Building on the Foundation: A Study of 1 Corinthians 3:10-23
A study of 1 Corinthians 3:10-23, focusing on the foundation of faith, the importance of spiritual growth, and the nature of true wisdom.
1. The Foundation of Faith
1.1 The Foundation Laid
Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:10
- Paul laid the foundation of the gospel message.
- Each believer has a responsibility to build upon that foundation carefully.
1.2 The Only Foundation
Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:11
- The foundation is Jesus Christ.
- No other foundation is acceptable.
2. Building on the Foundation
2.1 The Quality of Our Work
Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:12
- Building with gold, silver, and precious stones represents lasting spiritual work.
- Building with wood, hay, and straw represents temporary, superficial work.
2.2 The Test of Fire
Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:13
- Our works will be tested by fire.
- Only what is built on the true foundation with quality materials will endure.
2.3 Rewards and Loss
Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:14-15
- Those whose work endures will receive a reward.
- Those whose work is burned will suffer loss, though they themselves may be saved.
3. The Temple of God
3.1 The Temple of the Spirit
Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:16
- Believers are the temple of the Spirit.
- The Spirit dwells within us.
3.2 Holiness and Destruction
Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:17
- Defiling the temple brings destruction.
- We must live holy lives, honoring the Spirit within us.
4. True Wisdom vs. Worldly Wisdom
4.1 Foolish Wisdom
Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:18-19
- The wisdom of this world is foolishness to God.
- True wisdom comes from God.
4.2 The Futility of Human Wisdom
Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:20
- The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise are futile.
- We should not rely on our own understanding.
5. Belonging to Christ
5.1 All Things Are Yours
Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:21-22
- All things are ours through Christ.
- This includes teachers, the world, life, and death.
5.2 Belonging to Christ
Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:23
- We belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God.
- We are united with Him.