Where Christ Dwells, There Is the Sanctuary

When Christ dwells within, every moment becomes a sanctuary.

Devotional Credit:
From Open Windows by T. Austin-Sparks — “That They May All Be One, Even As We Are One” (Meeting 9)

Photo Credit:
Photo by Gabriel Sollmann on Unsplash

T. Austin-Sparks opens a window into a sobering yet liberating truth: the spiritual vitality of the Church is not found in buildings, rituals, or outward reverence. Over time, Christianity has accumulated layers of manmade constructs—systems, structures, traditions—that cloud the simplicity and purity of Christ’s indwelling presence. These additions have not only complicated the faith but have, tragically, become obstacles to the very Life they aim to honor.

The devotion underscores that God is not impressed by architecture, stained glass, or the weight of tradition. What He desires is not grandeur but presence—His own presence. A building, no matter how revered, is not sacred unless Christ is there. His interest lies not in what we build for Him, but whether we are offering Him a dwelling place, not made by human hands, but formed of surrendered hearts.

The devotional challenges the way believers speak of “entering the house of God” when gathering in a building. Sparks asks pointedly: What makes any place sacred? The answer is simple yet searching—only the presence of the Lord. Not the form, not the size, not the legacy, but the indwelling Christ. He who once tabernacled in a tent and later in a temple now seeks His dwelling in hearts where He is welcomed and worshiped.

Finally, we’re reminded that everything not of Christ—no matter how religious it may appear—will ultimately be dissolved. What will stand is what was born of the Spirit and centered on Christ. This devotion turns our gaze inward, asking: Are we a place where He delights to dwell?

Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture

I do not dwell in what human hands have crafted. I do not inhabit stone or wood or glass. I have chosen you, My beloved, as My temple. You are not simply visiting a sacred place—you are the sacred place, for I live within you.

You need not strive to impress Me with outward reverence or religious form. My presence does not come and go based on architecture or atmosphere. I am near because I have made My home in your spirit. You were once far off, but now in Christ Jesus, you have been brought near by His blood. The veil was torn, and My Spirit entered the holy of holies within your heart.

Let go of every illusion that My presence is tied to tradition. I am not waiting for you in stained glass. I am not cloistered behind pulpits or platforms. I am alive in you, expressing Myself through your yielded spirit. You are My dwelling—built not by hands, but by grace, through the eternal work of Christ.

When others seek Me in places, let them find Me in you. When you gather with others, let it not be for the sake of the place, but for the pleasure of My presence. Where two or three are gathered in My name, there I am—because I am already in each one. My house is not defined by walls, but by those who abide in Me and I in them.

So today, do not revere a location. Rejoice in a Person. You have Christ, and Christ has you. And that is the sanctuary I have always longed for.

Scripture References:
Acts 7:48; Ephesians 2:13, 19–22; John 14:23; Hebrews 9:11; Colossians 1:27; John 4:21–24; Matthew 18:20; 1 Corinthians 3:16–17; 2 Corinthians 6:16; Revelation 21:22

Real-Life Analogy

Imagine someone buying a gorgeous music box and setting it on the shelf just to admire it. It’s polished, ornate, and perfectly crafted—but unless it’s opened and the key is turned, there is no melody. Its beauty might catch the eye, but its purpose is fulfilled only when its music fills the room.

In the same way, our buildings and gatherings might appear reverent and beautiful, but if the indwelling Christ is not welcomed, there is no Life in them. God is not looking for polished exteriors. He is listening for the melody of hearts that yield to His presence.

So, today, if you find yourself in a place that feels sacred, pause and ask—not “Is this a holy place?” but rather, “Am I offering Christ a place to express His Life right now?” Whether you're driving, walking into a workplace, or talking with your family, whisper within: Lord, I trust You to express Your life in and through me here. This moment, this place—it becomes sacred because You are present.

Prayer of Confidence

Father, thank You that I no longer need to search for sacred places, because You have made me sacred by Your indwelling. Christ is in me, and You are pleased to dwell there. I rejoice that no building, ritual, or tradition is needed to draw near to You—for You have drawn near to me in Christ. Today, wherever I go, You go with me. I trust You to live Your Life through me. Let the world see not a structure or system, but Your presence alive in me.