Jesus’ disciples were impressed by the enormous buildings of... - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

Teacher, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!
Mark 13: 1.

Jesus' disciples were impressed by the enormous buildings of the temple in Jerusalem and pointed them out to their Lord. Jesus answered them, "Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone shall be left upon another that shall not be thrown down" (v.2).

I thought of these words when I stood in front of the ruins of the All Saints Monastery Church in the Black Forest. The early gothic edifice was destroyed by fire after being struck by lightning in 1804. Impressive parts of the walls, however, still tower up towards the sky.

A destroyed church gives us occasion to ponder over the various meanings of the word "church".

As buildings churches can be magnificently decorated, or simple and practical, but they can and on some occasion will be destroyed. Their importance does not extend beyond time.

The word "church" also signifies a company of people who profess Christianity. They may gather strictly and faithfully according to biblical doctrine or have distanced themselves from it in one or another way. As such, they, too, will not extend beyond time. None will remain in eternity.

The church as it is described in the Bible, e.g. as the Body of Christ or the house of God, comprises all believing Christians, as a spiritual institution. Christ Himself is the Master builder of His church. So it can never be destroyed . Faith in Christ ensures the membership of this spiritual church, and that is what counts for eternity!

Today‘s reading: 2 Kings 13: 10 - 25 · 1 John 1: 5 - 10