3 Bible Tips: Strong Pillars
The Greek word stulos means "a column supporting the weight of a building," but the New Testament also uses it metaphorically of strength, responsibility and a firm and permanent position (Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, 1985, "pillar").
1. The Church is a pillar and support of God's truth.
"I am writing these things to you now, even though I hope to be with you soon, so that if I can't come for a while, you will know how people must conduct themselves in the household of God. This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and support of the truth" (1 Timothy 3:14-15, New Living Translation).
2. Leaders in the Church are to be pillars.
"In fact, James, Peter, and John, who were known as pillars of the church, recognized the gift God had given me, and they accepted Barnabas and me as their co-workers. They encouraged us to keep preaching to the Gentiles, while they continued their work with the Jews" (Galatians 2:9, NLT).
3. Jesus Christ will reward faithful Christians by making them pillars in God's living temple.
"All who are victorious will become pillars in the Temple of my God, and they will never have to leave it. And I will write my God's name on them, and they will be citizens in the city of my God—the new Jerusalem that comes down from heaven from my God. And they will have my new name inscribed upon them" (Revelation 3:12, NLT).
For more about prophecies and rewards for God's Church, see God's Church in Prophecy from the booklet The Book of Revelation Unveiled.