In what ways can we build on the foundation of Christ daily? The Foundation We Start From • “For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 3:11). • Our spiritual house rests on the finished work of Jesus—His sinless life, atoning death, and bodily resurrection. • A secure foundation means we never try to earn salvation; instead, we build on the salvation already given. Why Daily Building Matters • “If what he has built survives, he will receive a reward” (1 Corinthians 3:14). • Every choice, word, and deed adds either lasting or combustible material to the structure of our lives. • The coming “Day” (v. 13) will test our work with fire; what endures brings eternal reward. Materials That Withstand the Fire Scripture pictures durable materials as gold, silver, and precious stones. They correspond to: • Obedience rooted in love (John 14:15). • Faith expressed through good works (James 2:17). • Truth embraced and defended (2 Timothy 2:15). • Christlike character produced by the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Daily Practices That Add Gold and Silver Cultivate these habits to build what lasts: • Time in the Word – Meditate on, memorize, and obey Scripture (Psalm 119:11; Colossians 3:16). • Prayerful Dependence – “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17), inviting the Spirit to align motives and actions with Christ. • Active Love – Serve family, church, and neighbors tangibly (Galatians 6:10). – Forgive quickly, mirroring God’s forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32). • Gospel Witness – Share the good news in word and deed (Matthew 28:19-20; Romans 1:16). • Fellowship and Accountability – Meet regularly with believers for encouragement and correction (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Stewardship – Use money, time, and abilities for kingdom purposes (Matthew 6:19-21; 1 Peter 4:10). • Perseverance in Trials – View hardships as opportunities for refinement (James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:6-7). Watch Out for Wood, Hay, and Straw These lighter materials symbolize works that appear impressive but lack eternal value: • Self-promotion over Christ-exaltation. • Religious activity without love or faith. • Compromise with cultural values that contradict Scripture. • Neglect of personal holiness. • Grudges, gossip, and divisive speech. A Life That Will Survive the Fire • Building on Christ daily is not drudgery but partnership with the Master Builder (Philippians 2:12-13). • “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Keep laying bricks of obedient faith. When the fire of judgment comes, what remains will shine to the glory of God—and the reward will be worth every effort. |
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