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I. THE APOSTLE'S DESCRIPTION OF THE CHURCH. "Ye are God's building." This building —

1. Has a proprietor. God is the proprietor of the site (the world), of the foundation (Christ), of the materials (sinners), of the builders (ministers), of its privileges here, and its ultimate glory in heaven.

2. Has an architect. Infinite wisdom and power. Before this building was commenced there was intention; it is the result of design.

3. Has a good foundation. Christ, called a "stone," to convey the idea of stability and durability; and a tried stone," to indicate that it is completely adapted to answer the purpose for which it is laid; "a sure foundation," because no attacks of its enemies, no revolutions of time, no concussions of earth will ever shake or destroy it.

4. Has a grand superstructure. It is composed of materials properly fitted, to occupy a place in the building (1 Peter 2:5). The stones once had no connection with the building, deeply imbedded in nature's quarry of guilt; but by the hammer of God's Word and the energy of the Spirit, they have been detached from the rock, brought from darkness to light, &c. By regeneration, by sanctification, they are fitted for a position in the temple.

5. Has workmen — ministers, all Christian workers, missionaries.

6. Has perfect beauty (Psalm 48.; Song of Solomon 6:4). See the polished stones, bearing the inscription of "Holiness to the Lord." See their love, union, benevolence. They are adorned with the righteousness of Christ, and bear the image of God.

II. THE SPECIAL DESIGN OF THE ERECTION.

1. Magnificent. It is "a habitation for God." What a glorious inhabitant! "God is known in her palaces for a refuge." "Behold the heaven of heavens," &c.

2. Gracious (Isaiah 66:1). "The Lord loveth the gates of Zion."

III. THE BLESSEDNESS OF BEING A PART OF HIS BUILDING.

1. It is honourable. It is the most glorious building that ever was erected. It is to be allied to the glorious Proprietor Himself.

2. It is advantageous. The state of a person is decided; he has realised the Divine power by which he has been fitted into the temple of God. This produces peace, contentment, joy, hope. He has an interest in all the promises and privileges of this house, and is a participant of all its provisions.

3. It is a state of safety. The Proprietor will never suffer this building to be destroyed. He ever watches over and defends it; He is a wall of fire round about it, angels minister to it, all the attributes of God are pledged for its security.

(Homilist.)

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KJV: For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.

WEB: For we are God's fellow workers. You are God's farming, God's building.