Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi Urges Christians to Rebuild the True Temple of Christ — Homily for 33rd Sunday, Year C (Nov. 16, 2025)

A Call to Wakefulness, Holiness, and Perseverance

In a powerful and deeply reflective homily delivered on the 33rd Sunday of the Year C, Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi, the Dean of Priests in Ife Deanery under the Osogbo Catholic Diocese and Parish Priest of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Pro-Cathedral, Lagere, Ile-Ife, called on Christians to prepare themselves spiritually, live responsibly, and remain faithful despite the trials of life.

Throughout the message, Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi anchored his preaching on the day’s readings: Malachi 4:1–2a, 2 Thessalonians 3:7–12, and Luke 21:5–19, weaving them into a compelling reflection that resonated deeply with worshippers. As Akahi News gathered, the homily centred on preparedness, moral discipline, and hope.

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Lessons From Malachi: A Coming Day of Accountability

Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi drew attention to the prophecy of Malachi, where the scripture describes a day “burning like an oven,” when the arrogant and evildoers will be completely consumed. The priest noted that Malachi’s message remains relevant today, warning believers against complacency and moral compromise.

According to Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi, the Old Testament prophet reminds Christians that evil has an expiry date, and those who honour God will shine brightly. “A good Christian must be fully prepared,” he emphasised, reminding the faithful that righteousness brings protection and the warmth of God’s healing, as Malachi foretold.

In line with the liturgical reflection, Akahi News learnt that the cleric encouraged Christians to examine the “temples” they have erected within themselves—temples of pride, immorality, greed, and anger—and destroy them before the Day of the Lord arrives.

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Paul’s Warning Against Laziness and Spiritual Irresponsibility

Drawing from 2 Thessalonians 3:7–12, Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi explained how the Thessalonians had stopped working because they believed the Lord’s coming was near. This, according to the priest, mirrors the attitude of many Christians who live irresponsibly while claiming to “wait for God.”

Quoting St. Paul’s admonition that “those who will not work should not eat,” Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi condemned the rising culture of idleness, entitlement, and spiritual laziness.

He stressed that Paul himself worked tirelessly while preaching, demonstrating that Christian life demands discipline, hard work, and accountability.

According to Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi, “We must be men and women of hope, but hope without responsible living is empty.”
Akahi News gathered that the priest urged Christians not to use the Second Coming as an excuse for irresponsibility but to embrace diligence in both spiritual and earthly responsibilities.

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Gospel of Luke: Persecution, Fidelity, and Divine Wisdom

Reflecting on Luke 21:5–19, Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi warned the faithful about the danger of being led astray by false teachings, fear, and spiritual distractions.

Jesus’ prophecy about the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple served as a strong reminder. The priest noted that although people admired the outward beauty of the temple, their hearts were far from God. This, he said, is still happening today.

“How many temples have you built in your life against the knowledge of God?”

Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi asked the congregation this thought-provoking question, highlighting temples such as immorality, hatred, greed, and disobedience.

He reminded worshippers that just as Christ rebuilt the true temple in three days after His Passion, Christians must rebuild the temple of Christ within their hearts.

The cleric emphasised Christ’s promise: “I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist.”
According to Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi, this divine assurance should give believers the courage to withstand persecution, hardship, and trials.

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A Charge to Christians: Prepare, Persevere, and Rebuild

Throughout the homily, Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi repeatedly charged Christians to:

• Prepare themselves spiritually every day, not only during crises
• Destroy the inner temples of sin, just as the old Jerusalem temple fell
• Rebuild their lives on Christ the Cornerstone, following Jesus’ example
• Work hard and avoid spiritual or physical laziness, as St. Paul taught
• Remain hopeful and steadfast, even in trials or persecution

The priest noted that Christianity is not merely about expectation of Christ’s return but about active daily living that reflects the gospel.

According to Akahi News, Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi concluded by urging the faithful to live “lives pleasing to God,” assuring them that those who remain steadfast will receive unfailing wisdom from the Holy Spirit.

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Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi’s homily for the 33rd Sunday of Year C stands as a strong reminder that Christianity requires vigilance, moral discipline, responsible living, and unwavering hope. As the liturgical year draws to its close, his message echoes the call of the Scriptures: prepare, persevere, and rebuild your inner temple for Christ.

For more spiritually enriching reflections and national updates, stay connected with Akahi News.

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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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