I was sitting in a small chapel this morning.
A memorial service for a loved one of someone I know. As I beheld the seemingly aged beauty of the sanctuary, I paused to remember all the varied houses of worship I have been in.
All those buildings, services and host of people who believe in Christ. Each built with purpose.
Even the first permanent structure in the OT built by Solomon.
He shall build an house for my name… (II Samuel 7:13)
Notice. The house was built for the name of God. Not for our comfort, or even for astethics. It was built for Him, but it had a limited use. It was not open to everyone.
Houses of worship since the time of the New Testament have had an added benefit. No longer was it limited to only a few, it was now open to all. Each house proclaims Jesus as savior.
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
The house should lead people to salvation. And it will if the house is built for his name.