What does the Bible say about the church being God's chosen dwelling?

Scripture explicitly states that the Lord has chosen Zion, desiring it as His habitation and declaring it to be His eternal rest (Psalm 132:13-14). This choice reflects God's sovereign will in establishing a place where He dwells among His people. Zion symbolizes the church, not merely in a physical sense but also spiritually, representing the gathering of God's people who are united in Christ. According to the New Testament, believers are the living stones that constitute this spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5), signifying that His presence is with His people as they gather in worship and fellowship.