We all know how important foundations are. Without a strong one, even the most beautiful house will eventually crumble. The same is true of our spiritual lives. In 1 Corinthians 3, Paul challenges the church at Corinth to examine what they’re building their lives on—Christ’s foundation or worldly wisdom. His words are just as relevant today as they were two thousand years ago.
Growing Beyond Spiritual Infancy
Paul begins with a diagnosis: the Corinthians are spiritually immature. He tells them they are still drinking “milk” when they should be ready for “solid food.” Their jealousy, arguments, and divisions revealed that they were living more like the world than like Spiritfilled followers of Christ.
Spiritual growth isn’t optional—it’s a calling. Just as children must eventually grow up, believers are called to grow into maturity, reflecting Christ more fully. Staying in spiritual infancy means missing out on the depth and richness of life in the Spirit.
So the question for us today is simple: are we growing, or are we stuck? Each of us can take time this week to reflect on areas of immaturity and ask God to help us take steps toward maturity in Him.
Building with Lasting Materials
Paul then shifts the focus to unity and God’s work. He reminds the church that ministry is not about personalities—whether Paul, Apollos, or anyone else—but about God, who alone gives growth. We are God’s coworkers, and everything we do should be built on the only true foundation: Jesus Christ.
But Paul warns us to consider what we’re building with. Some build with gold, silver, and precious stones—things of eternal value. Others build with wood, hay, or straw—things that will not last. On the day of judgment, our work will be tested by fire. What is done in faith, obedience, and love will endure. What is done for self or worldly gain will burn away.
This challenges us to think carefully: are we investing in what will last for eternity, or are we settling for what is temporary?
Living as God’s Temple
Perhaps the most sobering reminder in this chapter is Paul’s declaration: “You are God’s temple, and the Spirit of God dwells in you.” What an incredible truth! Our lives are not just our own—they are sacred spaces where God’s presence dwells.
This means we cannot take holiness lightly. Defiling God’s temple—through sin, carelessness, or compromise – has consequences. Instead, we are called to live in surrender to the Spirit, reflecting God’s holiness in our daily choices, thoughts, and actions.When we remember who we belong to, it changes how we live. God has set us apart as His dwelling place, and that reality should shape every part of our lives.
Conclusion: Build Wisely, Live Fully
Paul’s words leave us with some big questions: Are we growing into maturity, or are we stuck in spiritual infancy? Are we building our lives on Christ with materials that last? Are we living as holy temples that reflect God’s glory?
The good news is this: in Christ, all things are ours. We don’t build alone—we build with His grace and strength. This week, take a step toward maturity, look for ways to build unity in your community, and recommit yourself as a temple where God’s Spirit is honored. When we build on the right foundation, we can be confident that our lives will endure and bring glory to God.
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