2:22 In whom ye also. The Ephesian Christians.
Are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. The Shekinah descended and dwelt in the tabernacle between the cherubim (Ex 25:22); but God, by means of the Spirit, dwells in the spiritual temple, in the hearts of believers. This temple is composed of living stones, has a holy priesthood, and spiritual sacrifices (1Pe 2:5).
2:19-22 The church is compared to a city, and every converted sinner is free of it. It is also compared to a house, and every converted sinner is one of the family; a servant, and a child in God's house. The church is also compared to a building, founded on the doctrine of Christ; delivered by the prophets of the Old Testament, and the apostles of the New. God dwells in all believers now; they become the temple of God through the working of the blessed Spirit. Let us then ask if our hopes are fixed on Christ, according to the doctrine of his word? Have we devoted ourselves as holy temples to God through him? Are we habitations of God by the Spirit, are we spiritually-minded, and do we bring forth the fruits of the Spirit? Let us take heed not to grieve the holy Comforter. Let us desire his gracious presence, and his influences upon our hearts. Let us seek to discharge the duties allotted to us, to the glory of God.
