the years to come. Entire Christian ministries are established to assist in the building of the temple to hasten the return of Jesus. For many, such an event will signal the start of the final events of earth’s history.

However, in the same way many Christians mistakenly shift the focus from spiritual Israel to the literal Jewish nation, they are also confused on the subject of the temple. Most speculation for a rebuilt temple springs from a vague reference in 2 Thessalonians 2 dealing with the antichrist: “Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God” (vv. 3, 4).

Many say that for the antichrist to sit in the temple, it will need to be rebuilt. Those who support this belief are known as “Christian Zionists,” and they include such popular writers as Hal Lindsey, Tim LaHaye, and John Hagee. Their published book sales exceed 70 million copies—including the popular Left Behind series. Their beliefs are endorsed by some of the largest theological institutions.

But are they correct? To begin, let’s go to 1 Chronicles 17:11, 12: “When your days are fulfilled … I will set up your seed after you, who will be of your sons; and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build Me a house, and I will establish his throne forever.” This prophecy given to King David says his offspring will build the temple.

This text is one of the clearest examples of a dual prophecy found in Scripture. In tomorrow’s devotional, we’ll explore more what this means.

Key Bible Texts

But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple. (Matthew 12:6 KJV)