Is Orthodoxy Looking Forward to the Rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem?
By: Bishop Stephen Introduction: A Popular Question in Modern Christianity Among many contemporary Christians, particularly those influenced by Dispensationalism and Christian Zionism, there exists great interest in the rebuilding of a Jewish Temple in Jerusalem. News reports concerning the Temple Mount, discussions about priestly preparations, and political developments in Israel are often interpreted as signs that biblical prophecy is nearing fulfillment. For some Christians, the reconstruction of the Temple is viewed not merely as a possibility but as a theological necessity. Entire systems of prophecy are built around the expectation that a Third Temple must arise before Christ returns. But does the Orthodox Church share this expectation? Is Orthodoxy looking forward to the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem? The answer requires careful distinction. The Orthodox Church recognizes that a future temple may indeed be constructed. Certain Fathers interpreted biblical passages as sug...