Health and Stewardship

What Does It Mean That the Body Is a Temple of the Holy Spirit?

This teaching means that believers' bodies are indwelt by God's Spirit and therefore belong to Him, calling for care and respect for physical health as an expression of honoring God rather than something separate from spiritual life.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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Biblical explanation

Paul asks the Corinthian believers, “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” concluding that believers should “glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's” (). This truth elevates physical stewardship—rest, nutrition, exercise, and avoiding harmful substances—into a matter of spiritual significance rather than mere personal preference. It also implies dignity and respect for the body against practices Scripture warns against, such as sexual immorality () or substance abuse that damages health. Caring wisely for physical health, while not making it an idol, honors the God who chose to dwell within believers by His Spirit.

In brief

Paul asks the Corinthian believers, “What?

Bible references

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Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.