Transformed by Truth: Building on a Firm Foundation
1 Corinthians 3:10-11 (NLT): "Because of God’s grace to me, I have laid the foundation like an expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ."
Introduction:
Today, we delve into a passage from 1 Corinthians that speaks about the importance of building our lives on a solid foundation. The Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of a builder to convey a powerful truth about our faith and the centrality of Jesus Christ. Our sermon today will focus on three key points: the Foundation, the Builders, and the Building Process.
I. The Foundation
1 Corinthians 3:10-11 (NLT): "Because of God’s grace to me, I have laid the foundation like an expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ."
Paul emphasizes that the only true foundation for our faith is Jesus Christ. The term "foundation" (Greek: ?eµ?????, themelios) signifies something that is stable and secure, essential for any structure.
Isaiah 28:16 (NLT): "Therefore, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: 'Look! I am placing a foundation stone in Jerusalem, a firm and tested stone. It is a precious cornerstone that is safe to build on. Whoever believes need never be shaken.'"
In Isaiah, the "foundation stone" refers prophetically to the Messiah, Jesus Christ, as the cornerstone of our faith. The Hebrew term for "cornerstone" (????? ???????, eben yiqrah) indicates something that is firm, precious, and crucial for the structure's integrity.
Our lives must be firmly built on the foundation of Jesus Christ. This means aligning our beliefs, values, and actions with His teachings and example. Anything built on a different foundation will ultimately fail.
Think of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Its flawed foundation causes it to tilt precariously. In contrast, buildings with solid foundations stand the test of time. Similarly, our faith, built on Christ, remains steadfast amidst life's trials.
II. The Builders
1 Corinthians 3:10 (NLT): "Because of God’s grace to me, I have laid the foundation like an expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful."
Paul acknowledges that different people contribute to building the church and individual lives. Each builder must be careful to ensure their work aligns with the foundation laid by Christ.
Ephesians 2:19-20 (NLT): "So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself."
Paul explains that the church is built upon the teachings of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus as the cornerstone. The Greek term for "cornerstone" (????????a???, akrogoniaios) highlights Jesus' crucial role in the stability and unity of the church.
As builders, we must be diligent and faithful in our contributions to God's work. Whether through teaching, serving, or leading, our efforts must reflect the principles of Christ and the apostles.
Consider a team constructing a skyscraper. Each worker's role, from architect to bricklayer, is vital for the building's success. Similarly, in God's kingdom, every believer's role is important and must align with the foundation of Christ.
III. The Building Process
1 Corinthians 3:10-11 (NLT): "But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ."
Building on the foundation of Christ requires careful and intentional effort. This process involves spiritual growth, discipleship, and adherence to biblical truth.
Colossians 2:6-7 (NLT): "And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness."
Paul urges the Colossians to deepen their relationship with Christ. The Greek word for "built" (?p????d?µ??, epoikodomeo) means to build upon or establish, emphasizing the ongoing nature of spiritual development.
We must continuously build our lives on Christ through prayer, studying Scripture, and living out our faith. This ongoing process strengthens our spiritual foundation and helps us to withstand challenges.
Think of a gardener tending to a tree. The gardener waters, prunes, and cares for the tree to ensure its growth and stability. Similarly, we must nurture our spiritual lives to remain firmly rooted in Christ.
Conclusion:
In summary, let us remember:
Foundation: Jesus Christ is the only true foundation for our lives.
Builders: We must be careful and faithful builders, contributing to God's kingdom.
Building Process: Building on Christ requires ongoing spiritual growth and commitment.
Final Encouragement and Call to Action:
This week, I encourage you to:
Examine your foundation—ensure that your life is truly built on Jesus Christ.
Evaluate your contributions—consider how you are building upon the foundation in your family, church, and community.
Commit to growth—dedicate yourself to deepening your relationship with Christ and building a life that honours Him.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the solid foundation of Jesus Christ. Help us to be diligent builders, contributing faithfully to Your kingdom. Guide us in our spiritual growth, that we may build lives that reflect Your glory. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Go forth this week, transformed by the truth of God’s word, building your life on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ, and contributing to His kingdom with diligence and faithfulness.
