Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the concept of a "deep laid foundation" is often used metaphorically to describe the strength, stability, and enduring nature of one's faith, life, or spiritual understanding. The imagery of a well-established foundation is prevalent throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of building one's life on solid, unshakeable principles.Old Testament References The Old Testament frequently uses the imagery of foundations to convey the idea of security and permanence. In Isaiah 28:16 , the prophet declares, "So this is what the Lord GOD says: 'See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; the one who believes will never be shaken.'" This passage highlights the Messiah as the cornerstone, a foundation that is both tested and precious, ensuring that those who trust in Him will remain steadfast. The Psalms also reflect on the theme of foundations. Psalm 11:3 poses the question, "When the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?" This rhetorical question underscores the necessity of a strong foundation for the righteous to withstand adversity and maintain their integrity. New Testament References In the New Testament, Jesus Christ frequently uses the metaphor of a foundation to teach about the Kingdom of God and the life of faith. In Matthew 7:24-25 , Jesus states, "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock." Here, the "rock" symbolizes the teachings of Christ, and the deep-laid foundation represents a life built on obedience to His words. The Apostle Paul also employs this metaphor in his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 3:11 , he writes, "For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ." Paul emphasizes that Christ Himself is the ultimate foundation upon which believers must build their lives, ensuring spiritual stability and growth. Theological Implications Theologically, the concept of a deep-laid foundation is integral to understanding the Christian life. It signifies the necessity of grounding one's faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ. A deep foundation implies a thorough understanding and acceptance of biblical truths, leading to a life that can withstand trials and tribulations. The deep-laid foundation also speaks to the process of spiritual formation. Just as a physical foundation requires time, effort, and precision to construct, so too does the spiritual foundation of a believer. This involves diligent study of Scripture, prayer, and active participation in the life of the church. Practical Applications For believers, the call to lay a deep foundation is a call to intentional discipleship. It involves prioritizing spiritual disciplines and seeking to understand the depths of God's Word. In a world where shifting sands of cultural and moral relativism abound, a deep-laid foundation provides the necessary stability to remain faithful to the teachings of Christ. Moreover, this concept encourages believers to examine the foundations of their own lives. Are they built on the transient values of the world, or on the eternal truths of Scripture? The strength and depth of one's foundation will ultimately determine their ability to endure life's challenges and remain faithful to their calling in Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 6:48He is like a man which built an house, and dig deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently on that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded on a rock. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Foundation of God Living Stones on the Living Foundation Stone Foundation. 11S. How Firm a Foundation. Can. Hym'l No. 51. On Laying the Foundation of the New Chapel, Near the City-Road ... The Sermon on the Mount. A Triplet of Graces The Foundation of the House of St. Joseph. The Observation of Holy ... How Firm a Foundation, Ye Saints of the Lord The Foundation of the Church among the Jews Resources What is the Urantia book? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus and believers are living stones in 1 Peter 2:4-5? | GotQuestions.org What is the origin of Christianity? | GotQuestions.org Foundation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Foundation: Decrees and Purposes of God Foundation: Doctrines of the Apostles Foundation: Figuratively Applied to Kingdoms Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Earth Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Heavens Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Mountains Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Ocean Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The World Foundation: First Principles of the Gospel Foundation: Joined Together by Corner Stones Foundation: Security Afforded By Foundation: Security of Saints' Inheritance Foundation: The Lowest Part of a Building, and on Which It Rests Related Terms Foundation-stone (1 Occurrence) |
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