The Building of God's Church as Seen in 1 Corinthians 3:10-14: 'Master Builder VS Blueprint VS Foundation VS Materials VS Test'

 

 

Concept

Description

Explanation

Example

Scripture

Master Builder

Person responsible

for building

Apostles and preachers play a key role in building the church as God's co-workers

Paul refers to himself as a "wise master builder"

1 Cor 3:10a "By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder..."

Blueprint

Plan and design

for building

God's will and plan for the church, guiding the entire building process

Grace and revelation given by God

1 Cor 3:10b "...by the grace God has given me..."

Foundation

Base of the building

Jesus Christ is the only foundation; all building must be upon Him

Paul claims to have laid the foundation, which is Jesus Christ

1 Cor 3:11 "For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ."

Materials

Things used

 for building

Believers' work, teachings, and way of life are materials for building the church

Gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw

1 Cor 3:12 "If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw..."

Test

Examination

of the work

God will test each person's work to reveal its quality

 

 

Test by fire

1 Cor 3:13-14 "Their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person's work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward."

 

Explanation:

  1. 1. Master Builder: Paul compares himself to a "wise master builder," emphasizing that leaders need wisdom and skill to guide the building process of God's church.
  2. 2. Blueprint: Although the term "blueprint" is not directly mentioned, the phrase "by the grace God has given me" implies that the building is done according to God's plan and instructions. This "grace" includes God's revelation and guidance for building the church.
  3. 3. Foundation: Jesus Christ is the only foundation of the church, emphasizing Christ's central role in the church. All teaching and practice should be centered on Him.
  4. 4. Materials: Different materials represent different qualities of work and teaching. Gold, silver, and costly stones represent work of eternal value; wood, hay, and straw represent work that may not withstand testing.
  5. 5. Test: Everyone's work will ultimately be tested by God. This test is likened to fire, which will reveal the true nature and value of each person's work.

 

Practical Application:

  1. * Church leaders should recognize their important responsibility as "master builders" and carefully lead and build the church.
  2. * All those involved in building should seek to understand God's blueprint, ensuring our work aligns with God's will.
  3. * All teaching and practice should be Christ-centered, ensuring we build on the correct foundation.
  4. * Believers should strive to build with "gold, silver, and costly stones," pursuing ministries and lifestyles of eternal value.
  5. * We should regularly examine our work and service, ensuring they can withstand God's test.

 

This passage reminds us that in participating in the building of God's kingdom, we need to focus on multiple aspects: following God's blueprint (His will), building on the correct foundation (Christ), using quality materials (work of eternal value), and always remembering that our work will ultimately be tested by God. This encourages us to view our earthly service and life from an eternal perspective.

 

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